MM all! I know I haven't posted much. My desktop PC died, so now I have to use my laptop until I can afford a new system board, and frankly, my laptop irritates me. I only use it under duress.

I was wondering if anyone could suggest a suitable substitute for rosemary for topical applications. I can ingest rosemary, but if I put it on my skin (like in a purification bath), I get enormous red hives that burn. I can't mix a facial astringent with it, use it in my shampoo, nothing where it touches my skin. I don't know why I can eat it with no adverse affects, but I can. So many purification formulas call for rosemary, and I'm frustrated.

Any ideas you would be willing to share would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Hi Flame,

To be on the safe side, I would speak with a dermatologist. There are many essential oils that applied topically will cause skin irritation....it is up to you and your docotr to determine which are safe for you. Rosemary can be quite dangerous if you are pregnant or nursing as well....and I would rather be safe than sorry.

I am sure you could get a good diagnosis and some wonderful substitutions by speaking to a dermatologisy and possibly a nutritionist as well...

I wish you well in your journey, and please let us know what you discover...it may help others in a similar situation.

Blessings Bright and Dark,

Thank you Lady Elaine:) After consulting Cunningham's Encyclopedia, I've opted to substitute bay in any topically applied ritual baths, oils, etc. Bay, like rosemary, has the qualities of Masculine/Sun/Fire, and the added bonus of not causing me to break out in giant hives