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Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is from the Latin ros maris, which means dew of the sea
in reference to its preference for growing along the seashore. The Spanish called the plant
Romero (the Pilgrim’s Flower) in honor of Mary as it was believed she took refuge under a large
rosemary bush to shelter herself and her young son in their flight to Egypt when escaping King
Herod. The plant came to be known as Rose of Mary and eventually shortened to Rosemary.
The Ancients were well acquainted with the shrub, which had a reputation for strengthening the
memory. Greek and Roman students would braid rosemary into their hair or wore garlands of
rosemary on their heads to increase their learning when studying and to help improve recall
while taking exams.
Rosemary is a universal symbol of remembrance used to honor those who have passed on.
At funerals, rosemary was distributed to mourners as they processioned to the grave where the
herb was laid across the coffin or upon the tombstone. This tradition dates back to ancient Egypt
and continued well into the medieval period and beyond.
Sprigs of rosemary were a symbolic part of Anzac Day, celebrated in Australia in
remembrance of family ancestors.
Shakespeare made reference to rosemary in his writings. From Hamlet: "There's rosemary;
that's for remembrance. Pray, love, remember." And in the most tragic scene of Romeo and
Juliet, Shakespeare’s Juliet was bestowed with rosemary upon her untimely death. (Herbco.com)
Because of rosemary’s strong association with marriage as well as its aromatic essence, it
was traditional for brides to carry sprigs of Rosemary in wedding bouquets or entwined in a
scented wreath worn by the bride. The wreath symbolized fidelity, love, abiding friendship and
remembrance of the life the woman had prior to her marriage. Anne of Cleves, the fourth wife of
Henry VIII of England in 1540, was believed to have worn such a wreath at her wedding. A
gilded rosemary branch tied with silk ribbons of many colors, was also presented to wedding
guests, as a symbol of love and loyalty. (Grieves 682) This reputation has earned the herb a
place among traditional wedding herbs used in the bride’s bouquet, headpiece, and dress. It was
also once common to add rosemary to the couple’s wine to help them remember their sacred
vows to each other.
In his 1607 sermon on A Marriage Present, Doctor of Divinity, Roger Hacket conveyed his
praise of rosemary:
Speaking of the powers of rosemary, it overtoppeth all the flowers in the garden, boasting
man's rule. It helpeth the brain, strengtheneth the memorie, and is very medicinable for the
head. Another property of the rosemary is, it affects the heart. Let this rosmarinus, this
flower of men ensigne of your wisdom, love and loyaltie, be carried not only in your hands,
but in your hearts and heads. (Grieves 682)
In centuries past, rosemary was burned to clear the air of infectious disease during the
various plagues of Europe. The ancient Egyptians used Rosemary in making incense for the
purpose of cleansing and healing. One custom was to burn rosemary with juniper berries to
purify the air in sick chambers and to prevent infection. It has also been burned for purification
in religious ceremonies.
Both the Greeks and the Romans regarded Rosemary as a sacred herb and decorated statues
with wreaths of Rosemary. During the Middle Ages, rosemary was thought to be capable of
dispelling negativity and promoting prosperity. It was tucked under pillows to stave off
nightmares and evil spirits. Both in Spain and Italy, it has been considered a safeguard from
witches and evil influences in general.
Because of its stimulating effect, rosemary has traditionally been used in hair lotions to
prevent dandruff and premature baldness. The oil is also used externally as a rubefacient and
fragrant stimulant. It was considered very efficacious against gout in the hands and feet when
massaged into them.
Internally, rosemary was historically used as a cure for poor digestion, migraine, joint
disorders and muscle aches. There is a legend that Queen Elizabeth of Hungary was cured of
paralysis when she sipped a concoction of rosemary to ease her painful joints. This formula came
to be known as Hungary Water. The ancient recipe was prepared with fresh Rosemary tops (in
full flower) combined with grain alcohol that stood for four days and was then distilled. The
formula, dated 1235, believed to be in the handwriting of Queen Elizabeth and preserved in
Vienna. (Botanical.com)
Another Queen of Hungary recipe has been handed down that was created for the aging
Queen of Hungary by an alchemist in the 1300’s to restore her youthfulness. According to the
legend, it reversed her appearance so much that the 25-year old Grand-Duke of Lithuania asked
for her hand in marriage when she was 70. Others believe the formula was created and marketed
by early Gypsies as a cure-all for a myriad of cosmetic and medical uses.
In early times, rosemary was freely cultivated in kitchen gardens and it was believed that
that rosemary would flourish when the woman was the dominant influence of the household.
This however prompted some husbands to pluck the plant from the ground so that his authority
would not be challenged. As a result, the belief lost its popularity by the end of the 15th century.
Miss Rohde’s in Banckes' Herbal (originally published in 1912), summarizes a diversity
of ancient uses for the humble rosemary plant:
Take the flowers thereof and make powder thereof and binde it to thy right arme in a linnen
cloath and it shale make theee light and merrie.
Take the flowers and put them in thy chest among thy clothes or among thy Bookes and
Mothes shall not destroy them.
Boyle the leaves in white wine and washe thy face therewith and thy browes, and thou shalt
have a faire face.
Also put the leaves under thy bedde and thou shalt be delivered of all evill dreames.
Take the leaves and put them into wine and it shall keep the wine from all sourness and
evill savours, and if thou wilt sell thy wine thou shalt have goode speede.
Also if thou be feeble boyle the leaves in cleane water and washe thyself and thou shalt
wax shiny.
Also if thou have lost appetite of eating boyle well these leaves in cleane water and when
the water is colde put thereunto as much of white wine and then make sops, eat them
thereof wel and thou shalt restore thy appetite againe.
If thy legges be blowen with gowte, boyle the leaves in water and binde them in a linnen
cloath and winde it about thy legges and it shall do thee much good.
If thou have a cough drink the water of the leaves boyld in white wine and ye shall be
whole.
Take the Timber thereof and burn it to coales and make powder thereof and rubbe thy teeth
thereof and it shall keep thy teeth from all evils. Smell it oft and it shall keep thee youngly.
Also if a man have lost his smellyng of the ayre that he may not draw his breath, make a
fire of the wood, and bake his bread therewith, eate it and it shall keepe him well.
Make thee a box of the wood of rosemary and smell to it and it shall preserve thy youth.
(Grieve 682)
Scientific name: Rosmarinus officinalis L.
Common name: Rosemary
Other names: Rosemarine, Rusmary, incensier and garden rosemary
Class: Equisetopsida
Subclass: Magnoliidae
Superorder: Asteranae
Order: Lamiales
Family: Lamiaceae
Genus: Rosmarinus
Part Used: Entire plant—the leaves, flowers, stems, branches and essential oil
Action: Encephalic tonic
Rosemary is an evergreen bush or shrub with spiky, silver-green leaves that are green on
top and gray-green and downy underneath. The dried herb is brownish green in color. The petite,
pale blue nettle-shaped flowers appear from May to June and are a great attraction to bees. It
grows up to six feet in height in warmer climates but no more than four feet in cooler climates.
Rosemary is a highly aromatic herb. Much of the active volatile principle resides in the calyces.
There are many cultivated species of Rosemary. For medicinal and culinary purposes the
traditional Rosmarinus officinalis is the most valued species of Rosemary.
Rosemary thrives in a warm sunny climate is often found growing wild near the seashore in
the Mediterranean region, which explains its Latin name Rosmarinus, which translates as dew of
the sea. It is native to Asia Minor and southern Europe (particularly the Mediterranean region)
and is now cultivated in California, Russia, Morocco, China and the Middle East.
Rosemary prefers a sheltered spot with well-drained soil with a high concentration of
limestone (high pH). The best way to propagate rosemary is either by cuttings or from layering.
The young plant should be kept moist but not too wet as the roots easily rot. The new plants
should be transplanted in the early autumn to allow them to harden off before the winter. They
may need to be protected with straw where winter conditions are severe. Once established,
rosemary bushes do not like to be moved. Rosemary can last for about 30 years if its location is
suitable and stable. It only needs trimmed lightly to maintain its thickness.
The chemical constituency of Rosemary includes: caffeic acid and rosmarinic acid, bitter
diterpenes (carnosol, rosmanol) triterpenes (oleanic and ursolic acid), salicylic acid, triterpene
alcohols and flavonoids. The essential oil contained in the plant contains 1,8-cineole, a-pinene,
camphor, b-pinene, borneol, iso-bornyl acetate, limonene, linalool, 3-octanone, terpineol and
verbinol.
Rosemary is a good source of vitamin E (alpha tocopherol) and is exceptionally rich in B-
complex vitamins, such as folic acid, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, riboflavin and high levels of
folates. Folates are important in DNA synthesis and can help prevent neural tube defects in
newborn babies.
Rosemary herb contains very good amounts of vitamin A (97% of RDA per serving). A
few leaves a day in the diet, would contribute enough of this vitamin. Vitamin A is known to
have antioxidant properties and is essential for vision. It is also required for maintaining healthy
mucus membranes and skin. Consumption of natural foods rich in vitamin A is known to help
the body protect from lung and oral cavity cancers.
Fresh rosemary leaves are a good source of the antioxidant vitamin C (37% of RDA). The
vitamin is required for collagen synthesis in the body. Collagen is the main structural protein in
the body required for maintaining the integrity of blood vessels, skin, organs, and bones. Regular
consumption of vitamin C rich foods helps protect the body against infection and boosts
immunity by combating free radical activity.
Rosemary is a rich source of minerals like potassium, calcium, iron, manganese, copper,
and magnesium. Potassium is an important component of cell and body fluids, which helps
control heart rate and blood pressure. Manganese is used by the body as a co-factor for the
antioxidant enzyme, superoxide dismutase.
This herb is an excellent source of iron (83% of RDA). As a component of hemoglobin
inside the red blood cells, iron determines the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.
Rosemary leaves provide just 131 calories per 100 g and contain no cholesterol. Apart from
nutrients, this humble herb contains many noteworthy non-nutrient components such as dietary
fiber (37% of RDA). (Nutrition-and-you.com)
Rosemary yields its virtues partly to water and entirely in alcohol.
The therapeutic properties of rosemary oil are analgesic, antiarthritic, antibacterial,
antidepressant, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-parasitic, antirheumatic,
antiseptic, antispasmodic, antiviral, aphrodisiac, astringent, carminative, cephalic, cholagogue,
cordial, decongestant diaphoretic, digestive, diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, fungicidal
hepatic, hypertensive, nervine, restorative, rubefacient, smooth muscle modulating, stimulant,
stomachic, sudorific, tonic and venotonic, vermifuge and vulnerary.
Brain, mind and Alzheimers: rosemary has had a long-lived reputation for improving
memory and has been traditionally known as the remembrance herb. Evidence suggests that
oxidative damage caused by highly reactive (free radical) oxygen molecules in the body plays a
role in Alzheimer’s disease. The natural acids present in rosemary help protect the body’s cells
and DNA from free radical damage. One particularly potent antioxidant is rosmarinic acid. Some
studies claim that the carnosic acid found in rosemary may also shield the brain from free
radicals and thereby lower the risk of strokes and neurodegenerative diseases, including
Alzheimer's and Lou Gehrig's disease.
Researchers have discovered that certain phytochemicals in the herb prevent the
degradation of acetylcholine, an important brain chemical needed for normal neurotransmission.
A deficiency of this chemical is commonly seen in Alzheimer's patients.
Aromatherapists recommend rosemary oil for treating Alzheimer’s disease (along with oils of
balm, fennel and sage). (Duke) This essential oil helps to clear the mind, sharpen the memory
and boost the central nervous system. The antioxidants in rosemary and its ability to increase
circulation to the head can also help prevent cataracts.
Rosemary has a long tradition as a cerebral tonic and brain stimulant. Rosemary enhances
the cellular uptake of oxygen and, according to some studies, the carnosic acid in the plant may
shield the brain from free radicals. It is effective for those states of debility that involve memory
loss, loss of smell, poor vision and nervous tension. Modern science attributes much of
rosemary's action on the central nervous system to its potent antioxidant, rosmarinic acid.
Depression: Rosemary essential oil is a favorite among aromatherapists for treating
depression. The compound cineole in rosemary has been shown to stimulate the central nervous
system. A few drops of the oil can be massaged into the scalp. Cineole is also a great remedy for
fainting. The essential oil can be inhales (similarly to eucalyptus) or the leaves can be crushed
and held under the nose to inhale. (Duke 159, 195)
Cancer: Rosemary is also being studied for its potential anti-cancer effects. Initial studies
indicate that its compounds inhibit carcinogenic chemicals from binding to cellular DNA.
Several studies done in the last several years show that oil from the leaves of the plant can help
prevent the development of cancerous tumors in laboratory animals. One study, led by Chi-Tang
Ho, Ph.D., professor in the Department of Food Science at Rutgers University in New
Brunswick, New Jersey, showed that applying rosemary oil to the skin of experimental animals
reduced their risk of cancer to half that found in animals that did not receive the application of
oil. In other studies by the same research team, animals whose diets contained some rosemary oil
had about half the incidence of colon cancer or lung cancer compared with animals not eating
rosemary. And researchers at the University of Illinois in Urbana found that rosemary cut by half
the incidence of breast cancer in animals at high risk for developing the disease. Future studies
will demonstrate whether these properties extend to humans as well. (Gardenguides.com)
Hair: Rosemary is one of best hair tonics available. It helps to increase circulation and
stimulates the hair follicles to renewed activity and prevent premature baldness. It also contains
antibacterial and antimicrobial agents that are used to treat a variety of skin disorders, including
dandruff and itchiness. It has been infused into many shampoo products for this purpose.
According to Wilma F. Bergfeld, M.D. of the Cleveland Clinic Foundation in Ohio, massaging
the scalp certainly stimulates circulation and encourages hair growth. (Duke 79)
A few drops of the essential oil can be applied directly to the scalp or hairbrush to restore
dry, flyaway hair and make it shine. Rosemary can be used on a continuing basis for a healthy
scalp that encourages healthy hair growth and slows hair loss. (Anniesremedy.com)
Skin and Anti-Aging: because of its antioxidant properties and stimulating and antiseptic
effects on the skin, rosemary has traditionally been used for anti-aging products. Rosemary’s
tightening effect reduces bloating and puffiness and helps prevent age-related skin damage such
as wrinkles. Rosemary can also stabilize and extend the shelf life of handmade cosmetics,
creams, lotions, and other herbal compounds.
Rosemary makes a great addition to an herbal mouth rinse. It disinfects mouth sores,
stimulates gums and can get rid of halitosis almost immediately after it is taken. It can be
prepared as follows: Heat 1 pint of water. Remove it from the heat and steep with 3 teaspoons of
the dried flowering tops or leaves of rosemary for 30 minutes while covered. Strain and keep it in
the refrigerator. Gargle and rinse the mouth every morning or several times daily.
It is believed that some aromatic spices like sage, peppermint, savory, rosemary and
thyme hold incredible value in sterilizing water that has been contaminated with unfriendly
bacteria. (Herbs2000.com)
Asthma: Rosemary has long been used to clear respiratory congestion, including sinuses and
relieving catarrh and asthma. It contains 19 chemicals with antibacterial action and a number of
volatile oils, which reduce the airway constriction induced by histamine—the chemical culprit of
asthma and other allergy symptoms.
The essential oil can be added to massage oil or lotion and used as a chest rub or vaporized
in a burner to open up the breathing, relax bronchial spasms and calm anxiety during a mild
asthma attack. Regular massage to the neck and shoulder area can help reduce both the number
and severity of asthma attacks. (Stuart 80)
Pain relief: rosemary contains salicylic acid, the forerunner of aspirin, which can bring
quick relief to headaches caused by overwork and nervous tension. Rosemary essential oil has a
head-clearing effect. (Stuart 39) For headaches linked to high blood pressure, combine rosemary
with Lindenflowers. (Chevallier 190)
Externally, rosemary essential oil can be inhaled through the nose and a few drops of the
preparation rubbed gently but thoroughly on the temples, on the forehead, on the veins of the
neck and behind the ears for pain relief. (HerbalLegacy.com)
An infusion of rosemary may also help ease breast pain by acting as a natural drying agent
to fluid filled cysts.
Rosemary infused oil and rosemary essential oil are used in massage formulas to tone the
circulatory system. Its analgesic properties are useful for treating rheumatism, arthritis, sprains,
sciatica, neuralgia and sore stiff muscles. The symptoms of gout have been relieved throughout
history with rosemary.
Nerves: antioxidant compounds in rosemary prevent uterine spasms and menstrual cramps.
Rosemary acts as a sedative and antispasmodic to relieve restlessness, anxiety, and nervousness,
which commonly occur during drug withdrawal. May be taken as a tea or by making rosemary
wine by chopping up sprigs of green Rosemary and pouring on them white wine, which is
strained off after a few days and is then ready for use.
Circulation: rosemary is a rubefacient and is most useful when an increase of blood flow is
required. It is commonly used as a circulatory and heart stimulant. It stimulates the central
nervous system and circulation making it beneficial for low blood pressure and sluggishness.
Rosemary is a restorative herb that relaxes spasm and increases the rate of perspiration,
while stimulating the liver and gall bladder. By stimulating liver enzymes, rosemary helps to
inactivate excess estrogen hormones, which can cause breast cancer.
Rosemary essential oil increases circulation and helps to alleviate water retention when used in
massage blends.
Rosemary contains more than a dozen antioxidants and at least four are known cataract
fighters. (Duke 128)
Inflammation: the volatile oils in rosemary also help reduce inflammation that contributes
to liver and heart disease and is an excellent stomachic. It is helpful in the digestion of starchy
foods and vegetables and has been used with great success for dyspeptic complaints, flatulence
and to stimulate appetite and the secretion of gastric juices. Additionally, it stimulates the liver
and gall bladder and helps to lower high blood sugar.
After a stroke the Arabs restored speech by eating rosemary flowers pounded with sugar.
They also used it as a vulnerary and sprinkled the dried powdered herb on the umbilical cord of
newborn infants as an astringent and antiseptic. (Christopher 563)
This herb has been used as an insect repellant and is commonly placed in closets and
dressers to keep moths away. Rosemary is used as incense, in aromatherapy and to get rid of
head lice.
Culinary uses: because rosemary can withstand longer cooking times, it is a wonderful
addition to roasted meats (especially lamb), chicken and hearty soups and stews. A few
teaspoons of chopped rosemary add a tangy taste to biscuits as well. It can be used to enhance
the sweetness of fruit salads without adding additional sugar. Rosemary vinegars are healthy
additions to salad dressing. The flowers can also be added to salads. It makes an excellent
natural food preservative.
Rosemary attracts a large number of bees and a very fine honey can be produced from its
nectar. (Rodale 432)
After the leaves are stripped, the stems can be tossed into the fireplace to fill the house with
a delightful, pine-scented perfume.
Rosmarinic acid found in rosemary has natural preservative properties and has been used to
preserve foods, including meats and fish. Stephen Chang, Ph.D. and Chi-tang Ho, Ph.D. of the
Department of Food Science at Rutgers University have patented a process that produces a bland
extract of rosemary, which is very effective and was shown to have better stability than BHA and
BHT at higher temperatures, making it a useful antioxidant for fried foods. (Rodale 429)
Rosemary is generally considered safe when taken in recommended doses and is approved
by the German Commission E, which examines the safety and efficacy of herbs. Large quantities
of rosemary leaves, because of their volatile oil content, can cause serious side effects, including
vomiting, spasms, coma and in some cases, pulmonary edema (fluid in the lungs).
Because higher doses of rosemary may cause miscarriage, pregnant and nursing women
should not take rosemary as a supplement. It is not recommended for children under 18 years of
age. It is safe to eat as a spice in food.
People with high blood pressure, ulcers, Crohn’s disease, or ulcerative colitis should not
take rosemary.
Rosemary oil can be toxic if ingested, and should never be taken orally. The essential oil of
rosemary is potent and highly stimulating and should be avoided by pregnant and breastfeeding
women and those with epilepsy or high blood pressure. Avoid using with homeopathic
remedies. The essential oil may irritate the skin when applied externally.
Consult with your doctor or pharmacist when taking rosemary with any other prescribed
medications. Of particular concern are blood-thinning drugs (Plavix, Coumadin, Aspirin or any
others), ACE inhibitors taken for high blood pressure (Monopril, Vasotec, Zestril, Capoten or
any others), diabetes medications, diuretics (Lasix or Hydrocholorothiazide), Lithium (because
of its diuretic effects, rosemary might cause the body to lose too much water and the amount of
lithium in the body to build up to toxic levels). (Preparednessadvice.com)
To encourage hair growth and deter baldness, a pint of boiling water is poured over an
ounce of dried rosemary herb or powder and one tablespoon of Borax is mixed to a cup of the
preparation. This is rubbed into the hair to prevent or halt baldness. (Christopher 562).
The Queen of Hungary’s Water (astringent) combines herbs for toning the skin, tightening
pores and normalizing the pH of the skin. Combine 6 parts Lemon Balm, 4 parts each
Chamomile and Roses, 3 parts each Calendula and Comfrey leaf, and 1 part each Lemon peel,
Rosemary and Sage. Combine all herbs in a glass mason jar and add apple cider vinegar until the
liquid rises above the herbs by at least 1 or 2 inches. Cover tightly and let sit in warm spot for 2
to 3 weeks. Strain out the herbs and reserve the liquid. For each cup of herbal vinegar, add 2/3 to
1 cup of rose water or witch hazel. Add a drop or two of essential oil, if desired. (Gladstar 130)
Father Sebastian Kneipp (1821-1897), a naturopath and priest, recommended Rosemary
brewed in water as a tea to cleanses the stomach from phlegm and to improve appetite and
digestion. He also recommends Rosemary wine as an excellent remedy against heart infections.
The wine is prepared with a handful of Rosemary, cut up as small as possible, put into a bottle
and covered with wine (white wine is preferred). After standing for half a day, the wine taken in
small doses. The same wine is said to be good for the brain and nervous system and to relieve
headaches. (Christopher 562)
For sciatica, combine 1 ounce each of oil of sassafras, oil or rosemary, oil or oregano,
cayenne and gum camphor with 12 ounces of grain alcohol. Mix well and massage into the sore
places on the body.
Sore throat gargle: combine ½ ounce each Cranesbill root, Bayberry bark, Golden seal
root, Marshmallow root, Wild indigo root and Rosemary herb. Simmer the herbs for 20 minutes
tightly covered in ½ pints of water; strain and add 4 ounces of honey; bottle and keep in a cool
place. Use as a gargle as needed. (Christopher 157)
For nervousness, heartburn, stomach cramps: combine 1 ounce of Wood betony and ½
ounce each of Rosemary herb, Scullcap herb and Yarrow herb. Infuse the herbs for 20 minutes
in 1 quart of water, keeping the mixture tightly covered. Strain and sweeten to taste. Take 2
ounces, 4 times daily. (Christopher 394)
Nervous headache: combine 1 ounce each of Wood betony, rosemary herb and Peppermint.
Pour 1 quart of boiling water over the herbs and cover closely until cool. Strain and sweeten to
taste. Take 3 tablespoons every 2 hours until relieved and then 4 times daily. (Christopher 394)
Dr. Rudgley’s formula for paralysis: combine 4 handfuls of Wood betony, 1 handful each
of Rosemary and Sage, 2 pounds Juniper berries, 24 grams Senna, powder, 24 grams Ginger, 15
grams Cubeb, 2 pounds Yellow D sugar and 15 grams Sweet flag or calamus. Simmer the first 3
herbs slowly in 1 gallon of water down to ½ gallon. Strain, add the Yellow D sugar, bring to a
boil and remove the scum. Strain hot over the remaining herbs, cover tightly until cood and then
strain. Take 1tablespoon morning and night. (Christopher 394)
Liniment for sprains, bruises, rheumatism and neuralgia: combine 2 ounces each of
Cayenne tincture and Lobelia fluid extract with 1 teaspoon each of oil of Wormwood, oil of
Rosemary and Oil of Spearmint. Mix all thoroughly. Apply as much as can be absorbed; use hot
fomentation with a hot water bottle on the troubled area, if possible. (Christopher 414)
For colds and infections: combine 6 parts each of Garlic and Rosehips with 1 part each of
Parsley, Watercress and Rosemary. Adult dosage is 1-6 cups daily. (Christopher 536)
Liver transition formula: Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus), Rosemary, Ginkgo, Oregon
Grape Root, Milk Thistle, Wild Yam and Skullcap. (Christopher 550)
Remember Me: Remarkable Rosemary Green Smoothie by Amanda Klain:
Combine the following ingredients: 1/2 banana, 1 pear, 1/2 orange squeezed fresh juice, handful
of fresh rosemary, mix of chard, spinach and kale to taste. (Terawarner.com)
Commission E recommends using 2-3 teaspoons of dried rosemary to make a cup of pail-
relieving tea. For a bath to provide relaxation and pain relief, fill a cloth bag with 2 ounces of
rosemary and toss it into your bathwater. (Duke 350)
Hair Rinse: if you are a brunette, a rosemary rinse will brighten your hair. Insure 1 ounce
each of rosemary and sage in 1 pint of water for 24 hours. Work the rinse into your hair after
shampooing. (Rodale 432)
Rosemary Bath: the volatile oil in rosemary gets the blood flowing under the skin and can
refresh and stimulate a worn and sluggish body. Make a strong tea from the rosemary leaves and
add it to the bathwater or make a steam facial with an infusion of rosemary leaves to perk up
your face. (Rodale 431)
Capsules: medical professionals have recommended not exceeding two - 400 mg rosemary
capsules up to three times a day.
Rosemary tea: 2-3 teaspoons fresh rosemary leaves, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried),
Green teabag (optional). Pour 2 cups boiling water over and steep for 5-10 minutes; strain.
Rosemary for the Bath: Place 2 ounces of dried rosemary in 1 liter water, boil, then let stand
for 30 minutes. Add to bath water.
Rosemary essential oil: (6-10%) Mix two drops with one tablespoon of base oil. Do not
ingest internally, do not apply to an open sore, and avoid eye contact. Some people may have an
allergic reaction to the oil.
I bought a Rosemary Christmas tree this past December that was aesthetically perfect for my
small apartment. The aroma was stimulating and mood elevating. After the holidays, I dried the
rosemary leaves which I used for tea and cooking. I also made a rosemary tincture (vodka
menstruum) and rosemary vinegar (raw apple cider vinegar menstruum). From these I made a
brain formula tincture for internal use and a hair rinse for external use:
Hair rinse: Rosemary vinegar, Skullcap, Gotu Kola, Cayenne and Coconut oil.
The hair rinse was very stimulating to the scalp. I massaged it in, covered my hair with plastic
and then a towel and left on for 15 minutes. I will be using this more often.
Brain tincture: Rosemary, Ginkgo, Skullcap, Gotu Kola, California Poppy and Cayenne.
I am excited about this new brain tincture but I need to use it longer before I can report on my
personal results. I am impressed by each of the herbs in the formula and I am expecting great
results.
Food uses:
Herb butter: 2 tsp. Rosemary and ½ cup softened coconut butter spread. This herb butter is
a simple way to incorporate additional rosemary into my diet. I am really enjoying the taste—
especially knowing the amazing health benefits that I am receiving with it.
Rosemary Smashed Potatoes: 1 tablespoon flour, 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed, 3/4
teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1-1/2 pounds baby red potatoes,
quartered, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/2 cup sour cream (used soy cream cheese with a bit of
almond milk as a substitute), 2 tablespoons butter, cut in small pieces, 3 green onions, sliced
thin. (AllRecipes.com)
I look forward to continuing my exploration of Rosemary. I have underestimated this
powerful herb my entire life. I have a new reverence for Rosemary and appreciate the gifts that it
provides to all of us.
Chevallier, Andrew. Herbal Remedies. New York, NY: Metro Books, 2007.
Christopher, John R. Herb Syllabus, Master Herbalist Guide. Springville: Christopher
Publications, Inc., 2010.
Christopher, John R. The School Of Natural Healing Herbal Reference Guide. Springville:
Christopher Publications, Inc., 1976.
Culinary And Herbal Uses Of Rosemary. Retrieved: March 28, 2013.
http://preparednessadvice.com/recipes/culinary-and-herbal-uses-of-
rosemary/#.UVSyEFdv7kc
Discover The Many Health Benefits Of The Herbal Spices Rosemary And Thyme.
Retrieved March 13, 2013. www.naturalnews.com/030814_rosemary_herbs.html.
Duke, James A. The Green Pharmacy. New York, NY: Rodale Press, Inc., 1997.
Gladstar, Rosemary. Herbal Recipes For Vibrant Health. North Adams, MA: Storey
Publishing, 2008.
Grieve, M. A Modern Herbal. New York, NY: Dover Publications, Inc., 1971
Headache. Retrieved March 30, 2013. http://www.herballegacy.com/Headache.html
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