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Botanical name
Salvia Rosmarinus
Rosmarinus officinalis
Description
Rosemary, an aromatic evergreen, perennial shrub that has been around for centuries and was highly valued in Egypt, Greece and Rome. Rosemary is a member of the same family as thyme, oregano, and basil.
Vitamins and Minerals
- Rosemary contains a number of phytochemicals, including rosmarinic acid, camphor, caffeic acid, ursolic acid, betulinic acid, carnosic acid, and carnosol.
- Rosemary essential oil contains 10–20% camphor.
Possible Health Benefits
- Helps to reduce gastrointestinal inflammation.
- Helps to reduce systemic inflammation in the body, which can help to reduce the symptoms of pain and irritation caused by arthritis or issues affecting the nervous system.
- Skincare: Soothes irritated skin. Combining rosemary essential oil with a carrier oil, (i.e., coconut oil or olive oil), or adding a few drops to lotion and applying it to your feet and/or elbows can help heal the cracks on your feet and elbows.
- Skincare: Rosemary plant extract has been shown to not only reduce the inflammation associated with acne, but actually directly fight the bacterium that can cause acne outbreaks.
- Hair care: Rosemary can be used to stimulate hair growth.
- Can help improve sleep.
- Enhances cognitive skills by helping with brain fog, improving memory, enhancing concentration and may help ward off dementia.
- Eyes – Scientists are currently researching rosemary for its value in treating all types of eye issues, particularly those affecting the outer retina. The compound in rosemary that is currently being researched for these types of issues is carnosic acid.
Quick Tip
I have used the Aura Cacia
Notes/Warnings
- Rosemary can increase urination, impair blood clotting ability and lower blood pressure. Anyone taking medications that affect these systems, should speak with their doctor before consuming rosemary.
- If you take lithium, the diuretic effects of rosemary can lead to toxic levels of lithium accumulating in your body.
Flavor Profile
A very pronounced pine-like flavor that is also bitter, astringent, woody and peppery.
Background and History
The earliest mention of rosemary was found on cuneiform stone tablets as early as 5000 BC.
The herb then made its way east to China and was naturalized there as early as 220 AD.
The first records of rosemary arriving in Britain were in the 8th century. This was credited to Charlemagne, who promoted herbs in general, and ordered rosemary to be grown in monastic gardens and farms.
Popular Uses
- Rosemary is used as a decorative plant in gardens where it may have pest control effects.
- Rosemary leaves are used as a flavoring in foods, such as stuffing and roast lamb, pork, chicken, and turkey.
- Herbal tea can be made from the leaves.
- Rosemary extract has been shown to improve the shelf life and heat stability of omega 3-rich oils which are prone to rancidity
- Rosemary oil is used as a fragrance in perfumes.
- Burnt as incense.
- Used in shampoos and cleaning products.
Recipes
Rosemary Tea
- Add 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary to 8 ounces of boiling water.
- Cover and steep for a minimum of five minutes.
Note: I use a tea ball
Rosemary infused oil for skincare
- In a 3-ounce container that has a tight-fitting lid, add 1/2 cup of a carrier oil such as coconut, olive, argan, jojoba, grape seed or avocado.
- Add 20-25 drops of rosemary essential.
- Secure lid and shake well to combine.
- Store in a cool, dark place.
- Can be kept for 8-12 months.
Note: I use Aura Cacia
Food Recipes
- 12 Ways to Cook with Fresh Rosemary
- 38 Recipes Packed and Perfumed with Rosemary
- 40 Fresh Rosemary Recipes