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.

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