Rosemary (Rosemarinus officinalis) Rosmarinus, meaning "dew of the sea," reflects its coastal habitat, being native to the Mediterranean Sea region, and is now cultivated worldwide for culinary and medicinal purposes. Used in cooking for its flavorful zest and preservative properties, as well as in medicinal teas; rosemary is an outstanding brain health herb, promoting improved memory, focus, and concentration.
Rosemary is a member of the mint (Lamiaceae) family. Its recognizable leaves are evergreen and needle-like, with a dark green top surface and a silvery underside. Blooming in spring or early summer, with the possibility of year-round blossoms in warmer climates, rosemary offers a vibrant display of lavender blue flowers, with some varieties offering white or pink flowers.
It is a stimulating and uplifting herb, with an aromatic and spicy profile. Rosemary's warming, drying, and stimulating qualities make it valuable for addressing cold and stagnant conditions. As the herb of remembrance, it has a long-standing reputation for enhancing memory and brain function. Scientific studies support this traditional use, revealing increased alertness and better performance when exposed to rosemary's scent.
Rosemary's versatility is evident in its varied applications, whether used fresh or dried, as an essential oil, or hydrosol. Harvest before flowering to ensure higher volatile oil content. It can be incorporated into salt blends, teas, tinctures, herbal steams, essential oil blends, or even as a hair wash when infused in vinegar. With its gentle warming and dispersing effects, Rosemary benefits the heart, digestion, liver, and mood, making it a versatile and cherished herb in culinary and medicinal practices alike.
Uses
Analgesic
Antimicrobial
Anti-inflammatory
Carminative (digestive support)
Circulatory stimulant
Cognitive health and memory
Headache
Immune boosting
Respiratory health
Topical: skin and hair
Circulatory Stimulant Rosemary plays a vital role in promoting a healthy cardiovascular system, which encompasses the heart, blood vessels, and blood. By stimulating blood circulation, rosemary aids in the efficient transportation of nutrients, oxygen, and antibodies throughout the body, contributing to overall vitality and immune support. Its circulatory benefits may extend to addressing issues such as heart palpitations and low blood pressure. Herbalists have historically utilized rosemary to address congestive heart failure and the resulting edema. Acting as a circulatory stimulant, it can dilate blood vessels without causing excessive stimulation. Combining rosemary with hawthorn may prove beneficial for those with cardiac weakness and overall depression. Beyond the heart, rosemary's support extends to the brain, extremities, and eyes, particularly useful for vasoconstrictive headaches and tense muscles. With its antioxidant properties, rosemary also aids in reducing oxidative stress and combating free radicals, providing potential benefits for conditions like diabetes, cancer, and arthritis. Rosemary can be infused into a carrier oil to be used for massage oils or making salves; ideal for helping to support circulation.
Cognitive As a symbol of honor and remembrance, rosemary rightfully earns its title as the "Queen of Antioxidants" due to the robust presence of carnosic acid. This constituent safeguards the brain from free radicals, offering potential protection against stroke, Alzheimer’s Disease, and aging effects. Ancient Greek scholars correctly believed that rosemary enhanced memory, so they would adorn themselves with garlands of rosemary, or would place sprigs in their hair to retain knowledge gained during studies. Modern scientific studies support these cognitive benefits, with rosemary essential oil aromatherapy showing positive links to improved cognitive function and short-term memory. Rosemary's association with mental clarity is underscored by its immediate impact on focus when smelled or inhaled.
Digestive Rosemary has been used as a culinary herb for millennia for good reason—it not only imparts a distinctive and robust flavor to food but also serves as a warming, aromatic bitter that aids digestion. The bitter taste triggers digestive organs to release secretions, promoting bile flow, pancreatic enzymes, and nutrient absorption while supporting peristalsis. This herb's antispasmodic properties decrease stomach cramps and digestive upset while improving appetite. Additionally, it is a valued carminative for relieving gas and bloating. Culinarily speaking, rosemary's use extends beyond simply flavoring meat and potatoes; it can be infused in vinegar, olive oil, or other oils for cooking, salad dressings, and more. Furthermore, it can be included in herbal teas, tinctures, and infused vinegar.
Respiratory Rosemary's aromatic volatile oils serve as a mucolytic expectorant, aiding in the loosening and breakup of stubborn mucus in the airways. This quality makes it beneficial for clearing the lungs, reducing congestion, and fostering deeper breathing. Historically, rosemary incense was burned to cleanse and purify the air, especially in hospitals, to help prevent infection due to its antimicrobial properties. Rosemary's affinity for the respiratory system and antimicrobial properties make it ideal for addressing issues like sinusitis, bronchitis, and asthma. A delightful and warming remedy during cold and flu season is rosemary ginger tea, which offers respiratory relief for stagnant congestion of the sinuses and lungs. If you have a sore throat, try sipping on rosemary tea dressed up with honey and lemon, or indulge with a spoonful of rosemary-infused honey. If you are suffering from a sinus congestion headache, try a rosemary herbal steam to bring relief.
Topical Rosemary is highly valued for its skin-healing properties, offering relief for challenging conditions like dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis. The rosmarinic acid present in rosemary contributes antioxidant properties that effectively safeguard against oxidative stress, enhancing overall skin health. Furthermore, rosemary demonstrates potent anti-inflammatory effects, diminishing redness, swelling, and puffiness. Historical records show that in the 14th century, Queen Elizabeth of Hungary used rosemary-infused wine to relieve rheumatic and gout pains, a remedy now known as Queen of Hungary Water. When integrated into facial skincare products, rosemary brightens and clarifies the complexion by naturally stimulating skin circulation and aiding in toxin elimination. Having a specific affinity for the head, rosemary has traditionally been applied topically to stimulate hair growth and maintain healthy hair. Applied to the scalp, rosemary actively stimulates hair growth, energizes hair follicles, fosters scalp healing, ensures deep moisturization, and addresses issues of dandruff. Including rosemary hydrosol in DIY recipes for face, scalp, and skin products provides an excellent option for enhancing the topical application experience.
Caution is advised in larger amounts in pregnancy, breast-feeding, and for individuals with hypertension or diabetes. It may also affect blood glucose levels, so be sure to monitor your blood sugars if you are taking diabetes medication. Skin dermatitis may affect a small percentage of people exposed to rosemary.
Essential Oil
Rosemary essential oil boasts a potent aroma characterized by a strong, fresh, and herbal yet resinous quality. In the realm of blending, it synergizes well with essential oils like spike lavender, thyme, juniper berry, eucalyptus, peppermint, grapefruit, and black pepper. Application methods include dilution into carrier oils, vinegar for hair rinses, or integration into shampoos.
There are several chemotypes (abbreviated as ct) of rosemary, meaning that the same plant species can produce different essential oil chemical constituents depending on different factors such as the soil, region, and climate. The most common chemotypes are rosemary ct verbenone, rosemary ct 1,8-cineole, and rosemary ct camphor, but there are also rosemary ct α- pinene, and rosemary ct bornyl acetate.
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According to Jade Shutes at The School for Aromatic Studies, the main actions for the common chemotypes are as follows:
Rosemary ct. camphor: analgesic, antioxidant, anti-rheumatic, antiviral, carminative, cephalic (clears and stimulates the mind), circulatory, decongestant, digestive, diuretic, expectorant, mucolytic, muscle relaxant, and vulnerary
Rosemary ct. cineole: mild analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-fungal (for candida), anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antiviral, cephalic (clears and stimulates the mind), decongestant, digestive, expectorant, mucolytic, muscle relaxant, and vulnerary
Rosemary ct. verbenone: mild analgesic, anti-rheumatic, antiseptic, antiviral, carminative, cell regenerative, cephalic (clears and stimulates the mind), endocrine regulator, expectorant, mucolytic, muscle relaxant, cardiac supportive, and vulnerary
Circulatory Stimulant Rosemary essential oil has been long used to increase circulation, which can help to normalize blood pressure, as well as help aid in pain relief. Rosemary ct cineole pairs with black pepper and sweet marjoram for topical support of veinous circulation, easing aches and pains, and fighting general fatigue.
Cognitive Aromatherapeutically, rosemary contributes to mental alertness, clarity, emotional invigoration, enhanced energy, and improved focus. Rosemary ct cineole helps alleviate confusion, supports decision-making, and combats issues like depression, dementia, exhaustion, and mental fatigue. Diffusing or inhaling rosemary ct 1,8-cineole can help increase alertness and alleviate mental fatigue. Rosemary ct camphor is ideal to combat low energy when feeling down, fatigued, or unable to concentrate.
Digestive Essential oils containing 1,8-cineole, such as rosemary ct 1,8-cineole, may help to soothe inflammation in the digestive tract, relieving spasms and discomfort. Rosemary serves as a carminative, aiding in digestive concerns such as dyspepsia, liver disorders, and even colitis. Rosemary provides relief by stimulating the digestive system, aiding in the expulsion of gas.
Respiratory Rosemary essential oils prove beneficial in addressing respiratory issues such as congestion, asthma, and bronchitis. For a head cold, consider creating a chest rub cream with additional respiratory oils such as eucalyptus, thyme, Siberian fir, and frankincense. Rub the cream on your chest and upper back throughout the day as needed. For a soothing evening blend, opt for the verbenone chemotype, which is less stimulating but still decongesting, blend with lavender and thyme ct linalool.
Topical Rosemary ct verbenone has regenerating qualities that make it ideal for skincare; beneficial in skincare blends for regeneration, acne, rosacea, itching, and varicose veins. Consider adding a drop of rosemary essential oil directly into your shampoo for a refreshing and uplifting experience, ideal for bringing energy into your mornings, while fighting dandruff and promoting hair growth.
Caution in pregnancy, epilepsy, and hypertension. Rosemary ct 1,8-cineole should not be used with children under the age of 5. Rosemary essential oil can oxidize; always store your essential oils in a temperature-controlled room, out of direct light.
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Recipes
Herbal Seasoning Blend
Sea Salt
Dried and cut sage leaves or powdered sage
Dried and cut rosemary leaves or powdered rosemary
Dried and cut thyme leaves or powdered thyme
Dried and cut oregano leaves or powdered oregano
Dried and cut parley leaves or powdered parsley
Dried and cut garlic or powdered garlic
Freshly ground black pepper
Use roughly equal portions of all the herbs. If you want to increase the "brain power" of this blend, consider also adding one or more of the following: ginkgo biloba, lavender, olive leaf, holy basil (tulsi), and lemon balm. Depending on how much salt you are comfortable with, use a 1:1 or 1:2 ratio of salt to herb blend. You can sprinkle this blend on any of your favorite dishes, especially Italian and savory dishes
Foot Soak
1 oz pink Himalayan Salt
1 Tbsp jojoba oil or any carrier oil
2 drops of rosemary essential oil
Add the essential oil to the carrier oil. Add the salt and oil blend into a tub of warm water. Soak your feet for 10-15 minutes.
Refreshing Foot Balm
2 oz mango butter
1 oz kombo butter
0.5 oz jojoba oil or any carrier oil, optionally you can infuse with rosemary or calendula
1 Tbsp beeswax pellets
10 drops rosemary essential oil
5 drops of lavender essential oil
5 drops of tea tree essential oil
2, 2 oz tins
Melt the butters, jojoba, and beeswax together in a double boiler. Once everything is melted and blended, remove from heat and allow to cool for a couple of minutes. Add the essential oils, blend well, pour into tins, and allow to cool and harden completely before placing on the lids. Be sure to label. Use this balm to rub onto your tired feet at the end of the day.
Dandruff Rinse
Rosemary
Raw apple cider vinegar
Using freshly wilted rosemary (cut and let hang to dry for a couple of days), fill a clean mason jar about half-full with the rosemary. Pour raw apple cider over the rosemary, being sure to completely submerge the herb, and continue filling with vinegar to within an inch of the top. Use a plastic lid, or place wax paper between the vinegar and metal lid to avoid corroding the metal. Give it a gentle shake. Allow the blend to infuse for about 4 weeks. Strain off the herb. Before using, dilute 1/4 cup of infused vinegar with 3/4 to 1 cup of water (if you have time, use rosemary tea as the water in this recipe). Use this diluted rosemary vinegar to rinse your hair after shampooing. Remember, for added benefit, you can spike your shampoo bottle with a drop or two of rosemary essential oil. If you are not a fan of the smell of vinegar, you can make a fresh rosemary tea, and use that as a hair rinse instead of the infused vinegar.
Rosemary is a remarkable aromatic herb, that offers a plethora of benefits and enjoyments.
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