Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis Lamiaceae)

Other Names: Medicinal Rosemary, Anthos

Rosemary, a dense, aromatic evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean, has been a symbol of love and fidelity since the Middle Ages, often used in wedding attire. It bears pale blue or purple flowers in May and June. Its essential oil is a key component in colognes.

Parts for Use

Flowers and Leaves

1. Flowers are picked in full bloom and dried.
2. Evergreen leaves can be harvested year-round, scalded, and dried.
3. Used to prepare infusions, tinctures, and essential oils.

Ingredients

Rosemary contains flavonoids (antioxidants), phenols like rosmarinic acid (antiseptic, anti-inflammatory), tannins (astringent, infection-fighting), rosmaricin (analgesic, stimulant), and volatile oils (cineole, camphor) with a sharp, stimulating odor.

Use in Treatment

Rosemary’s flavonoids enhance circulation, strengthen capillaries, and improve venous blood flow, supporting memory, concentration, and headache relief. It stimulates hair growth and combats dandruff with its antiseptic and astringent properties. Rosemary soothes digestive issues like indigestion, stomach cramps, bloating, and constipation. A 1987 study confirmed its extract promotes bile flow for fat digestion, while a 1995 study noted its diuretic and liver-detoxifying effects. Its antibacterial and expectorant properties aid bronchial, ear, nose, and throat infections, and it boosts energy in cases of fatigue. Externally, diluted rosemary oil relieves muscle pain, sciatica, rheumatism, and inflammation, while scalp application prevents premature baldness.

Cultivation

Grow rosemary from cuttings, transplanting rooted cuttings to well-drained, sandy soil in a warm, sheltered, sunny location.

Preparation and Dosage

For Internal Use (Indigestion, Stomach Cramps, Swelling, Constipation, Bronchial/Ear/Nose/Throat Infections)

1. Infusion: Steep 2–4 g dried herbs in a cup of boiling water for 10 minutes, strain, and drink 3 cups daily.

For External Use (Rheumatism, Muscle Pain, Sciatica)

1. Infusion: Steep 50 g plant in boiling water for 30 minutes, strain, and add to bath water.
2. Essential Oil: Dilute 3 drops in 10 ml base oil (e.g., sunflower), massage into sore joints.

For External Use (Dandruff, Hair Growth)

1. Infusion or Tincture: Apply to scalp, following manufacturer’s instructions for tinctures.

Warnings

1. Consult a healthcare professional before use.
2. Avoid rosemary preparations during pregnancy and breastfeeding, except in culinary amounts.
3. Do not administer to children.
4. Do not use rosemary essential oil internally.