Latin Name: Rosmarinus officinalis
Herb Class/Action: Rosemary is classified as a stimulant, carminative, nervine, and antimicrobial herb.
Parts of Plant Used: The leaves and flowering tops of the rosemary plant are used for medicinal, culinary, and aromatic purposes.
Flavors: Rosemary has a strong, aromatic flavor with piney, woody, and slightly bitter undertones.
Energetics: Rosemary is energetically warming and drying.
Medicinal Properties:
- Cognitive Support: Rosemary is renowned for its cognitive-enhancing properties. It is believed to improve memory, concentration, and mental clarity. In aromatherapy, rosemary essential oil is often diffused to promote alertness and mental focus.
- Digestive Aid: Rosemary acts as a carminative herb to relieve symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and gas. It stimulates the production of digestive enzymes and bile, promoting healthy digestion and alleviating gastrointestinal discomfort.
- Antimicrobial: Rosemary contains compounds such as rosmarinic acid and essential oils that have antimicrobial properties, making it effective against bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It can be used internally or externally to support the immune system and prevent infections.
In the Garden: Rosemary is an evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region but cultivated worldwide for its culinary and medicinal uses, as well as its ornamental value. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil and is drought-tolerant once established. Rosemary has needle-like leaves and produces small, blue, purple, or white flowers in the spring and summer. It is often grown in herb gardens, containers, and borders or used as a fragrant hedge or topiary.
Culinary Uses: Rosemary is a versatile culinary herb used to flavor a wide range of dishes. It pairs well with meats, poultry, fish, vegetables, potatoes, bread, and olive oil. Fresh rosemary sprigs can be used to infuse flavor into soups, stews, marinades, sauces, and roasted dishes. Dried rosemary leaves can be added to spice blends and rubs.
Precautions: Rosemary is generally safe for most individuals when used as a culinary herb or aromatherapy ingredient. However, excessive consumption or prolonged use of rosemary extract or essential oil may cause digestive upset or allergic reactions in some people. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid consuming large amounts of rosemary, as it may stimulate uterine contractions. Additionally, individuals with