About Rosemary Herb

The name rosemary is derived from the Latin word Rosmarinus which means “dew of the sea”. It is a woody and perennial aromatic herb with the needle-like leaves and small blue flowers that grow upright. Rosemary is a versatile plant that offers fresh aromas, is a spice for cooking, and is used as decoration during the Christmas season. Rosemary is easy to grow in pots and grows best in a well-drained, sunny place in lime-rich soil. It can be reproduced by cuttings or grown from seed.

Culinary Use of Rosemary

Rosemary leaves can be added as seasonings to lamb chops, meat, soups, fish and tea.

Rosemary for decoration

Rosemary is quite popular during Christmas as it can be cut into the shape of the Christmas tree. As the plant is fragile, lightweight lights and hangings can be put on it.

Medicinal Use of Rosemary

• Rosemary can be used as an antioxidant as it is a rich source of Vitamin E and neutralize the adverse effect of radicals which are responsible for causing cancer, inflammation of joints and arthritis.
• Rosemary oil is good for skin and is used in many skincare products. It has a rejuvenating effect as it strengthens blood capillaries and improves blood circulation.
• Rosemary is a strong antiseptic, antioxidant, and antispasmodic and is useful in treating circulatory conditions.
• Rosemary eases swelling and relaxes the eyes. Rosemary can be picked fresh from the plant, dried, or used as oil. Pick a handful of needles from the plant and tie them in two pieces of muslin cloth. Place them in the pan with hot water and boil for some time. Squeeze the bundles and when they are cool enough to touch, place them over your eyelids for five minutes. Rinse the eyes. Rosemary tea bags can be used to prevent swelling and puffiness in the eyes.
• Rosemary oil has an antibacterial and antifungal property which makes it an effective mouth wash as it acts as a disinfectant and kills bad breath producing germs. Rosemary water is an effective gargle for bad breath. Boil fresh rosemary in water. Add a few drops of lemon juice in it. Allow the mixture to stand for 24 hours. Strain the mixture and use it as mouthwash.
• Rosemary oil is a helpful inhalant and decongestant. It can be applied to a child’s chest to ease a cough. It relieves respiratory congestion, including sinuses and relieving catarrh and asthma.
• Rosemary oil helps to sharpen the memory and boost the central nervous system.