This small, aromatic, evergreen shrubby plant is native to the Mediterranean region and now cultivated world-wide. It has been used for thousands of years to improve memory and aid digestion, and as a preservative for meats. The leaves and terminal twigs are used in cooking and herbal medicine, the extracted oil is also commonly used in aromatherapy.
Medicinal Properties of Rosemary
It contains a wide variety of compounds, including flavanoids, diterpenes, volatile oil and phenolic acids, in particular rosmarinic acid, which is antioxidant in action. The volatile oil consists of a variety of active constituents that have potent anti-microbial and antispasmodic properties. Historically it is said to be antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, anticancer, circulatory stimulant tonic, diuretic, sedative, mild astringent, analgesic and a brain tonic.
Rosemary Herbal Remedies
Historically Rosemary has been used to treat a number of conditions including:
Anxiety
Atherosclerosis
Candidiasis (systemic)
Chronic fatigue syndrome (M.E.)
Depression
Flatulence
Headaches – from high blood pressure or emotional upset
Heart problems
Heartburn
Indigestion
Infections
Infestations (topically)
Memory loss
Migraine headaches
Poor digestion
Septic shock
Sluggish liver
Other Rosemary Information
The herb is available fresh or dried and can easily be made into a tea, and drunk up to 3 times per day. Oil preparations for internal use are also sometimes available, if not a qualified herbalist will be able to make a preparation to suit your needs.
In cooking it can be added to fatty meals such as lamb and pork to enhance flavour, and also to help break-down the fats and aid digestion. It can also be added to white wine to make a rosemary wine.
Aromatherapy oil is available for topical use and is commonly added to a carrier oil and used in scalp massage, to improve circulation to the hair follicles. Rosemary is a common ingredient in herbal shampoo and can be used to treat head lice.
Side Effects of Rosemary
Rosemary oil during pregnancy should be avoided, although it is considered safe during lactation.
When used in cooking it does not present a problem.
At the time of writing there are no well known side effects, drug interactions or contra-indications.
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