Rosemary is a popular herb with diverse uses ranging from culinary and cosmetics to aromatherapy and medicinal.
Origin of Rosemary
Rosmarinus officinalis is Latin and the scientific name for the herb Rosemary. The name is derived from the Latin words ‘ros’ meaning ‘dew’ and ‘marinus’ meaning ‘of the sea’.
Rosemary comes from the Mediterranean where it often grows wild along the seashore. The ancient Romans believed that rosemary brought good luck and protected people from evil spirits. While native to the Mediterranean, rosemary has been introduced to many other parts of the world including Europe, Asia and the Americas. The shrub may grow up to 6 feet tall in its native origin but remains smaller when cultivated in northern areas and is generally not frost resistant.
Rosemary Features
Rosemary has needle shaped leaves which are grey on the bottom. In the spring it has light blue, white or pink flowers. It has a slightly minty scent with undertones of evergreen, wood and camphor, similar to pine or eucalyptus.
Use of Rosemary in Cuisine
Rosemary is a perfect seasoning for meat, poultry or fish. It also goes well with many summer vegetable dishes. It is a common ingredient in soups, stews and marinades. It is very easy to create rosemary oil or vinegar by simply putting a branch in the liquid and allowing it to sit for sometime.
Another popular culinary use of rosemary is its addition to Focaccia bread.
Decorative Uses for Rosemary
Rosemary has a pleasing scent that is said to reduce stress and improve ones mood. It should be placed next to an area where you like to relax. It can also be used in your bath by placing 2 ounces of rosemary leaves in a boiling water, steep for 30 minutes, drain and add to bath water.
Other Uses of Rosemary
Rosemary is good for digestion as well as blood circulation, having anti-inflammatory properties. For this reason it is used as a basic ingredient in ointment for treating rheumatism. The plant also stimulates and strengthens the nerves.
Rosemary oil is a valuable base ingredient in personal care products and cosmetics. It is rich in antioxidants and used to reduce the appearance of aging and as well assist with acne and other skin conditions.
Rosemary essential oil is a popular oil and is said to with a wide variety of benefits and uses such as:
- May help with improved Brain Function
- Stimulated Hair Growth
- May help relieve pain
- Repels some bugs
- May ease stress
- May increase circulation
- May reduce joint inflammation
Rosemary essential oil, which holds the plant’s core components or essence is extracted and available in small bottles.