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An Herb You Must Meet — Rosemary

Article in a Nutshell

Welcome to the Energetic Health Institute’s “An Herb You Should Meet” series. Chances are, you have some of the most potent natural medicines in your kitchen spice rack, right now.

In this series, we dive into the history of some of our favorite herbs and learn how you can begin growing them in your kitchen or garden today. It’s easy, and who wouldn’t like to add a natural boost of antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties to their meals or use them to spice up a cup of tea? (1)

Article in a Nutshell

Welcome to the Energetic Health Institute’s “An Herb You Should Meet” series. Chances are, you have some of the most potent natural medicines in your kitchen spice rack, right now.
In this series, we dive into the history of some of our favorite herbs and learn how you can begin growing them in your kitchen or garden today. It’s easy, and who wouldn’t like to add a natural boost of antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties to their meals or use them to spice up a cup of tea? (1)
Today’s featured herb is rosemary, which has an intriguing history and far-reaching uses. Rosemary can be safely ingested as an aromatic herb, inhaled, and applied externally as an ointment or shampoo. It is highly regarded as a healing herb for digestive issues, headaches, migraines, insomnia, and emotional distress, as well offering a memory-boosting.

Latin Name: Rosmarinus officinalis

Family: Lamiaceae/Labiatiae

Common Names:

Garden Rosemary
Herb of Crowns
Polar Plant
Compass-weed
Compass Plant
Old Man
Romero (Spanish)

Rosemary's History

Rosemary was considered a sacred herb by ancient Greeks, Romans, Egyptians, Hebrews, and other cultures surrounding the Mediterranean. Its lengthy history of medicinal use assists us in understanding why this herb is important today. Since ancient times, rosemary has symbolized love, loyalty, and friendship. Rosemary has been used for its aromatic, antiseptic, and mood- and memory-enhancing properties, while also being utilized for ceremonial purposes. (2)
It has been highly regarded as an herb that fights fatigue, enhances endurance, purifies food, and cleanses the body. It is highlighted in De Materia Medica, a book that exemplifies the transfer of knowledge across the centuries. It was written by Dioscorides (50-70 C.E.), whose work is considered to have laid the foundation of modern botanical terminology.

As an herb associated with memory in ancient Greece, rosemary was capitalized by students and scholars, who wore wreaths of rosemary on their heads to improve their memory and their exam results. This use inspired rosemary’s common name “Herb of Crowns.” It is fascinating to note that this practice is still used today.
It has been highly regarded as an herb that fights fatigue, enhances endurance, purifies food, and cleanses the body. It is highlighted in De Materia Medica, a book that exemplifies the transfer of knowledge across the centuries. It was written by Dioscorides (50-70 C.E.), whose work is considered to have laid the foundation of modern botanical terminology.
This beautiful aromatic herb has played an integral part in daily life for its medicinal and cleansing properties, “From then until now and continued from before.” Let’s take a look at how research is confirming the medicative healing properties of rosemary as we further explore this magnificent herb.

Health Benefits and Uses of Rosemary

Rosemary shares a natural anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving property, found in avocados, blueberries, mushrooms, and cauliflower, known as dietary salicylic acid. This compound has been found to have cancer-preventative actions. (3)

“ According to scientists, the scent of rosemary
alone is an effective memory stimulant. ”

Salicylic acid is a natural alternative to aspirin, which is known to soothe headaches and increase blood flow. Additionally, rosemary helps to relax muscles, including the smooth muscles of the digestive tract and uterus. Therefore, it soothes indigestion and is also known to relieve menstrual cramps. (4)
Promising research continues to support the use of rosemary as a neuroprotective antioxidant herb with therapeutic effects on health conditions like Alzheimer’s, glioblastoma, neuroblastoma, epilepsy, Parkinson’s, migraines, and cognitive disorders. According to scientists, the scent of rosemary alone is an effective memory stimulant. (5) (6) (7)

Another compound found in rosemary is cineole, an aromatic molecule found in many plants that is known to cross the blood-brain barrier. In doing so, cineole is capable of preventing the breakdown of acetylcholinesterase, a key enzyme that plays a role in memory, learning, attention, arousal, and involuntary muscle movement. (8) (9) (10) (11)

Rosemary is a go-to herb used as a restorative tonic for the nervous and cardiovascular systems. It contains flavonoids that strengthen heartbeat and capillaries, and counteract blood vessel fragility, spider veins, and varicose veins. It has a long history of improving energy production and assisting digestive problems related to emotional disorders. But its health benefits don’t stop there. (12)

Rosemary and the “5 Elements Perspective”

Here are some additional health benefits of rosemary based on Traditional Chinese Medicine and “5 Elements Perspective.”
  • Strengthens the heart and small intestines
  • Stimulates the heart and blood flow in the arteries
  • Is great for supporting healthy cholesterol levels
  • Supports lungs, large intestines, and thyroid
  • Removes mucus and opens sinuses
  • Is used as a tincture for bronchitis, asthma, and frontal headaches
  • Provides overall support for healthy lung function
  • Is great for digestive issues related to diarrhea/constipation
  • Supports the spleen, pancreas, kidneys, adrenals, liver, gallbladder, and kidneys
  • Stimulates digestion
  • Acts as a natural diuretic
  • Reduces fatigue, joint problems, and atherosclerosis
  • Curtails digestive issues, bloating, and indigestion
  • Assists in cleansing the liver and gallbladder by cleaning bile ducts and detoxing toxic elements
Rosemary has significant antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, anti-tumorigenic, antinociceptive, and neuroprotective properties. Furthermore, it shows essential clinical effects on mood, learning, memory, pain, anxiety, and sleep. (13) (14) (15)

Contraindications

Rosemary leaf and rosemary oil are safe for most people when used in regular food doses. However, anyone who is taking medications or has an allergy to aspirin should consult with their primary health care practitioner before using this herb or essential oil. (16)

Other contraindications include:
  • Aspirin allergy
  • Other types of allergies
  • Bleeding disorders
  • Seizures
  • Breastfeeding and pregnancy
  • Children under the age of 12
  • Severe liver diseases
  • Biliary obstruction
  • High blood pressure
  • Crohn’s disease
  • Ulcerative colitis

Stimulating Ways to Rejuvenate with Rosemary Oil

When Diffused

Rosemary essential oil is believed to help reduce stress levels and fatigue, encourage mental clarity, and support respiratory function.

With Massage

Rosemary oil is used to support relaxation and healthy digestion, reduce flatulence, bloating, cramps, and constipation.

In a Bath

Rosemary oil is reputed to strengthen immunity, support the body’s elimination of waste, and comfort aching muscles.

In Cosmetics

Rosemary oil has been found to calm irritated skin, support the growth/condition of hair, and promote healthy, rejuvenating skin.

When shopping for essential oils, be sure to look for organic, food- and/or medicinal-grade products.

Healthy Recipes

Brighten your meals with fresh rosemary recipes that showcase this delightfully aromatic herb. Add fresh rosemary to steamed or baked vegetables, or add it to your favorite marinade for roasts, chicken, fish, or veggie rolls.

Rosemary Tea

Due to its stimulant properties, rosemary tea is an invigorating tonic and astringent. Warm rosemary tea is diaphoretic (sweats out toxins). Therefore, it is a good remedy for colds.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes Ingredients
  • 1 sprig fresh rosemary
  • 1-2 cups boiling water
  • 1 tsp organic honey (optional)
Method

Rinse sprig to remove any dirt and debris.

Place rosemary in boiling water for 3 minutes to steep. When the flavor has reached your desired level, remove the sprig.

Fill a mug halfway and add honey until dissolved. Serve and enjoy.

Rosemary Lemonade Popsicles

A great treat for summer!

Preparation Time: 10 to 12 hours

Ingredients
  • 5 stems of fresh rosemary (16 g)
  • 3 cups water (608 g)
  • 2 tbs organic honey
  • 1/2 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice (110 g), about 4 large lemons
Method

Cover rosemary in a saucepan with water. Bring to a boil, then turn down the heat to low and cover. Simmer for 20 minutes. Strain and discard rosemary. Stir in the honey and lemon juice. Stir until the honey is dissolved.

Add just enough water to the lemonade to bring it up to 2 3/4 cups (720 g). Fill the popsicle molds, leaving about 1/8″ (3-4 mm) headspace at the top. Wipe the top dry, place the lid on top, and insert popsicle sticks. Freeze overnight or for at least 8 hours.

To release the pops, turn the mold on its side and run water over the mold on both sides. Gently wiggle the popsicle stick to remove the popsicle.

Store popsicles in a covered container with parchment layered between the popsicles for up to one week.

Recipe modified from https://vanillaandbean.com/rosemary-lemonade-popsicles/

Rosemary Tea

Due to its stimulant properties, rosemary tea is an invigorating tonic and astringent. Warm rosemary tea is diaphoretic (sweats out toxins). Therefore, it is a good remedy for colds.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes Ingredients
  • 1 sprig fresh rosemary
  • 1-2 cups boiling water
  • 1 tsp organic honey (optional)

Method

Rinse sprig to remove any dirt and debris.

Place rosemary in boiling water for 3 minutes to steep.
When the flavor has reached your desired level, remove the sprig.

Fill a mug halfway and add honey until dissolved. Serve and enjoy.

Rosemary Lemonade Popsicles

A great treat for summer!

Preparation Time: 10 to 12 hours

Ingredients
  • 5 stems of fresh rosemary (16 g)
  • 3 cups water (608 g)
  • 2 tbs organic honey
  • 1/2 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice (110 g), about 4 large lemons
Method

Cover rosemary in a saucepan with water. Bring to a boil, then turn down the heat to low and cover. Simmer for 20 minutes. Strain and discard rosemary. Stir in the honey and lemon juice. Stir until the honey is dissolved.

Add just enough water to the lemonade to bring it up to 2 3/4 cups (720 g). Fill the popsicle molds, leaving about 1/8″ (3-4 mm) headspace at the top. Wipe the top dry, place the lid on top, and insert popsicle sticks. Freeze overnight or for at least 8 hours.

To release the pops, turn the mold on its side and run water over the mold on both sides. Gently wiggle the popsicle stick to remove the popsicle.

Store popsicles in a covered container with parchment layered between the popsicles for up to one week.

Recipe modified from https://vanillaandbean.com/rosemary-lemonade-popsicles/

Rosemary-Lemon All-Purpose Cleaning Spray

Perfect for cleaning your counters, sinks, and surfaces.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients
  • 2 sprigs rosemary
  • Peel of 2 lemons
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 cups white vinegar
Method In a one-quart jar, combine rosemary, lemon peel, water, and vinegar. Allow to rest 10-14 days in a cool location to allow oils to infuse. Strain lemon peel and rosemary, and transfer liquid to a spray bottle for use. If desired, the lemon peel and rosemary may be placed directly inside the spray bottle. The scent will intensify over time before breaking down, and the bottle will look great sitting on the shelf.

Final Thoughts

The history of rosemary and its affinity for supporting your neurological system should be reason enough to add this beautiful herb to your spice collection and garden. Add to that its ability to clear away unwanted thoughts, lift negative thinking in favor of a positive attitude, and aid concentration. Can it get any better than that? Rosemary essential oil is also great to use in potpourris or sachets to replace chemical-ridden dryer balls or sheets. Uplift your spirit today by enhancing your home or workspace with a potted rosemary plant.

About the Author

M. Moriah Mor, ND, CHN, is a Naturopathic Practitioner, Certified Holistic Nutritionist, and founder of GreenSilk.com. She is dedicated to helping people live healthier lifestyles through education, nutrition, and premium natural health products. With more than 18 years in the wellness field, Moriah is a graduate of the Energetic Health Institute, AMCC, and the University of Southern California. She is passionate about researching the latest breakthroughs in holistic health.

M. Moriah Mor, ND, CHN, is a Naturopathic Practitioner, Certified Holistic Nutritionist, and founder of GreenSilk.com. She is dedicated to helping people live healthier lifestyles through education, nutrition, and premium natural health products. With more than 18 years in the wellness field, Moriah is a graduate of the Energetic Health Institute, AMCC, and the University of Southern California. She is passionate about researching the latest breakthroughs in holistic health.

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Article Citations

  1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32963731/#:~:text=In%20folk%20medicine%2C%20it%20has,properties%20as%20their%20main%20topics
  2. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/320756810_The_Effects_of_Rosmarinus_officinalis_Rosemary_Aqueous_Extract_on_Smooth_Muscle_Contractions_in_Isolated_Rat_Urinary_Bladder
  3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11493722/
  4. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/320756810_The_Effects_of_Rosmarinus_officinalis_Rosemary_Aqueous_Extract_on_Smooth_Muscle_Contractions_in_Isolated_Rat_Urinary_Bladder
  5. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnins.2022.909833/full
  6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3736918/
  7. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2314808X16301890
  8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3736918/#:~:text=Taken%20together%20these%20findings%20strongly,and%20so%20perpetuating%20cholinergic%20stimulation
  9. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/cineole
  10. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7491497/#:~:text=Phytochemical%20studies%20revealed%20that%20rosemary,flavonoids%20(20%2D22)
  11. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8430571/
  12. https://wildfoodsandmedicines.com/rosemary/
  13. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7491497/
  14. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5316267/
  15. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/342783272_Therapeutic_effects_of_rosemary_Rosmarinus_officinalis_L_and_its_active_constituents_on_nervous_system_disorders
  16. https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/herb/rosemary#:~:text=Because%20higher%20doses%20of%20rosemary,colitis%20should%20not%20take%20rosemary
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