Organic Rosemary Leaf - Whole (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Herbs are Sold By the Ounce, Price is Per Ounce

Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus, formerly Rosmarinus officinalis)

Family:

Lamiaceae

Common Names:

Dew of the Sea, Compass Weed, Polar Plant

Origin:

Native to the Mediterranean region, now cultivated worldwide in temperate climates.

Parts Used:

Leaves, Stems, Flowers

Habitat:

Rosemary thrives in well-drained soil with full sun exposure. It is commonly grown in USDA zones 7-10 but can be cultivated in pots or indoors in cooler climates. It is often found in herb gardens, coastal areas, and rocky slopes.

History and Folklore:

Rosemary has a rich history in culinary, medicinal, and spiritual traditions. It was considered sacred in ancient Greece, Rome, and Egypt. The Greeks used it to improve memory, while in medieval Europe, it was believed to ward off evil spirits. Rosemary was also a symbol of fidelity and was often used in weddings and funerals. In addition, it has long been associated with remembrance and was often used in memorial rituals.

Metaphysical Properties:

Rosemary is associated with protection, clarity, and remembrance. It is often used in rituals to cleanse spaces, enhance memory, and promote mental clarity. It’s also believed to bring about love and loyalty when used in love spells or rituals.

Botany:

Rosemary is an evergreen shrub that can grow up to 3-5 feet tall. It has needle-like, aromatic leaves that are dark green on top and silvery underneath. The plant produces small, pale blue to white flowers that attract bees and other pollinators. The leaves contain essential oils, which give rosemary its characteristic scent and medicinal properties.

Growing and Harvesting:

Rosemary can be grown from seeds, cuttings, or transplants. It prefers a sunny location and well-drained soil, and it’s drought-tolerant once established. The leaves can be harvested year-round, but the best time is just before the plant flowers, when the oil content is highest. Leaves can be used fresh or dried for culinary and medicinal purposes.

Constituents:

• Rosmarinic Acid: A powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound.
• Camphor: A terpene with antimicrobial and stimulant properties.
• Carnosic Acid: An antioxidant that protects the brain and nervous system.
• Ursolic Acid: An anti-inflammatory compound that also supports skin health.
• Flavonoids: Antioxidants that support overall health and reduce inflammation.

Energetics:

• Temperature: Warming
• Taste: Pungent, Bitter, Aromatic

Medicinal Actions:

• Cognitive Enhancer: Improves memory, concentration, and mental clarity.
• Antimicrobial: Fights bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
• Antioxidant: Protects cells from oxidative stress and supports overall health.
• Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation throughout the body.
• Digestive Aid: Stimulates digestion, relieves bloating, and improves appetite.
• Circulatory Stimulant: Enhances blood flow and supports cardiovascular health.

System Affinities:

• Nervous System: Enhances cognitive function, reduces stress, and supports mental clarity.
• Digestive System: Stimulates bile flow, improves digestion, and alleviates digestive discomfort.
• Circulatory System: Promotes healthy circulation and reduces inflammation.
• Respiratory System: Helps clear congestion and supports respiratory health.
• Skin: Used topically to treat minor wounds, infections, and to improve skin tone.

Uses:

• Tea: Rosemary tea is often used to improve digestion, boost memory, and relieve headaches.
• Essential Oil: Applied topically or diffused to enhance memory, reduce pain, and improve mood.
• Tincture: Used for cognitive support, digestive issues, and to enhance circulation.
• Culinary: A popular herb in Mediterranean cuisine, used to flavor meats, vegetables, and breads.
• Hair Rinse: Rosemary-infused water is used as a hair rinse to promote hair growth and improve scalp health.

Cautions:

• Pregnancy: High doses of rosemary should be avoided during pregnancy, as it may stimulate menstruation or uterine contractions.
• Epilepsy: The camphor in rosemary essential oil may trigger seizures in individuals with epilepsy.
• High Blood Pressure: Rosemary may increase blood pressure, so individuals with hypertension should use it cautiously.

Scientific Studies:

1. A study published in Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology found that rosemary essential oil improved memory speed and accuracy in adults.
2. Research in the Journal of Food Science highlighted rosemary’s antioxidant properties, confirming its ability to protect cells from oxidative damage.
3. A study in Phytotherapy Research demonstrated rosemary’s anti-inflammatory effects, particularly in reducing symptoms of osteoarthritis.