Rosemary is sometimes called the herb of remembrance because it has been known as a memory enhancer. Due to its reputation as a memory aid, the ancient Greeks placed sprigs of rosemary in their hair whilst studying. Similarly sprigs of rosemary were placed on graves as a sign of remembrance. The well known Queen of Hungary water uses rosemary oil. The rose was once a symbol for the Virgin Mary and this herb contains both her symbol and her name in its title. Thus carrying rosemary, or using it, was believed to impart the blessings and protection of the Mother Mary. Tradition states that a rosemary bush will grow for exactly thirty-three years and then die, mirroring the lifespan of Christ until his crucifixion.
It contains carsonol which is a potent detoxification enzyme. It stabilises both high and low blood pressure, treats headaches, vertigo, colds, and is an antiseptic. Rosemary contains antioxidants and other compounds that prevent the breakdown of acetyl choline. It also contains substances which stimulate the immune system, aid digestion, and increases circulation. Its anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce the severity of asthma attacks. The scent of rosemary is effective in cupboards to repel fish-moths. Added to the bath it stimulates circulation. Used in cooking it aids the body in the breaking up of fats. Rosemary is also known as “dew of the sea” as this is the direct translation of Rosmarinus, its Latin name. Rosemary essential oil has a toning effect on the skin and helps to decongest a stuffy nose. The tea used as a facewash is said to fade freckles and reduce wrinkles.
* Acetyl choline is a neurotransmitter. Low levels of acetyl choline has been linked to Alzheimer's disease.
Rosemary contains iron, calcium, and dietary fibre. In modern times many people have awed at the longevity and health of the Mediterranean people. As rosemary is native to the Mediterranean it comes as no surprise that medical research revealed that the essential oil of rosemary is effective against cancer. The department of Food Science at Rutgers University (New Brunswick, New Jersey) has revealed in preliminary studies with animals that applying the essential oil to the skin of animals with cancer reduced the illness by half. When included in the diet these animals again showed a decrease of incidence by half in both lung and colon cancers. The University of Illinois has found that usage of the herb in the diet reduced breast cancer risk, again by half. Although these studies are fascinating and encouraging one should NEVER ingest rosemary essential oil or self medicate with the oil. Only the fresh herb is safe for consumption.
When planting your own rosemary in the garden consider the fact that rosemary makes an excellent companion plant to cabbage and carrots as it deters cabbage moths and carrot flies. The pagan witch would use rosemary as a hedge bordering her herb and vegetable garden, as a barrier evil could not penetrate. Failing that she would plant one rosemary bush in each corner of her herb garden.
Considering all of these fabulous properties of an unsung herb, perhaps you shall consider it more often when baking cheese biscuits or roasting a lamb. (we use it when we make focaccia). It is certainly worthy of inclusion in the diet and in the garden!
In my garden it grows without fanfare. As long as it gets water and sunshine it will grow for years and years, spreading itself out and growing as high as your waist. The thick leafed rosemary is preferable as a herb to the thin leafed variety.