Parts Used
Properties
Common Uses
Locating and Handling
Caution
Origin
"Our garden Rosemary is so well known, that I need not describe it. It flowers in April and May with us, sometimes again in August.
It is an herb of as great use with us in these days as any whatsoever, not only for physical but civil purposes. The physical use of it (being my present task) is very much used both for inward and outward diseases, for by the warming and comforting heat thereof it helps all cold diseases, both of the head, stomach, liver, and belly. . .
It helps a weak memory, and quickens the senses. It is very comfortable to the stomach in all the cold griefs thereof, helps both retention of meat, and digestion, the decoction or powder being taken in wine. It is a remedy for the windiness in the stomach, bowels, and spleen, and expels it powerfully. . .
Both Dioscorides and Galen say, That if a decoction be made thereof with water, and they that have the yellow jaundice exercise their bodies presently after taking thereof, it will certainly cure them. The flowers and conserve made of them, are singularly good to comfort the heart, and to expel the contagion of the pestilence; to burn the herb in houses and chambers, corrects the air in them."
Leaves and flowers
Aromatic, antiseptic, astringent, diaphoretic, anti-depressant , anti-spasmodic, carminative, digestive aid, tonic
Drink in tea to aid digestion or to calm nervous tension. Rosemary is believed to increase circulation, relieve headaches and aid in fighting off infections. It is frequently found in combination with other herbs in creams and salves to ease muscle soreness. As a seasoning, it works well with most foods. May be used together with sage as a natural preservative.
Purchase fresh or dried at the grocery store. Oil is available at health food stores.
Large amounts of the oil taken internally may irritate the stomach.
Medeterranean region
(image to come)