The Lore and Lure of: ROSEMARY
There’s rosemary, that’s for remembrance; pray you, love, remember.
-William Shakespeare (Hamlet)
Rosemary, native to the Mediterranean, is a woody evergreen universally associated with enhancing memory and recall. Commonly used as a culinary herb, the rosemary bush is a member of the mint family which includes lavender, basil, thyme and sage, among others. It takes its name from the Latin ros maris, which means “dew of the sea.” According to Christian legend, while fleeing to Egypt, the Virgin Mary laid her blue cloak over a white-blossomed rosemary bush to dry and when she later removed it, the white blossoms had turned to blue. The shrub then became known as the “Rose of Mary.” In Greek folklore, rosemary is often associated with Aphrodite, as it is said she was draped in it while being birthed from the sea.
Rosemary was also used to ward off evil spirits and nightmares, and worn around the neck as protection from The Plague. In French hospitals it is customary to burn rosemary and juniper berries to purify the air and prevent infection. It is also an excellent source of iron, calcium, and vitamin B-6.
Rosemary has a range of possible health benefits:
- rich in anti-oxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds
- thought to improve digestion
- could assist in relief of respiratory issues
- encourages the relief of tense or aching muscles
- could aid in memory retention, recall and concentration, and neurological protection
- believed to stimulate hair-growth
- boost the immune and circulatory system
Its fragrance is restorative, purifying, reviving, refreshing and stimulating!
Not all rosemary essential oil is created equal.
Rosemary has 6 different chemotypes, meaning the chemical constituents and therapeutic properties vary depending on where it was grown. The following are the 3 most common types:
-Rosmarinus Officinalis ct. camphor -- (high in ketones, best for muscle aches and pains, addresses joint discomfort and has diuretic and circulatory benefits)
-Rosmarinus Officinalis ct. 1,8-cineole -- (high in oxides, has antiviral, anti fungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory properties; expectorant, digestive stimulant, better choice for alleviating respiratory issues, stimulates hair follicles to encourage new growth)
-Rosmarinus Officinalis ct. verbenone -- (has ketones and monoterpenes which help prevent the accumulation of toxins; antispasmotic, expectorant, antibacterial, anti depressive, calmative, also good for respiratory issues)
For more info on rosemary chemotypes -http://www.jeannerose.net/articles/rosemary_chemotypes.html
Some considerations and precautions: rosemary essential oil should not be used by pregnant or nursing women, people taking anticoagulant drugs, those being treated for high blood pressure, or are currently taking lithium. Use with caution around children and infants.
Shop Leaf and Lore products containing ROSEMARY
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*This disclaimer is required by the FDA. The information provided here (regarding essential oils and other herbal products) has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, cure, treat, or prevent any disease. The information on this website and customer testimonials are for educational purposes only and not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical professional. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their health care provider before using essential oils or herbal products; and also those who take medication daily. It is advised that you do a patch test to check for any allergic reactions or sensitivity to essential oils before using freely.