Rosemary
Rosemary (Rosemarinus officinalis)
Brief Background:
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis Linn.) is a common dense, evergreen, aromatic shrub grown in many parts of the world. The fresh and dried leaves are used frequently in traditional Mediterranean cuisine as a flavoring agent and as a food preservative.
Historically, rosemary has been used as a medicinal agent to treat colic. It has also been used to relieve symptoms caused by respiratory disorders. Extracts of rosemary are used in aromatherapy to treat anxiety-related conditions and to increase alertness.
The most researched constituents of rosemary are caffeic acid and its derivative rosmarinic acid. These compounds are thought to have antioxidant effects and are being studied as potential therapies for cancer, hepatotoxicity, and inflammatory conditions.
Expert Opinion and Historic Precedent:
Rosemary leaf is used for treatment of dyspepsia and rosemary oil (used externally) for joint pain and poor circulation.
Some alternative practitioners use rosemary extract for aromatherapy to promote wellbeing. Rosemary has also been used as an aromatherapy agent used in air diffusers, creams, lotions, oils, incense, and other products. Current cosmetic uses of rosemary include treating cellulite and wrinkles, and normalizing oily skin.
In Morocco, rosemary is traditionally used to treat diabetes and hypertension. According to an ethnobotanical survey conducted among the Carib population of Guatemala in 1988-1989, Rosmarinus officinalis is found in the region and is used medicinally.
Derived from the Latin word “dew of the sea”, In Shakespeare’s “Hamlet, “Ophelia refers to the herb, “there’s rosemary, that’s for remembrance”. The rosemary’s Spanish name is “Romero”, or “Pilgrim’s Flower.” Rosemary has been known as an, anti ageing, antibacterial, antioxidant, poor circulation, and wrinkle preventative.
Natural Beauty: Rosemary can be used in the bath, on the face, and as a scalp massage. Rosemary has the ability to stimulate hair follicles and hair growth. It is believed to slow down or permanently stop premature hair loss and grey hair.
Rosemary will soothe and condition dry, flaky scalp. When applied to the roots and scalp, rosemary is helpful in clearing many cases of dandruff.
