Rosemary

Introduction

Rosemary is a small evergreen shrub with thick aromatic leaves and small pale-blue flowers that bloom in late winter and early spring. Native to the Mediterranean, it is now cultivated worldwide. Rosemary is a popular culinary spice used in traditional medicine for its various properties, including astringent, tonic, carminative, antispasmodic, and diuretic effects. It has also been used to promote menstrual flow and as an abortifacient. Additionally, rosemary extracts are standard in cosmetics, and a lotion made from the plant is believed to stimulate hair growth and prevent baldness. Historically, rosemary has been recognized for enhancing mental function and memory.

Common Names

• Rosemary
• Old Man

Latin Name

• Rosmarinus

Uses

Rosemary is reported to:

• Decrease capillary permeability and fragility
• Serve as an insect repellent
• Exhibit potential anticancer properties
• Provide spasmolytic actions and support liver and immune function
• Assist in treatments ranging from asthma to aromatherapy
• Display antimicrobial effects against various bacteria, fungi, mold, and viruses

Application

The German Commission E has approved Rosemary leaf for:

• Dyspepsia
• High blood pressure
• Rheumatism Recommended doses are 4 to 6 grams per day. The essential oil is used at doses of 0.1 to 1 mL.

Scientific Insights

Rosemary is generally recognized as safe when used as food. However, it is advised to avoid dosages exceeding those found in food due to unproven safety and efficacy at higher levels. It is known to have emmenagogue and abortifacient effects.

Side Effects and Cautions

• Certain molds may grow on rosemary.

Sources

• Information was accessed from Drugs.com and Wikipedia as of February 7, 2009.

This summary captures the essential details regarding rosemary, including its uses, applications, and scientific insights.