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The Many Uses for Rosemary Herb
Rosemary is a versatile herb that can be used in everything from culinary dishes to medicinal preparations. In fact, you’ll never want for uses for rosemary herb once you start growing your own. It’s an easy herb to grow both indoors and outdoors and is definitely worth your time and effort as you will soon discover. In this post, we’re going to explore the many reasons why this versatile herb should be on every herbalist’s list of things to grow!
Some Reasons to Grow Rosemary
- Rosemary is an easy herb to grow indoors and may add a beautiful, fragrant element to a kitchen.
- Growing your own herbs can save money and potentially ensures you have fresh flavors all year long.
- You can use rosemary in a variety of recipes, from savory to sweet, making it easy for beginners to explore new dishes with this versatile herb.
- Rosemary is considered one of the easiest herbs to grow indoors.
- No yard? That’s okay because rosemary can do wonderfully in pots and may make great patio plants.
- Rosemary is known to deter pests in gardens. Its powerful aroma might distract pests from finding the plants they want. So, adding more fragrant plants to your garden may help with pest deterrence.
- Like most culinary herbs, rosemary is loaded with antioxidants and vitamins, and it contains natural compounds that are said to be anti-inflammatory and antiseptic. It is also a source of minerals, such as iron, potassium, manganese, copper, magnesium, and potassium.
- Rosemary has been traditionally used to help alleviate muscle pain.
- Rosemary is known for potentially improving memory. Some studies, like those by British researchers, found that simply sniffing rosemary might improve memory by up to 75%. Its leaves contain carnosic acid, which may protect the brain from free radical damage. Other compounds in the herb are said to promote healthy blood flow to brain tissue and have a stimulating effect on the mind.
- Rosemary is believed to boost the immune and circulatory systems. It’s full of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-carcinogenic properties, which might make rosemary helpful for protecting your health, especially during winter months.
- Rosemary has been known to promote hair growth. Rosemary oil is said to increase blood circulation and is used by some people to treat hair loss and dandruff by improving scalp condition.
- Rosemary is drought tolerant, which means it may require less care than other plants.
- Rosemary oil is known for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which might make it a useful chronic pain reliever when rubbed into affected areas.
- Smelling rosemary is said to lower cortisol levels and might help with stress relief.
- Drinking rosemary tea may help with the production of bile and therefore aid in digestion.
- Rosemary contains a eucalyptol compound that is said to loosen chest congestion, potentially making it easier to cough up phlegm. Some people rub a few drops of rosemary oil onto their chest for relief.
- Inhaling the fragrance or drinking rosemary tea is believed to help with headaches and migraines.
- Rosemary might soothe skin irritations with its antimicrobial and antiseptic properties. It is known to be beneficial for those with eczema and dermatitis.
How Do I Grow Rosemary Indoors?
I absolutely love fresh rosemary. Its versatility is endless, from its uniquely delicious flavor in culinary dishes, to its medicinal uses, this herb is hard to beat.
Growing rosemary indoors is a great way to have fresh herbs on hand all year long. The best part is that it’s one of the easiest plants to grow and maintain!
If you’re thinking about growing rosemary indoors, the process is pretty easy, even if you have no green thumb! Simply plant your rosemary in pots filled with potting soil or garden soil if you’re using trays, then place them in a sunny location where they’ll get eight hours of full sunlight per day. Be sure not to overwater these hardy plants as they prefer drier conditions than most other houseplants – only water when the top inch or so has dried out completely.
How to Grow Rosemary Outdoors?
Growing rosemary outdoors is as easy as planting a few sprigs in the ground. You can also plant it with other herbs like thyme, chives, and oregano to create your own mixed herb garden or even cook together for added flavor!
To plant rosemary from seeds outdoors, prepare your garden beds with a generous layer of compost or organic material, and then sprinkle your seeds and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Water daily to keep the soil moist until it sprouts. Plant in an area that receives at least eight hours of full sunlight per day,
If you choose to purchase rosemary seedlings all you have to do to plant them is gently remove from the potting soil, make a hole in your prepared soil with your fingers and plant them at least 12 inches apart.
Note: If you live in cold climates, check the cold hardiness map for best practices for your particular zone. I live in the northeast, so I plant my rosemary in pots and winter them over in the house to ensure they survive our frigid New England winters.
Medicinal Properties and Uses of Rosemary
Some of the medicinal uses and health benefits of rosemary include:
- Rosemary is known for being a good source of vitamin A, biotin, iron, potassium, manganese, copper, and magnesium.
- It may help improve memory, as it contains carnosic acid, which has been used historically for this purpose.
- Rosemary contains natural anti-inflammatory properties.
- Known for its warming and stimulating qualities, rosemary is often used to ease colds and flu.
- It may be an effective herb for easing stomach issues, including indigestion, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, or gas.
- Rosemary-infused oil is commonly used for the relief of minor aches and pains, sore and aching muscles, and as a scalp treatment for thinning hair or dandruff.
- It is believed to potentially strengthen the heartbeat and increase arterial blood flow.
- Rosemary contains various types of flavonoids that may help strengthen capillaries and counteract blood vessel fragility, including spider veins and varicose veins.
- In some cultures, rosemary is believed to have aphrodisiac properties, though belief in this folk medicine varies by individual opinion.
Preparing Rosemary for Medicine
Rosemary Tincture
Rosemary is known for its beneficial properties for the cardiovascular system. It contains various flavonoids that are thought to support capillary health and may help with the appearance of spider veins and varicose veins. Additionally, rosemary is believed to support a healthy heartbeat and improve arterial blood flow.
Rosemary tinctures are a popular way to prepare this herb for wellness purposes. There are several methods to make tinctures, but they all require fresh or dried herbs and alcohol, along with time for the mixture to infuse. Below is a straightforward method that’s perfect for beginners.
Directions:
- Place fresh rosemary in a jar until it’s 2/3 full.
- Pour high-proof alcohol (vodka or brandy) over the herbs until the alcohol level is an inch above the top of the herbs. If using dry herbs, they may absorb the liquid, so check and add alcohol as needed.
- Cover tightly with a lid and place the jar in a dark cupboard and allow to soak or macerate for 4-6 weeks.
- Give the jar a gentle shake every 2-3 days. Make sure the plant material is still covered with alcohol. If not, add more alcohol.
- After 4-6 weeks, strain your liquid from the plant material. To strain, you can pour your liquid through a fine mesh sieve into another wide mouth jar, or through cheesecloth. If using cheesecloth, squeeze the bundle tightly to get all the liquid out. Whatever you prefer is fine.
- Allow the liquid to settle overnight. Strain again if necessary.
- Transfer into labeled, amber bottles and store in dark place.
Rosemary Tea
Rosemary tea is also a favorite among herbalists, and it’s easy to make. Simply steep a few sprigs of the herb in hot water for around five minutes before straining out any pieces that didn’t get fully brewed (this happens quite often with rosemary).
You can also use a tea infusion to help with blemishes. Follow the steps below to create a natural blemish treatment.
Directions:
- Boil one small pot of water.
- Sprinkle in some fresh-picked rosemary (amounts vary, but it’s ultimately up to you) and let it simmer.
- Once you have this pine-like, mint essence perfuming your home, set it aside and allow for it to chill for a few minutes.
- Splash the chilled rosemary water on a clean face, then allow your face to air-dry.
- Enjoy clean skin and a fresh smelling face.
Rosemary Inhalent
Inhaling rosemary can be a soothing practice that may provide relief from allergies, congestion, headaches, and stress.
Directions:
- Add some dried or fresh buds to boiling water on the stovetop.
- Cover your head with a towel.
- Stand over the steamy liquid and lower your face to create a tent over the steamy liquid.
- The heat will open up pores while providing relief from congestion.
Oil Infusions
An herbal oil infusion of rosemary can be applied to the scalp to soothe an itchy, dry head. Rosemary’s high concentration of antioxidants also makes it a good anti-inflammatory agent for muscles and joints. Applying this herb topically will provide relief from muscle soreness and stiffness as well.
Salve
Rosemary, known for its antimicrobial and antiseptic qualities, can be a comforting addition to skincare routines. This salve recipe is particularly gentle and soothing, making it a great choice for those seeking relief from common skin irritations like eczema and dermatitis.
Ingredients:
- A handful of fresh rosemary leaves (or sprigs)
- Approximately five to six tablespoons of olive oil or coconut oil
- Three teaspoons beeswax pastilles/cubes
Directions:
- Chop up rosemary leaves into small pieces before adding them to a saucepan with your oils.
- Set it on low heat while stirring occasionally until the mixture has reached room temperature.
- Add in three teaspoons worth of beeswax cubes or pastilles and stir vigorously as they melt completely. The mixture should be fairly liquidy—if not, add more olive oil.
- After you’ve got an even consistency, pour the salve into glass jars.
How Do I Preserve Rosemary?
Preserving is a great way to make the most of your harvest. One simple way is by drying it- here’s how:
The process couldn’t be any easier! Simply hang bundles upside down in an airy place for six weeks or so, and then store them away from sunlight until you’re ready to use them again.
Rosemary can also be preserved through freezing—you’ll need good quality ice cube trays (made with food-safe material). Fill each compartment halfway with water and add two sprigs of fresh rosemary leaves per tray; freeze
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Disclaimer:
The Outdoor Apothecary website is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. The information provided is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, it is the reader’s responsibility to ensure proper plant identification and usage.
Please be aware that some plants are poisonous or can have serious adverse health effects. We are not health professionals, medical doctors, or nutritionists. It is essential to consult with qualified professionals for verification of nutritional information, health benefits, and any potential risks associated with edible and medicinal plants mentioned on this website.
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