Rosemary

Rosemary originates from the shores of the mediterranean sea but even though it grows best in warm, humid climates, it can be grown year-around indoors anywhere. Rosemary leaves are commonly used as a flavoring in foods. The fresh or dried leaves are often used in traditional Mediterranean cuisine. The leaves have a bitter, astringent taste and an aroma which complements many cooked foods. 

Rosemary oil can be inhaled or applied directly to the skin. When applying to the skin, beware that the oil is very concentrated, so it is recommended that you dilute the oil with a carrier oil, such as jojoba oil.

Rosemary essential oil is often used to increase blood circulation, improve memory, and might help hair follicles grow when applied to the scalp. The diluted essential oil is known to help protect the skin from sun damage.

Rosemary Uses

• Food flavoring
• Improving memory
• Stimulating hair growth
• Pain relief
• May increase circulation
• May reduce joint inflammation
• Bug repellant

Side Effects of Rosemary

• When used on the skin: Rosemary oil may cause allergic reactions in some people.
• When taken by mouth: Rosemary leaf is commonly consumed in foods and is considered safe for most people. But taking undiluted rosemary oil or very large amounts of rosemary leaf is likely unsafe and could cause vomiting, sun sensitivity, and/or skin redness.

Contraindications Related to Rosemary

• When pregnant, rosemary, in high amounts, should be avoided as a food. Taken in high amounts could result in a miscarriage.
• Rosemary contains a chemical that is very similar to aspirin. This chemical may cause a reaction in people who are allergic to aspirin.
• Salsalate (Disalcid) is known to interact with rosemary. Since rosemary also contains a salicylate, taking salsalate with rosemary might increase the risk for side effects from salicylates.
• Rosemary might increase the risk of bleeding and bruising in people with bleeding disorders.
• Rosemary might worsen seizure disorders.

Origins of Rosemary

Mediterranean region and Asia