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remedies. Herbalists recommend rosemary tea as an antidote for forgetfulness and mental fatigue, as well as for improving mental agility. Inhaling the vapour from crushed leaves with the eyes closed will clear the mind. The scent caused by crushed rosemary leaves in bathwater is used to ease the discomfort of rheumatism.

The essential oils of rosemary's leaves contain tannin and resin. It has antibacterial properties, making it is an effective gargle for soothing and treating a sore throat when mixed with hot water. Rosemary oil induces profuse perspiration, so it can be effective against colds and chills when a few drops are added to a drink. It clears respiratory congestions, providing effective relief for sinuses while relieving asthma and catarrh. A few drops of rosemary oil added to bathwater will stimulate both circulation and the nerves, so it should only be used with morning baths.

Rosemary oil's analgesic properties make it effective for treating sore muscles, arthritis and rheumatism. Its stimulant properties mean it benefits the liver and gall bladder, and helps lower high blood sugar levels.

While rosemary may well prove to be a source for what some now claim could be "the perfect drug", it's been a staple of many cuisines since the Greeks and Romans first used it to flavour food and wine. The leaves have a strong aroma and flavour, often described as similar to camphor. Rosemary can be used fresh or dried, and is a traditional companion to roast lamb and many venison or game dishes. The fresh, tender leaves are an excellent garnish to cold drinks, soups and pickles. Dried and powdered they enhance the flavour of meat, fish and poultry dishes, sausages, jams, vinegar, oils, wine and butter. A sprig of rosemary used in barbecue coals brings a wonderful flavour to grilled meat.

Traditionally rosemary has been associated with weddings and funerals, because of its mystic symbolisation of loyalty, love, friendship and immortality. Greek brides, believing rosemary was a gift from Aphrodite, the goddess of love, wore it in wreaths to symbolise their fidelity. Rosemary was believed to strengthen the heart as well as the memory.

Hair products containing the pure extract of rosemary are recommended to rejuvenate the scalp, preventing dandruff and premature baldness. When a branch of rosemary is boiled in water, then strained and cooled the remaining liquid is a very effect final hair rinse. As rosemary increases circulation and is an effective stimulant so it also invigorates the hair follicles and helps the scalp deal with conditions like scurf and dandruff.

Rosemary is also beneficial to the skin, tightening it and reducing bloating and puffiness. It is said Queen Elizabeth of Hungary, who reigned in the 14th century, was well aware of the benefits of rosemary, using the herb to treat her rheumatism and gout. She used a potion of rosemary and lavender, which was so effective at maintaining the queen's health and beauty the King of Poland fell in love with her, and asked her to marry him. This caused great controversy at the time, because the 72 year old Queen Elizabeth's suitor was just 26 years old at the time. Consequently, Elizabeth's potion of choice became known as Budapest or Hungary Water, and was a popular beauty product for women all over Europe for several centuries.

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