Rosemary, or the Latin name rosmarinus officinalis, is an evergreen which is native to southern Europe. The leaves of this evergreen bush are needle-shaped and grayish green in color. Rosemary is wonderfully and distinctively aromatic and as a result is often used as a seasoning.Though most commonly thought of as a kitchen spice, utilized in the roasting of savory dishes, rosemary is also a very potent healer.
It's most common medicinal uses include the relief of menstrual cramps, aiding digestion, and possibly even cancer prevention. Rosemary is a wonderful replacement for aspirin. It is very effective in the treatment of headaches. Other benefits include the treatment of colic, nausea, gas, and fever.
This fragrant evergreen is diaphoretic, astringent, and stimulating. As a stimulant rosemary helps to increase energy and give the body strength. Stimulants also speed circulation, create a feeling of warmth, and remove obstruction such as in the case of congestion. Rosemary is a wonderful remedy for individuals suffering from poor circulation.
This herb also contains a small amount of antiseptic. As a result rosemary is fairly effective at preventing infection, and eliminating the microorganisms which cause disease and decay. In addition, rosemary leaves are coated with oils which are mildly antibiotic when ingested. Rosemary is also a vulnerary. When applied to a wound or taken internally rosemary will encourage cell growth and repair. These qualities make for faster healing and recovery.
In addition, rosemary oil is a powerful antioxidant. Antioxidants are best known for preventing cancer. Rosemary prevents fats from oxygen damage, which is a known cancer risk. Perhaps it is for this reason that rosemary leaf extract has shown promising potential at preventing cancerous tumors from developing.
Indeed, rosemary appears to be a very potent cancer preventing plant. Preliminary studies have shown rosemary to be effective at preventing a variety of cancers including that of the colon, breast and lung. It seems to matter little whether rosemary is topically applied to the skin, consumed in foods, or sipped in tea.
A common ratio for rosemary tea consists of one teaspoon fresh or dried herb to one cup boiling water. When steeping a rosemary tea be sure to keep the liquid covered. Left uncovered, rosemary's essential volatile oils will escape, along with some of the healing properties.
Aside from cancer prevention, rosemary has some wonderful properties. First and foremost, it is a relaxant. Rosemary calms, soothes, and relaxes muscles. This quality makes rosemary the perfect choice to soothe the muscles of the digestive tract and promote relaxation. Rosemary tea is a wonderful curative for indigestion. Rosemary also has a calming effect on the muscles of the uterus. These same properties make rosemary a marvelous remedy for the relief of menstrual cramping. Rosemary's calming powers also provide relief from inflamed joints.
One property is beneficial to cooks and health advocates alike. When rosemary oil is added to foods, it acts like preservative, preventing fats from becoming rancid. Rosemary is also very rich in the essential nutrient calcium. As a result, rosemary works wonders for the nervous system.
Rosemary's reputation for boosting brain function, particularly memory, is not yet proven. However, a strong rosemary tea does make a marvelous hair rinse, invigorating the scalp, strengthening roots, and adding a delightful scent to one's hair.
The dried plant material may be smoked to ease a cough, asthma, or congestion. Rosemary will provide near immediate relief upon smoking. However, this benefit is temporary and will not heal the condition. For immediate relief, this is a wonderful option. It is still important to also identify the cause of these ailments for more permanent relief.
As with any remedy, small amounts work miracles, while large doses may be dangerous. Therefore, one should take caution when using this herb. When in doubt, always consult a health care practitioner. Mega-doses of rosemary, particularly rosemary oil, can cause intestinal irritation or even cramping. With safety in mind, it is best to avoid internal use of rosemary oil altogether. Instead, choose dried leaves or tinctures.