Name
The latin name Rosmarinus is a compound word: “Ros” means “Dew” and “Marinus” means “of the sea”. So Rosmarinus stands for “Dew of the Sea” as the plant grows well near the sea-coast and sea-foam sprays upon it.
Officinalis (meaning ‘of the workshop’) is a common species name and it denotes medicinal plants.
Also Known as
- rosemary
- sea dew
- our lady’s rose
- rosemarine
- compass weed
- incensier
- mary’s mantle
- old man
- polar plant
Identification Keys
- perennial herb
- bushy evergreen shrub
- height up to 2m
- aromatic linear, leathery, with enrolled margins leaves
- leaf size: 2-4cm × 1.2-3.5mm
- leaf color: bright green and wrinkled above, white-tomentose beneath,
- stalkless leaves
- inflorescence and flower stalks with star-shaped hairs almost hairless and distinctly veined
- calyx 3-4mm when young, later 5-7mm,
- corolla 10-12mm, pale blue (rarely pink or white)
- nutlets brown
Bloom Time
- summer
Habitat
- full sun
- sandy, well-limed soil
Medicine Uses
Parts Used
Aerial parts
Actions
diaphoretic, carminative, emmenagogic, nervine, antioxidant, cholagogue, thymoleptic, decongestant, antispasmodic, antimicrobial, circulatory stimulant, febrifuge, antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, diuretic
Systems
Digestion
- protects the gut from irritation and inflammation
- reduces diarrhea
- active against infections
- stimulates appetite
- relieves flatulence
- aids digestion
- enhances elimination
- clears toxins
Circulation
- stimulates circulation, improving peripheral blood flow
- reduces inflammation and muscle tension
- reduces migraines and headaches
- used for arteriosclerosis, chilblains and varicose veins
Respiratory system
- dispels infection
- helpful in asthma
- used for fevers, catarrh, sore throats, colds, flu and chest infections
Mental and emotional
- improves concentration and memory
- calms anxiety
- lifts depression
- relieves exhaustion and insomnia
Immune system
- enhance immunity
- detoxifies poisons
- relieves arthritis and gout
Urinary system
- enhances elimination of wastes
Reproductive system
- reduces heavy menstrual bleeding
- relieves dysmenorrhea (menstrual pain)
Externally
- massage the skin for joint pain, headaches and poor concentration
Caution
- avoid in pregnancy
Food Uses
Parts Used
Flowers, Leaves
Main Uses
Seasoning, Tea
Nutrition
- rich source of minerals like potassium, calcium, iron, manganese, copper, and magnesium
- very good amounts of vitamin A
- exceptionally rich in vitamin B
- fresh leaves are good source of vitamin C
Cooking
- enhances the flavor of any savory or sweet food
- the leaves flavor is quite strong, use it only sparingly
- use it to season lamb, rabbit, veal, pork, sausages, poultry, egg dishes, fish, pickles and shellfish
- flavor oil by adding a few sprigs
- add to jellies, fruit jams, and cookies
- use for add extra special flavor to dishes that need asparagus, cauliflower, broccoli, eggplants, green beans and peas, zucchini and potatoes
- use in breads and biscuits
- soak dried Rosmarinus officinalis in hot water before adding it to uncooked foods
- the flowers can be candied, preserved, or added to jellies, honey, wine or vinegar
Harvesting
- harvest the rosemary needle leaves throughout the summer
- in autumn, pick the leaves in the morning for best oil-content and quality
- use the fresh leaves in dishes immediately after picking them, or dry the leaves