Herbs101: Rosemary

Rosemary has been known for its remembrance properties, as used since the Middle Ages. During the Middle Age ear, sprigs of rosemary would be placed under pillows to help improve the sleeper's memory. For weddings, rosemary was woven into wreaths to be worn by the bride and decorated rosemary branches were common wedding gifts as well.

Rosemary in Latin is Rosmarinus officinalis, Rosamarinus meaning "dew of the sea".

Rosemary was used for its warding ability against evil spirits and nightmares.

It is believed that rosemary attracts the faeries and good energies.

Rosemary is considered sacred to the Egyptians, the Greeks, Hebe, Aphrodite, and the Virgin Mary.

Rosemary grows during the season of Spring, thriving in the zones of 7 to 10.

When planting rosemary, make sure to plant the seeds two to three inches apart from each other. Rosemary is a perennial and can start growing inside before trans-planting outdoors.

For planting rosemary, start by filling the bottom of a pot with a few inches of soil, sprinkle in some of the seeds then cover the seeds with another inch or two of soil. Keep the soil moist and the seeds should begin to sprout within fourteen to twenty-one days. When the plants have grown to be a few inches tall and the weather is suited for rosemary, take the plant outside during the day and bring it back in during the night.

Growing rosemary only requires good sunlight, proper drainage, and proper air circulation.

When harvesting, snip sprigs as needed and when the weather is not suited for growth any longer, rosemary can easily be dried and stored away.

Rosemary is a good pair planted next to cabbage, beans, sage, and carrots. This herb helps to keep moths, bean beetles, and carrot flies away.

• Can be infused into an oil and used for skin irritations such as eczema and joint problems such as arthritis.
• When applied externally, rosemary can help improve the healing of wounds
• An infusion of nettle leaf and rosemary is a great hair rinse that can rid of dandruff and speed hair growth.
• Natural air freshener
• Helping in ridding of pests such as mosquitos
• Rosemary oil can help sooth stomach pain from indigestion and cramps when applies externally.
• Stimulates the immune system
• Contains anti-inflammatory properties
• Used in spells for fidelity, remembrance, and to rid of jealousy.
• Can be used in ritual baths/ water for cleansing, blessing, and purification.
• Burn rosemary and juniper to aid in healing, drive out negative energy in an ill room
• Hang sprigs of rosemary in the closet to protect the clothing from moths
• Dried rosemary used in cooking should be added early on.
• While studying or doing research, keep a sprig of rosemary in the book or near you o improve your memory and the ability to remember the material needed.

• Do not ingest rosemary oil
• Rosemary contains a chemical similar to aspirin, be aware for anyone allergic to aspirin
• May increase the risk of bleeding and/or bruising in people with bleeding disorders.
• Might make seizure disorders worse.