Her name – Ros marinus – means “fond of the sea”, not surprising since the plant thrives along the Mediterranean coast
Garlands were worn on the head while studying in ancient Greece to improve memory
Symbol of remembrance, friendship & love: worn at weddings – esp. bridal bouquets – and used at funerals by tossing branches in with the dead
Long held belief that it wards off evil spirits: it was said to not grow in the gardens of evil people – a good personality tester! Rosemary’s leaves were placed under the bed pillow to do away with nasty spirits and ward off bad dreams.
Branches were burned in the 14th & 15th century homes to ward off the Black Death.
The wood of the plant was used to make lutes & burned into charcoal, then crushed into a powder to keep teeth healthy.
In WW II, Rosemary and Juniper were burned in French hospitals to kill germs – a practice we’d be wise to modernize and implement today with all of the MRSA and other community virus & bacteria outbreaks.
Healing Qualities:
Stress reducer
Stimulant of nervous & circulatory systems, also pelvic region.
Heart tonic
High in calcium, Vitamins A & C, iron, zinc, potassium & phosphorous
Excessive dosing can cause death
Uses:
Culinary
Bath
Household: as disinfectant
Teeth & gum care
Hair care
Insect repellant
May Provide relief for:
Headaches
Indigestion
Colds, flu & fever
Insect bites
Respiratory ailments
Dry and damaged hair
Premature balding: acts as preventative
Culinary Uses:
Pungent, distinctive flavor which harmonizes well with poultry, fish, lamb, beef & game – particularly when the meat is roasted.
Great with tomatoes, eggs, cheeses – especially goat cheese!
Combined w/ fresh garlic, it makes a lovely infused olive oil to pair with peasant bread chunks as dippers -perhaps with a touch of balsamic vinegar! Use the infused oil in salad dressings, marinades…let your creativity pour out!
