Herbal Remedies ~ Rosemary

Also known as- Rosmarinus officinalis. Romero, Dew of the Sea, and Romero

Rosemary is an aromatic evergreen mint that grows to a height of about three feet (one meter). It bears narrow, thick, needle-like green leaves and pale blue to violet flowers. The leaves and the essential oil distilled form the leaves are used in herbal medicine.

A potent antiseptic, antioxidant, and antispasmodic useful in treating circulatory conditions, eczema, rheumatism, stiff muscles, Alzheimer's, cancer, indigestion, and irritable bowel syndrome.

Active constituents include:1,8-cineole, acetic acid, camphor, carnosol, carvacrol, carvone, caryophyllene, chlorogenic acid, geraniol, hesperidin, limonene, luteolin, rosmarinic acid, salicylates.

Antioxidant, antiseptic, and antispasmodic, rosemary is a key herb in European herbal medicine.

For centuries, rosemary has been used to treat arthritis, baldness, headaches, stomach upset, pains, strains, cuts, scrapes, and bruises.

Contemporary scientific research suggests that rosemary may be useful for:

~ Alzheimer's. Phytochemicals in rosemary may prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine, a chemical that allows neurons within the brain to communicate with each other.

~ Cancer. Several laboratory studies suggest that rosemary contains compounds that prevent carcinogenic chemicals from bind to and inducing mutations in DNA.

~ Circulatory problems. The camphor content finely chopped rosemary or essential oil of rosemary to bath water helps stimulate blood circulation the skin.

~ Eczema. Increased circulation in the skin after application of rosemary may carry away inflammatory chemicals.

~ Indigestion. Rosemary prevents abdominal cramps.

~ Irritable bowel syndrome. Rosemary relieves intestinal cramps and spasms by stimulating the release of bile that helps digest fat. It also relieves bloating and gas.

~ Menstrual cramps. Antioxidant compounds in rosemary prevent uterine spasms.

~ Yeast infection. Rosemary is not only fungicidal but also diuretic. It stops growth of yeast and helps remove yeast cells from the lining of the urinary tract.

Rosemary leaves can be made into infusions for topical use. Essential oils and enteric-coated capsules are also available.

CAUTIONS: Essential oil of rosemary should never be ingested.

Women who have heavy periods should avoid excessive use of rosemary, since it stimulate menstrual flow. The herb should not be used medicinally during pregnancy. Small amounts of rosemary used in cooking, however, are safe for pregnant women and for women who have heavy periods.

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