Medical Uses of Rosemary

Description

• Rosemary is a woody perennial herb that has long, needle-like leaves and, from May to July, pale blue flowers. It is hardy in zones 9 and 10, but must be moved indoors during the winter in other zones.

History

• In ancient times, rosemary was known as the herb of remembrance and was worn as a crown to improve one's memory. Even Shakespeare mentioned it in Hamlet: "There's rosemary, that's for remembrance."

Traditional Medicine

• For many years rosemary has been used as an astringent and disinfectant. Rosemary extract has also been included in cosmetics and has been rumored to alleviate baldness.

Medical Uses Today

• Because of its antimicrobial properties, rosemary, in ointment form, helps with rheumatism, eczema and wounds. Rosemary tea is said to help with digestive disorders, work as an expectorant and repel fleas and ticks. Rosemary is also helpful with high blood pressure and headaches. Researchers have recently been looking into its antioxidant properties, as well as its effects on cancer cells.

Warning

• Large quantities of ingested rosemary may cause stomach irritation and even kidney damage. It also has abortive effects, so pregnant women should avoid it in large quantities.