Rosemary Herb

Rosmarinus officinalis common name: rosemary herb


Rosemary herb is and evergreen shrub whose essential oils are distilled from the leaves and used in herbal medicine.

It is also used in food preparation as a preservative, especially for meats. It is one of the ingredients in the liquor, Benedictine.Medicinally, it can be taken both internally or externally. More recent literature shows it is being studied as a cancer therapy.

Rosemary Herb Benefits

In European folk medicine, rosemary has been used for nervous disorders, upset stomach, headaches, baldness, arthritis and strains. Benefits for specific conditions include the following:

• Alzheimer's disease. Improves circulation to the brain and prevents breakdown of neurotransmitters responsible for maintaining memory.
• Cancer. Has strong antioxidant effects and can prevent cancer causing agents from binding to DNA, causing mutations. The abilites go beyond just one type of tissue.
• Ezcema. Rosemary baths can increase circulation to skin, and prevent bacterial infections of ezcema.
• Indigestion and menstrual cramps. Acts as an anti-spasmotic to reduce muscle cramps
• Irritable bowel syndrome(IBS). Relieves cramps and spasms. Stimulates the release of bile into the GI tract which aids in better digestion.

Considerations In Use

Rosemary is available as enteric coated oil capsules, oils for aromatherapy (do NOT ingest this form!), and teas. The teas can also be used as skin washes.

Do not ingest the pure essential oils. It will irritate the stomach and intestines and can cause kidney damage.

Pregnant women should not take this due to the effects on the uterus. Daily use should be avoided in women with a history of heavy menstrual periods.

Small amounts used in cooking generally do not have side effects as the oils are broken down by the heat of cooking the herb.

For more information visit my herb dictionary online.

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