Rosemary is uplifting and energizing. The versatile herb is used as a digestive remedy, circulatory stimulant, and anti-depressant. Rosemary is used in the treatment of exhaustion, weakness, jet lag, chills, rheumatism, arthritis, breast pain, cysts, scalp problems, headaches, colds, flu, and Alzheimer’s.

The plant is astringent, antiseptic, and diuretic. Rosemary is considered an excellent tonic and all round stimulant with properties that promote sweating and increase bile flow. Rosemary is used in tonics, tinctures, teas, compresses, and poultices.

The essential oil of rosemary is often used in massage. It makes a stimulating and soothing rub for arthritic conditions and aching muscles. Combine with grape seed or almond oil and leave on overnight for best results. Rosemary essential oil is also used in aromatherapy to treat headache, exhaustion, hormonal problems, and depression.

Rosemary is known to be good for the hair and scalp. Use as a rinse to condition hair and fight dandruff. Rinsing with a rosemary infusion (strong tea) on a regular basis is thought to encourage growth and may even restore color in some cases. Combine with a few drops of lavender essential oil for best results.

Rosemary poultices and compresses are often applied to achy joints and sore muscles to relieve pain and speed healing. For best results, alternate hot and cold applications.

Rosemary is the symbol of remembrance. The scent helps improve brain function and stimulates memory. Rosemary can be used to help recall facts on demand. Scheduled to take a written test? Take a sprig of rosemary and sniff every few minutes for a better grade! Of course, homework and study is still required for an A.

Rosemary is best known as a culinary herb. It is good with chicken, potatoes, and in stews. Add a pinch, wait a few minutes for flavors to blend, and then add more if needed. You do not want to add too much rosemary as it will overpower all other ingredients.

Rosemary is packed with antioxidants. Rosemary is also known to contain compounds that prevent the breakdown of brain chemicals responsible for cognition and reasoning. Add rosemary to the diet and improved brain function is guaranteed.

In ancient times, rosemary was often scattered on the floors to discourage spiders and other household pests. Today, rosemary is still used as an insect repellant. Sprigs are pressed inside books to discourage silver fish and placed in linen closets to repel moths.

Rosemary is an evergreen perennial that prefers full sun and sandy soil. It will grow from two to six feet in ideal conditions. Rosemary does not like frost although the plant can survive winters in North Georgia if planted on the south side of a building and mulched. Rosemary may also be grown in containers and brought indoors for the winter months.

* Avoid large doses of rosemary in cases of epilepsy or hypertension. Large doses of rosemary may cause excessive menstrual bleeding. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedy especially if pregnant, nursing, or taking other medicines.