Rosemary Herb - Uses and Health Benefits

Rosemary is a fragrant herb commonly used in cooking and traditional medicine. It is known for its aromatic properties and potential health benefits, such as improved digestion and cognitive function.
Category
Herb
Where to get
Easily found in grocery stores, spice shops, and home gardens.
Prepared by Nick Harper, reviewed by Dr. David James Simpson

rosemary FAQ


Image credit: treehugger.com

What is Rosemary used for?

Aside from its usage in the fragrance industry, Rosemary is not only used as a decorative plant in gardens, but also cultivated for practical applications, such as medicine and cooking. When the plant is fully grown, the leaves, twigs, and flowering apices are often extracted for use in these areas.

Is Rosemary a perennial?

Although it resembles pine in both appearance and scent, rosemary is actually a member of the botanical family Lamiaceae along with sage and mint. Rosemary is a perennial evergreen that is often grown as an ornamental shrub because of its ability to withstand harsh conditions.

What is Rosemary essential oil?

Rosemary is slightly stimulating. In traditional medicine it was a popular aromatic constituent of tonics and liniments. Today its fragrant oil is an ingredient in numerous toiletry products and in vermouth. The essential oil content is from 0.3 to 2 percent, and it is obtained by distillation; its principal component is borneol.

Is Rosemary a plant?

Rosemary has also long been used medicinally. Rosemary is native to the Mediterranean [Photo: Daniela Pelazza/ Shutterstock.com] Rosemary belongs to the Lamiaceae family and grows to a height of 0.5 – 2 m. The aromatic, evergreen, woody and branching shrub has narrow, elongated leaves that look like pine needles.

Where does Rosemary come from?

Rosemary is derived from the Latin name, Rosmarinus, meaning “dew of the sea”. Historically, the popular herb was used not only as a spice, but also as an incense in cultural ceremonies. Rosemary has also long been used medicinally. Rosemary is native to the Mediterranean [Photo: Daniela Pelazza/ Shutterstock.com]

What does Rosemary taste like?

Rosemary, small evergreen plant of the mint family (Lamiaceae), the leaves of which are used to flavor foods. The leaves have a pungent, slightly bitter taste and, dried or fresh, are generally used to season a variety of foods. Learn more about the physical description and uses of the rosemary plant.

What is Rosemary good for?

Sign up for our daily newsletter to get gardening tips and advice. Rosemary is an attractive perennial shrub with fragrant leaves. It’s also a popular culinary herb with a wonderful aroma and piney taste, which goes well with meat, soups, and potatoes.

rosemary References

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