Herb of the Quarter: Rosemary

(Rosemarinus Officinalis)

• Do not take in high doses if pregnant, or avoid completely
• Two sayings associated with Rosemary are ‘rosemary for remembrance’ and ‘where rosemary flourishes the woman rules’ (apparently).
• Can be grown anywhere but the best is grown near the sea
• Flowering: Mid to late spring and late summer, but can be picked and dried for use in other seasons.

Magical Uses

• Gender: Masculine
• Planet: Sun
• Element: Fire
• Uses: Healing, Love, Lust, Memory, Protection, Purification, Sleep
• Used to wash hands and burned to purify a room before a ritual
• Used in  baths or placed beneath a pillow along with lavender it ensures a good night’s sleep
• Hang above a door to protect against thieves
• Carry it to remain healthy
• If carried on sea journeys then it will protect you from storms
• Powder the leaves and wrap it in linen and tied to the right arm will dispel depression and make the emotions light and merry.
• Used in love & lust incenses

Medicinal Uses

• 1tsp of the dried herb mixed with a cup of hot water is good for headaches caused by gastric disturbances, and stimulates production of bile in the liver
• Rosemary oil used on arthritic joints acts like a pain killer
• Prescribed for migraines, and to use apply to the temples
• The oil is an antiflatulent, when a few drops are placed on a sugar cube and eaten
• An antiseptic
• Can be used externally by applying to bites, stings and aching muscles.

Other Uses

• Stimulates the mind and memory in the form of a tea and can be used before exams
• The dried plant mixed with borax and water can be applied cold as a hairwash against dandruff
• Used as a stimulant when taken as a tea when the body is tired due to feeling cold.