What is Rosemary? Spiritual, Mental & Physical Benefits

Plant history

Usage of rosemary dates back to 500 B.C. when it was used as a culinary and medicinal herb by the ancient Greeks and Romans. In ancient times rosemary was believed to strengthen the memory; in literature and folklore, it is an emblem of remembrance and fidelity.

Rosemary is native to the dry, rocky areas of the Mediterranean, especially along the coast. The genus name Rosmarinus derives from the Latin words ros and marinus, which translates to “dew of the sea.” 

Plant Identification

• Origin: The Mediterranean
• Growth: A mature rosemary shrub takes several years to reach its mature height, which ranges from 2 feet to 6 feet, although blooming typically occurs in year 2
• Plant family: Lamiaceae 
• Scent: Woodsy fragrance
• Colour: Dark green and shiny above, with a white underside
• Harvesting: Rosemary grows most actively during the spring and summer, so this is the best time to harvest, as the sprigs you cut off will grow back more rapidly. Trim some of the plants off daily or weekly to encourage their growth.
• Endangered: Not endangered

Benefits 

Spiritual

Rosemary symbolises love and blesses weddings with fidelity, honesty and transparency, longevity, and earth wisdom. Rosemary is used to warding off evil and can be placed under pillows to block nightmares and dark energies. This potent herb has strong protective properties that have made it a common smudging herb to purify sacred spaces and the home. Rosemary promotes raising your vibration; it has an uplifting energy and promotes emotional balance. Use Rosemary to promote good luck and abundance.  

• Rosemary is connected to the element of Fire.

Medicinal

Rosemary has many beautiful attributes for medicinal purposes. Rosemary is a rich source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which are thought to help boost the immune system and improve blood circulation. Rosemary is considered a cognitive stimulant and can help improve memory performance and quality. It is also known to boost alertness, intelligence, and focus.