By: Ozren Podnar, Zdenka Jurković |
Rosemary - a spice, remedy and a symbol of fidelity |
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Rosemary is a shrubbery plant that originates from the Mediterranean region, but is now cultivated throughout Europe and America.
Named after the Latin words ros (dew) and marinus (sea), meaning "sea dew", since its growth benefits from sea breeze that carry moisture.
Throughout the history, the rosemary was very popular, it holds a special place among plants because of the symbolism which is tied to it.
It is valued as a spice and natural medicine for over a thousand years, and even Greek gods loved it.
In the ancient world it was dedicated to Aphrodite, goddess of beauty and love.
Ancients were well acquainted with this plant, which was reputed to improve memory, so the Greek students put it on their heads when they were learning for exams.
It was used for weddings, but also for funerals, to decorate the roofs of churches and halls for celebrations, as incense in religious ceremonies and against evil spells and curses.
In old England, Rosemary was a symbol of fidelity, from which originated the custom of wearing rosemary on clothes during the wedding.
Rosemary oil
For centuries, people have been using rosemary flowers and buds. But, the leaves are most widely used. They are picked in the summer months and are dried.
Rosemary oil is produced by distillation of leaves or twigs, and its quality depends on the climate and location.
It is believed that this oil boosts energy and stimulates and suppresses excessive sweating.
It is an excellent remedy for stomach and nerves and helps in treating headaches.
It is used in hair lotions not only because of the pleasant aroma, but also for stimulating the hair roots and preventing premature hair loss.
Massage a few drops of oil to massage into the scalp for stimulating hair growth and then rinse your hair.
A mixture of dried leaves and flowers of rosemary and borax is one of the best mixtures washing hair and preventing dandruff.
Rosemary helps with rheumatism, and it is applied by massaging the affected parts of the body, after which they must be wrapped with cotton cloth.
If you suffer from stomach and bowel diseases, we recommend you to take 3 drops of oil on sugar cubes or teaspoons water.
Rosemary essential oil is used in aromatherapy for enhancing concentration, memory and stress relief.
Rosemary oil bath has a relaxing effect on the whole organism. Fill the bathtub with warm water and add 5-10 drops of rosemary oil.
Rosemary can be used for:
- improving memory and concentration
- depression
- headaches
- natural antibiotic
- muscle pains
- gout and rheumatism
- indigestion and colic
- kidney stimulation
- hair loss and dandruff
- natural aphrodisiac
Rosemary wine
Wine is made by picking green rosemary buds that are then soaked in white wine. After several days the mixture is filtrated and ready for use.
Rosemary wine stimulates the brain and nervous system, improves circulation and kidney function, and is a good medicine for headache.
Rosemary tea
Young tops, leaves and flowers can be prepared as a tea, which is a good remedy for headaches, stomach cramps, colds and nerve disease.
If you suffer from depression, inhalation of vapors of rosemary tea will help with treatment.
Rosemary tea has a beneficial effect on muscle relaxation, indigestion and menstrual cramps.
Hungarian water
Hungarian water is mostly used for local applications and is used to restore the vitality of paralyzed limbs.
It is named after the Hungarian Queen Elizabeth of Hungary, who was completely cured by using it.
It is made by mixing fully blossomed rosemary tops and alcohol. The mixture is then left for four days and then filtrated.
Hungarian water has proved very useful in the treatment of gout in the hands and feet, and is applied by strongly massaging it into the skin.
Rosemary in cuisine
Rosemary is often used in Mediterranean cuisine. In small quantities, it is an excellent flavoring for soups, roast meat and soft cheeses.
A bunch of rosemary, which is later removed, is put into the dish so it can take over rosemary aroma. You can use rosemary for flavoring oils or vinegar.
Together with thyme, oregano, marjoram and savory it makes the famous Mediterranean blend of herbs - Provencal herbs, which are used for preparing stews and tomato dishes.
Rosemary enhances the flavor of tomatoes, pumpkins, potatoes, eggplants, peas and lentils. Baked potatoes spiced with rosemary can be served as a main course or as an excellent side dish.
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