The plant of fire and circulation—used as both a culinary herb and a medicinal herb since ancient times. Since 2020, its botanical name has been Salvia rosmarinus.
Interesting facts about rosemary
- Officially Salvia rosmarinus since 2020 (classified in the Lamiaceae family).
- One of the four herbs in "Scarborough Fair" (16th century, Simon & Garfunkel).
- A bridal wreath made of rosemary—a symbol of fidelity and fertility.
Effects & Properties
Camphor: tones the blood vessels, stimulates the heart, and raises blood pressure. Cineol: improves blood circulation in the mucous membranes and muscles. Rosmarinic acid: antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.
Features: promotes blood circulation, stimulates circulation, warming, raises blood pressure, aids digestion, aphrodisiac.
Applications
Rosemary for poor circulation
Hypotension (low blood pressure) results in insufficient blood circulation, leading to dizziness, fatigue, and cold extremities. The camphor in rosemary is THE remedy for hypotension: it strengthens vascular tone and stimulates the heart to beat more strongly. Blood pressure rises to a normal level, circulation improves, and the symptoms disappear.
Rosemary for muscle and joint pain
Muscles and joints can only regenerate with adequate blood flow. When applied topically, rosemary intensively stimulates microcirculation: more oxygen and nutrients reach the tissues, and metabolic waste products are eliminated more quickly. Tension is relieved, synovial fluid production improves, and pain subsides.
Rosemary for menstrual cramps
In cases of light menstrual flow (hypomenorrhea), rosemary stimulates blood flow to the uterus during the second half of the cycle and helps restore menstrual flow to normal levels. When taken during the first half of the cycle, rosemary can promote ovulation by improving blood flow to the ovaries. Therefore, it should not be taken internally during pregnancy.
Rosemary for Digestive Problems
Rosemary's ability to stimulate blood circulation also benefits the digestive tract: it improves blood flow to the gastrointestinal tract, activates the digestive glands, and normalizes bowel motility. Rosemary has a particularly invigorating effect on sluggish digestion caused by poor blood circulation.
Rosemary for Rheumatism
Rheumatic pain and stiffness are caused by poor blood circulation in the affected joints and connective tissue. When applied topically, rosemary relieves stiffness through its intense warming effect and by promoting microcirculation. Pain subsides and mobility improves.
Rosemary for Frigidity
Frigidity often has a physiological component—poor blood circulation in the pelvic area. Rosemary warms the lower abdomen thanks to its circulation-boosting properties: whether used in a full bath, as tea, or as a spice, it improves blood flow and sensitivity.
Instructions for Use
Tea, capsules (for internal use). Oil, foot bath, rub (for external use). Do not use in an aroma lamp after 4 p.m. – its stimulating effect can interfere with sleep.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Not on the inside – Risk of miscarriage due to increased blood flow to the uterus. Safe for external use. Breastfeeding: safe in normal amounts when used as a spice or in tea.
High blood pressure
Contraindicated – Rosemary further raises blood pressure.
Plant Profile
- Scientific name: Rosmarinus officinalis (Salvia rosmarinus)
- Plant family: Lamiaceae
- Other names: Wedding Dress, Meertau
- Flowering period: March through April
- Origin: Mediterranean region
- Toxicity: Non-toxic
