Aroma, with its ethereal allure, has captivated humanity ever since the evolution of human beings. It is and was a part of rituals and traditions in many cultures of the world. Not an enticing attraction just human beings, it is equally enchanting in the animal world as well. The world of aroma is highly diverse. Many plant species and animals produce aromatic or fragrant molecules through biological pathways operating inside them. One such plant, a source of highly aromatic essential oil, is rosemary. Shakespeare mentions the use of rosemary for remembrance in Hamlet, that's why it is also known as a ‘herb of remembrance’. There are a wide variety of uses for rosemary essential oil, ranging from aromatherapy to cooking and more. Rosemary, botanically known as Salvia rosmarinus (synonym Rosmarinus officinalis), belongs to the plant family Lamiaceae.
DISTRIBUTION
Rosemary
is native to the Mediterranean region (Albania, Algeria, Baleares, Corse,
Cyprus, East Aegean Island, Egypt, France, Greece, Italy, Libya, Morocco,
Portugal, Sardegna, Sicilia, Spain, Tunisia, Turkey, Yugoslavia). However, it
is cultivated throughout the world for the extraction of essential oils.
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MORPHOLOGY
Rosemary
is a highly aromatic, hardy, and evergreen shrub that can live for up to 35
years. It can grow to a height of up to 1.5
m. The leaves are evergreen, needle-shaped, 2–4 cm × 2–5 mm in size, green above, and whitish
below due to the presence of dense, short, and woolly hair. Generally, flowering
occurs in spring and summer in temperate areas, but the plants can be in
constant bloom in relatively warm climates. My plants, cultivated in pots,
start flowering in October and continue till February in Shimla. The flowers
are purple, white, pink, or even deep blue.
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CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS
The
major chemical constituents in the leaves and flower tops are 1,8-Cineole, α-Pinene,
and borneol, which account for nearly 50% of all the constituents. Other minor constituents
reported from this plant are camphene, limonene, and triterpene alcohols such
as β-sitosterol.
USES
I. CULINARY USES
Rosemary is a versatile herb that finds uses in
many culinary cultures of the world. It is used to give a delightful flavour
and aroma to a wide range of culinary dishes such as soups, baked products, potatoes,
meats, vegetables, marinades, sauces, and drinks.
II. IN PERFUMERY
Rosemary oil is considered a versatile ingredient in
perfumery. It is used in perfumes, soaps, deodorants, talcum powders, incense
sticks, etc.
III. AS AN ORNAMENTAL PLANT
Rosemary plants are grown in the western gardens as decorative
and fragrant elements.
IV. MAGICAL USES
Rosemary leaves are burned to purify the area to get rid of negativity in Western magical traditions. Rosemary ensures good sleep and is supposed to drive away nightmares when placed beneath the pillow. Rosemary is burned on charcoal and the smoke is smelled to get knowledge and answers to a question. Scott Cunningham mentions that before collecting an herb for a specific magical purpose, the role of that plant in fulfilling a specific need should be mentioned before that plant like this:
I gather you, rosemary, herb of the Sun,
to increase my mental powers and concentration.
V. MEDICINAL USES
Rosemary is reported to have immune-boosting properties. It helps in strengthening the body's natural defence mechanism.
3. Anti-Microbial Properties
Rosemary oil has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. It is commonly used for wound healing in traditional Western medicine.
4. Good for Digestive Health
Rosemary leaves have been traditionally used to aid in digestion and soothe the gastrointestinal tract in the Mediterranean region for ages. It stimulates the production of digestive juices, reduces gas and bloating, and alleviates symptoms of indigestion.
5. Anti-inflammatory Properties
The essential oils found in rosemary have anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to reduce inflammation in the body. It can also be used topically to relieve joint pain associated with arthritis and rheumatism.
6. Soothes Nerves
Rosemary oil is believed to soothe the nerves and help in improving memory, concentration, and mental clarity.
7. Good for Respiratory Health
Inhalation of rosemary essential oils helps in alleviating nasal blockage, sinusitis, lung congestion, and coughing and therefore helps in easy breathing.
8. Promotes Hair Growth
Rosemary oil improves blood circulation to the scalp, strengthens hair follicles, and prevents dandruff and hair loss. It is commonly used in hair care products such as hair oils and shampoos.
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