Rosemary - Herb Uses |
WARNING - Excess use of this herb causes abortion and convulsions.
Culinary (eaten)
Leaves and flowers are used fresh or dried to flavour a variety of dishes. Also used in vinegar, wines and olive oils.
Infusion (like a tea)
Pour near-boiling water over the herb and let steep 5-10 minutes. Standard quantities are 75g fresh or 30g dried herb to 500ml water. The Infusion must be taken same day. It may be sweetened, but do not add milk. This is the best method for leaves and flowering tops.
Used for treating Anxiety, Colic, Depression, Poor Digestion, Headaches, and Migraines
Decoction (like a broth)
Simmer the leaves and flowering tops for 15-30 minutes and strain. Standard quantities are 75g fresh or 30g dried herb to 500ml water. The Decoction must be used on the same day.
Used for treating Anxiety, Colic, Depression, Poor Digestion, Headaches, and Migraines
Tincture
Using a strong clear alcohol (gin or vodka is ideal), steep the leaves and flowering tops for 2 weeks or more, strain and use. Standard quantities are 75g fresh or 30g dried herb to 400ml alcohol. Tinctures store very well.
Used for treating Anxiety, Colic, Depression, Poor Digestion, Headaches, and Migraines
Oil
Medicated Oils are oils infused with the leaves and flowering tops. Used for healing, oils are also used for skin and hair conditioning. Four methods are available to make Medicated Oils. 1) heat 250g dried or 750g fresh herb in 500ml of oil in a bowl over boiling water for 2-3 hours. 2) fill a jar with fresh herbs, top it up with oil, cover and leave for 2-3 weeks. Renew the herb for another 2-3 weeks to increase the concentration (best for flowers). 3) add 25-50 drops of the "essential oils of the herb" into 100ml of Oil for immediate use. 4) essential oils are obtained by evaporation of the herb in a stoppered glass container left in the sun for several days.
Used Externally for treating Arthritis and Rheumatism, Neuralgia, Muscular Injuries, and wounds
Wash
The herb can be used as a Wash by diluting an unsweetened Infusion or Decoction, or adding a Tincture to a large quantity of water. Use Wash by applying externally to the affected area.
Used for treating Dandruff, and Hair Loss
Insect Repellent
The oil from the leaves and flowering tops can be used as a insect repellent by diluting the oil in water or using a decoction as a spray.
Used as a flea deterrent
Rosemary - Plant Information |
