rosemary, (Salvia rosmarinus), small evergreenplant of the mint family (Lamiaceae), the leaves of which are used to flavour foods. Native to the Mediterranean region, rosemary has naturalized throughout much of Europe and is widely grown in gardens in warm climates. The leaves have a pungent, slightly bitter taste and, dried or fresh, are generally used to season foods, particularly lamb, duck, chicken, sausages, seafood, stuffings, stews, soups, potatoes, tomatoes, turnips, and other vegetables, as well as beverages. The taxonomy of rosemary has been contentious, and it was formerly placed in the genusRosmarinus as Rosmarinus officinalis. See alsoSalvia.
Physical description
Rosemary is a perennialshrub and usually grows to about 1 metre (3.3 feet) in height, though some plants can reach up to 2 metres (6.6 feet) tall. The linear leaves are about 1 cm (0.4 inch) long and somewhat resemble small curved pine needles. They are dark green and shiny above, with a white underside and curled leaf margins. The small bluish flowers are borne in axillary clusters and are attractive to bees. Rosemary is fairly resistant to most pests and plant diseases, though it is susceptible to certain fungal infections, such as powdery mildew, in humid climates. It is also a common host to spittlebugs. The plants are easily grown from cuttings.
In ancient times rosemary was believed to strengthen the memory; in literature and folklore it is an emblem of remembrance and fidelity. Rosemary is slightly stimulating. In traditional medicine it was a popular aromatic constituent of tonics and liniments. Today its fragrant oil is an ingredient in numerous toiletry products and in vermouth. The essential oil content is from 0.3 to 2 percent, and it is obtained by distillation; its principal component is borneol.
Plants in the genus Salvia are herbs, shrubs, or subshrubs and are generally perennial and aromatic. The leaves can be simple or compound and are arranged oppositely along the square stems. The flowers are usually tubular with two lips and only two stamens and are borne in terminal inflorescences.
rosmarinus), small evergreen plant of the mint family
mint family
Lamiaceae, the mint family of flowering plants, with 236 genera and more than 7,000 species, the largest family of the order Lamiales. Lamiaceae is distributed nearly worldwide, and many species are cultivated for their fragrant leaves and attractive flowers.
(Lamiaceae), the leaves of which are used to flavour foods. Native to the Mediterranean region, rosemary has naturalized throughout much of Europe and is widely grown in gardens in warm climates.
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 together translate to “dew of the sea.” Rosemary has been used since the time of the early Greeks and Romans.
Rosemary, Rosmarinus officinalis L. (Labiatae) has been used in folk medicine to alleviate several diseases including headache, dysmenorrhea, stomachache, epilepsy, rheumatic pain, spasms, nervous agitation, improvement of memory, hysteria, depression, as well as physical and mental fatigue (5, 6).
Rosemary wood was used in pagan rituals, as an ointment to purify priests' hands, or as an incense. In Medieval times it was used to make talismans against poisoning. According to legend in various regions of the Mediterranean, it was a sacred plant in which fairies would hide or live.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is widely used as a spice when cooking, especially in Mediterranean dishes. It is also used for fragrance in soaps and cosmetics. Traditionally, rosemary has been used medicinally to: Improve memory.
The herb has been hailed since ancient times for its medicinal properties. Traditional uses of rosemary include helping alleviate muscle pain, improving memory, boosting the immune and circulatory system, and promoting hair growth.
The ancient Egyptians considered rosemary to be sacred and valued it for its medicinal virtues. They also put sprigs of rosemary in their tombs as a symbol of immortality and fidelity.
Rosemary is said to have anti-inflammatory properties which can help soothe sore muscles after an intense workout or long day on your feet. The woody aroma of rosemary also gives a deep soothing and relaxing vibe to your showers.
Antiplatelet and anticoagulant drugs (blood-thinners) -- Rosemary may affect the blood's ability to clot, and could interfere with any blood-thinning drugs you are taking, including: Warfarin (Coumadin) Clopidogrel (Plavix)
As previously mentioned, rosemary is a rich source of phenolic phytochemicals having significant anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and blood pressure-lowering activity. Additionally, this herb reduces elevated blood sugar, lowers blood lipids such as cholesterol and triglycerides, and helps to protect the liver.
If you follow the meaning of flowers, rosemary signifies love and remembrance, making it a great holiday gift. Rosmarinus officinalis is a tender perennial plant that is native to the cool and moist Mediterranean region. Rosemary grows well in Central Illinois, but it will not overwinter outside.
Herb of legend and of Christmas, rosemary is the herbal symbol of love, loyalty, and remembrance. Rosemary, Rose of the Sea, Dew-of-the-Sea and Rose of Mary, is not mentioned specifically in the Bible but is a plant of ancient lineage.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is a symbol of fidelity and remembrance once used in the holiest of Christian ceremonies, the wedding and the funeral. For centuries people thought that the rosemary plant would never grow higher than 6 feet in 33 years so as not to stand taller than Christ.
Rosemary finally arrived in the Americas with early European settlers in the beginning of the 17th century. It soon was spread to South America and global distribution.
Introduction: My name is The Hon. Margery Christiansen, I am a bright, adorable, precious, inexpensive, gorgeous, comfortable, happy person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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