Rosemary (Roosmaryn)

Rosemary (Roosmaryn) #

Rosmarinus officinalis

Placehoder

Quick Info #

  • Distribution & habitat: originating in Mediterranean area and southern Europe
  • Cultivation: any soil (but preferring light, sandy, well-drained soil) and full sun. Requires little water and flourishes with minimal care. As the name origin also suggests, this herb does well at the coast.
  • Family: Laminaceae (previously known as Labiatae)
  • Name origin: Rosmarinus means “dew of the sea”
  • Propagation: thumb-length cuttings rooted in moist soil; sometimes also (but not ideally) seeds
  • Plant: perennial

Description #

Rosemary generally grows up to 1 metre high and is said to be one of the oldest herbs. In ancient times, it was known as the herb of remembrance and used at funerals and weddings. The smell of rosemary is fresh and pungent, similar that of resinous pine.

Commonly, rosemary will have dense-growing, leathery, narrow, resinous leaves; dark-green on top and silver-grey underneath. The single flowers may vary between various colours. The seeds are oily, small and tan. The stems are squarish, turning woody from the second year.

Available at Kruiekraal are:

  • Ginger Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalus).
  • Rosemary McConnell’s Blue (Rosmarinus officinalus ‘McConnells Blue’).

Uses & Ecology #

Warning: the essential oil should not be used internally.

Rosemary is particularly well-known for its aromatic properties. The dried leaves are used in potpourri, and the herb was carried in small packets during the Great Plague, which were sniffed with the belief that this would keep the plague away.

Rosemary is an antiseptic with anti-inflammatory actions. It’s used internally to treat depression, digestive disorders, fatigue, migraine, poor circulation and tension headaches. It is also used to treat blood pressure problems, heart ailments, and physical and mental stress. Rosemary is used externally to relieve symptoms of rheumatism and muscular aches and pains.

The blue flowers are used as garnish. The sprigs go well with roast pork and skewers. Using the twigs on the braai can add a nice flavour to the meat and help keep insects away. Twigs are also used to make decorative wreaths. Rosemary is said to invigorate and stimulate when used in bath water or to make tea.

Rosemary repels cabbage worm and carrot fly, making for some good companion planting uses. Placing fresh boughs in a room is said to cool the air. The oil acts as an insect repellent.

Traditional use has included a rosemary infusion for shampoo (to stimulate hair growth) and as a rinse to lighten blonde hair.

Caution: Do not medically use or ingest any plant parts before consulting a qualified health practitioner. Any mentioned traditional uses are based on cultural practices and anecdotal evidence. They are not necessarily clinically proven or supported by modern scientific studies.

References #

  • Bremness, L. (1998) The Complete Book of Herbs: A practical guide to growing & using herbs. South Africa: Southern Book Publishers (Pty) Ltd.
  • Craze, R. & Webb, M.A (2004) The Herb & Spice Companion. New York: Barnes & Noble Inc.
  • Hey, B. (1992) A Celebration of Herbs for the South African Garden & Home. Cape Town: Struik Publishers (Pty) Ltd.
  • Roberts, M. (1993) Alles oor Kruie. Cape Town: Struik Publishers.
  • Roberts, M. (2012) My 100 Favourite Herbs. Cape Town: Struik Nature.