by
Stepy —
September 26, 2018
- Rosemary is an aromatic herb that has been widely used in Mediterranean cuisine.
- Legend has it said that rosemary was draped around Greek goddess Aphrodite when she rose from the sea. The Virgin Mary spread her blue cloak over a white-blossomed rosemary bush when she was resting, and the flowers turned blue. Rosemary became known as the ‘Rose of Mary’.
- Let’s take a look at some of the health benefits of rosemary:
- It contain phenolic anti-oxidant rosmarinic acid and volatile essential oils such as cineol, camphene, borneol, bornyl acetate to name a few. These compounds are known to have anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal and antiseptic properties.
- Anti-aging:
- Because of its anti-inflammatory benefits, rosemary is a popular choice in anti-aging creams. It also contain a high amount of vitamin A.
- A 3-tbsp. serving of fresh rosemarycontains 150 IU of vitamin A, which makes it a great ingredient for skin creams.
- Antibacterial:
- Rosemary has antimicrobial properties.
- Tip: Use a few drops of essential oil in 2 cups of boiling water and breathe as steam bath to treat bacterial and upper respiratory infections.
- The plant fights staph infections and e.coli. The herb can fight the fungus responsible for yeast infections.
A University of Illinois study also showed that rosemary has antibacterial properties that may be effective against H. pylori, which is the bacteria responsible for stomach ulcers.
- Anti-inflammatory:
- Rosemary contains carnosic acid and carnosol, which are two potent anti-inflammatory agents.
- Tip: Make a rosemary tea with 2 tsp of dried or fresh rosemary in 2 cups of hot water. Let steep for a few minutes and strain.
- Add 1 tbsp of raw honey drink 2 to 3 times a day.
- Cancer fighter:
- According to a University of Illinois study, spices featured in the Mediterranean diet such as rosemary may help prevent lung, prostate, breast, skin, leukemia, and colon cancers due to carnosol content. Rosemary contain caffeic acid and rosemarinic acid which are potent antioxidants. Also rich in carnosol, Rosemary has been found to detoxify substances that can initiate the breast-cancer process.
- Tip: Use a few twigs of fresh rosemary in your favorite dishes and drinks.
- Digestive health:
- Rosemary is commonly used as a natural remedy for indigestion, upset stomach, and other digestive issues.
- Tip: Make a tea with the leaves as per the directions above.
- Immune booster:
- Rosemary has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that contribute to a healthy immune system.
- Tip: Drink as tea and include in your favorite hot soup or beverage.
- Liver detox:
- Rosemary has been used for centuries to treat liver problems. Hippocrates, the great Greek physician prescribed it for this purpose.
- Memory protection:
- Rosemary essential oil may enhance the ability to remember. Researchers from Northumbria University in the United Kingdom found that the amount of 1,8-cineole, a main chemical in rosemary oil, in the blood is linked with brain performance. The study published in the journal Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology.
- For a DIY deluxe nourishing rosemary body scrub.
- For a DIY antiseptic rosemary mouthwash.
- Note: None of the information in our website is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any illness or disease. The content on our website is for educational purposes only.
- REFERENCES:
- 1. Ehrlich, Steven D., NMD. “Rosemary.” University of Maryland Medical Center. N.p., 03 Apr. 2011. Web. 13 June 2013.
- 2. Johnson, JJ. “Carnosol: A Promising Anti-cancer and Anti-inflammatory Agent.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine, 01 June 2011. Web. 13 June 2013.
- 3. “In Vitro Susceptibility of Helicobacter Pylori to Botanical Extracts Used Traditionally for the Treatment of Gastrointestinal Disorders.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine, Nov. 2005.
-
