Rosemary
Rosemary is a woody, evergreen shrub with needle-like leaves and a bold, resinous scent. Native to the sunny Mediterranean coast, it has been at home in British gardens and kitchens for centuries.
At a glance
- Botanical name: Salvia rosmarinus (formerly Rosmarinus officinalis)
- Plant family: Mint family (Lamiaceae)
- Part we use: Leaf
- Native to: The Mediterranean
- Character: Bright, piney and aromatic
History and tradition
The name comes from the Latin ros marinus, meaning "dew of the sea", because it often grows near the coast.
Rosemary has long been linked with remembrance. In Shakespeare's Hamlet, Ophelia says: "There's rosemary, that's for remembrance." It was traditionally carried at weddings and funerals, and sprigs are still worn on Anzac Day in Australia and New Zealand.
In 2017, botanists reclassified rosemary into the sage genus, so its official name is now Salvia rosmarinus.
Where you will find Rosemary in our tinctures
- In HAPPY, Rosemary brings a bright, aromatic character and its old association with remembrance and a clear mind, alongside Rose petals, Lemon Balm, Lavender and Gotu Kola.
- It also features in the Restore mini tincture inside the Reset Box.
Did you know?
In medieval Europe, rosemary was burned in sickrooms and placed under pillows, and brides wore it in their wedding wreaths.
Good to know
Rosemary is widely used as a culinary herb. In concentrated forms, it is not recommended during pregnancy, or if you have epilepsy or take blood-thinning medication, without first speaking to your GP.
As with any herbal supplement, please speak to your GP or pharmacist before use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition.
Meet more herbs
If you enjoyed learning about Rosemary, you may also like Sage Leaf, Lemon Balm and Gotu Kola. Or browse every plant in our blends on Meet the Herbs.
Blooming Blends tinctures are food supplements and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. Food supplements should not replace a varied, balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.
