During WWII, a mixture of Rosemary leaves and Juniper berries was burned in the hospitals of France to kill germs. The botanical name for Rosemary is from the Lain ros (dew) and marinus (of the sea), because the plant grew in abundance near the seashore.
In Ancient Greece, Rosemary was believed to strengthen the memory. Due to this memory enhancement belief, it became popular for students of the time to wear sprigs of Rosemary in their hair while they studied. Thus, to the Greeks, Rosemary became a symbol of remembrance.
Rosemary leaf is effectively used in Europe and in distant China to treat headaches, stomach pains, as an analgesic, smooth muscle stimulant, and s anti-malarial.
In the Middle Ages, in Europe, Rosemary was used to clear vision, to sharpen the senses, to help weak memory and to alleviate nervous ailments. Rosemary tea is a long-standing folk remedy for nervous headaches. Rosemary stimulates capillary circulation brining more blood to the cells, making Rosemary helpful in healing colds, sore throat and sluggish liver. It can also be used as a mouthwash to freshen the mouth. When mixed with Myrrh, it is good for bleeding gums. Rosemary is used to calm and soothe irritated nerves, upset stomachs and clams strenuous anxiety.
It has been found to be effective for digestive problems, is specific in headache and tension relief formulas, counteracts depression, and is a specific nervine that eases neuralgia, neuritis, tendinitis, and muscle pain.
Rosemary is used in hair rinses to darken and retain original hair color and in shampoos or oils to control premature balding or as part of a sleep pillow to alleviate insomnia and restless sleep.
Rosemary is an anti-oxidant herb and a strong brain and memory stimulant. Rosemary has been found to be effective as a circulatory conditioning agent and nervine in stress, tension and depression. It has also been used for many years as a heart strengthener that helps reduce high blood pressure.
Rosemary helps regulate menses. Rosemary is a blood cleanser and an antiseptic. Making it useful for treating uterine pain and excessive bleeding.