Benefits of Rosemary-Rosmarinus Officinalis

Rosemary is traditionally known as the "herb of rememberence" and for good reason. It contains compounds that relax the digestive tract and can increase the effects of essential enzymes in the brain, helping to improve memory and concentration. It has also been shown to reduce stress, mild depression, and help with nervous exhaustion, all factors that can affect your memory.

Rosemary is an evergreen shrub that's easy to grow. It prefers a sunny spot in poor soil, and sprigs can be harvested all year round. It can also be bought fresh and dried in supermarkets, and is available as an essential oil.

Rosemary tea or infusion

This can be taken as tea or as an infusion added to the bath, so the smell can lift your mood.

You will need:

About 30g fresh rosemary (or 15g dried)

500ml boiling water

·         Wash and chop the rosemary if using fresh, place in a glass bowl

·         Poor over the boiling water, cover, and leave to stand for 8 - 10 minutes

·         Strain through a sieve (lined with muslin if you have some)

·         Drink as a tea the same day (it can be reheated if desired)

Rosemary infusion can also be gargled to freshen breath! Use it several times a day and store in the fridge. Rosemary is also a delicious aromatic herb to add to meat dishes, and grown in the garden it can help ward off mosquitoes.

Rosemary Wine

This is a very enjoyable way to take rosemary to improve your memory and it can help the symptoms of mild dementia, although it will not cure it!

You will need:

1 bottle of good quality wine (Southern French or Californian wine is best for the high alcohol content and warmth of the sun)

5 sprigs of fresh rosemary

·         Bruise the rosemary and place in the bottle of wine

·         Re-cork and shake every day for 2 weeks

·         Once ready, drink one small wine glass a day after dinner.