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Rosemary at a Glance
Rosemary is now botanically classified as Salvia rosmarinus; the older name Rosmarinus officinalis remains common on labels. It is an aromatic evergreen in the Lamiaceae family.
Culinary Use
Rosemary leaves are widely used to flavor roasted vegetables, breads, meats and oils. Culinary use is much milder than essential-oil exposure.
Traditional Use
Rosemary has a long European reputation for digestion, circulation, remembrance and mental clarity. It is also one of the classic herbs of household and ceremonial tradition.
Research
Small studies have examined rosemary aroma or extracts in relation to attention, memory and mood. Evidence is interesting but not strong enough to claim treatment of cognitive disorders.
Essential Oil and Safety
Rosemary essential oil is highly concentrated and should not be casually ingested. Undiluted topical use can irritate skin. People with seizure disorders should be cautious with concentrated camphor-rich or cineole-rich oils. Food amounts are generally safe in pregnancy, while medicinal or essential-oil dosing deserves more caution.
Folklore
Rosemary is famously associated with remembrance, fidelity, protection and purification.
Bottom Line
Rosemary is a major culinary herb with deep symbolic history and modest cognition-related research. Keep food, extract and essential-oil use clearly separated. For educational purposes only.