Rosemary; Salvia rosmarinus
rosemary is a very powerful little plant and I recommend it as a witch's essential herb, a non-negotiable if you will, as it has so many uses.
Other names: sea dew, compass plant, polar plant
Nutritional and Medicinal Fun Facts:
Good for metabolic health
High in carnosic acid which has anti-cancer properties
Improves memory and concentration
Aeromatic may help reduce asthma symptoms
Aeromatic and eating it can help reduce stress and anxiety
May help increase circulation
High in antioxidants, manganese pantothenic acid, niacin, thiamin, folate, and riboflavin
extra fun fact: part of the mint family; eucalyptol (camphor-like) and alpha-pinene (pine-like) are the compounds that primarily give the rosemary flavor
~Magical Properties & Lore~
Beauty spells, especially in an aromatic
Health spells and rituals; I also use it in spells to break unhealthy habits
Antifertility spells (along with safe sex! mundane first, always)
Protection and banishing spells regarding negative spirits; especially visitations at night
Sachets, tea, or aromatic for spells to improve intelligence and memory; excellent herb for student
Helps with nightmares and remembering dreams
Use as a tea or aromatic for dream work and past life remembrance
Burn to cleanse home or self of negative energy
Grow it inside to purify the air
Tip: pairs powerfully with Juniper in most situations
Christians believe it grows for 33 years until it is the same height as Jesus. They believe it got blue flowers when Mary placed her cloak on it when fleeing to Egypt. It is a Christian symbol of fidelity and remembrance.
Couples should plant on their wedding day and interpret the growth as divination for the family.
Couples have also wore it at their wedding and given as favors to their guests.
Said to protect against the evil eye.
In Wales, it was used as a funeral favor and sprigs were lowered with the casket.
Embalming herb in ancient Egypt
Ancient Greece & Hellenism
Symbol of love, beauty, and eternity
Said to help people retain youth when smelled
Increases memory; students would wear garlands of rosemary for exams
recipes to eat it in: so good on chicken, fish, and potatoes, rosemary-infused olive oil, rosemary and lemon pasta
dededos
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