Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Botanical Classification
- Scientific Name: Rosmarinus officinalis (now classified as Salvia rosmarinus)
- Family: Lamiaceae (Mint family)
- Common Names: Rosemary, Compass Weed, Elf Leaf, Dew of the Sea
Parts Used
- Leaves & Stems: Used in culinary, medicinal, and aromatic preparations.
- Flowers: Less commonly used, but valuable in infusions and essential oil production.
- Essential Oil: Extracted from the leaves and flowers, highly concentrated and used in aromatherapy, topical applications, and herbal medicine.
Equine Use
- Circulatory Health: Stimulates blood flow, helping horses with poor circulation or laminitis.
- Muscle Relaxation: Used in poultices or washes for sore muscles and joints after exercise.
- Digestive Health: May be included in herbal blends for appetite stimulation and gut health.
- Hoof & Skin Health: Infused oils or rinses can be used for fungal infections or skin irritations.
- Calming Effects: While stimulating in large amounts, small amounts can help maintain focus in competition horses.
Usage:
- As a herbal wash for wounds or skin conditions.
- In poultices for muscle pain and inflammation.
- Added to feed in small amounts for digestive and circulatory support.
Canine Use
- Cognitive Support: Used to promote mental clarity and alertness, particularly in senior dogs.
- Flea & Tick Repellent: Infused sprays or rinses help repel parasites naturally.
- Digestive Aid: Can be included in small amounts in food to aid digestion and reduce gas.
- Anti-inflammatory & Pain Relief: Used in massage oils or liniments for arthritis or joint pain.
- Oral Health: Rosemary extract is sometimes included in natural toothpaste for dogs to combat bad breath and bacteria.
Usage:
- Herbal wash or spray for skin conditions or flea prevention.
- Infused in coconut oil for joint massage or wound healing.
- Small amounts in food for digestion and circulatory benefits.
⚠ Precautions:
- Essential oil should never be given internally to dogs.
- High doses can be too stimulating for dogs with epilepsy or seizure disorders.
UK & Isle of Man Folklore & Traditional Uses
- Symbol of Remembrance: Rosemary has long been associated with memory and was traditionally worn at funerals and war memorials. The phrase "Rosemary for remembrance" originates from this tradition.
- Warding Off Evil: In both English and Manx folklore, rosemary was believed to protect homes from evil spirits and was often planted near doorways.
- Love & Fidelity: Rosemary was included in wedding bouquets and given as a token of love and loyalty.
- Household Protection: Sprigs of rosemary were burned or hung in homes to cleanse negative energy and ward off illness.
- Divination & Luck: In Manx folklore, rosemary was sometimes used in divination practices to reveal one’s future spouse.
Calming
Coat and Skin
Digestion
Hooves
Inflamation
Respiratory
Wellbeing
Rosebay Willowherb (Chamaenerion angustifolium / Epilobium angustifolium)
Sage (Salvia officinalis)