Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

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)