How to Make a Rosemary Tincture
*This information is based on my own research and reading–I always encourage you to do your own research too. Consult your doctor if you are considering changing, or going off, any medication (read my full disclaimer/disclosure here.)*
Rosemary is a hearty, aromatic herb that's very easy to grow, and can withstand the winter. It was one the first plants that I bought when I moved out on my own, and it was even able to withstand my late-teen neglect.
For the past couple of summers, I've been harvesting and drying it to use for cooking during the winter months--roasted potatoes and rosemary, yum! However, a friend asked me last week if rosemary had any medicinal properties, as she had a bunch growing in her back yard and wanted to find a use for a it. I researched the plant and was very surprised and impressed with what I found. Rosemary is a popular and versatile, medicinal plant, and is often used in tinctures and other home remedies!If you're into natural remedies, rosemary is a herb that you'll definitely want to incorporate into your medicine cabinet!
Medicinal Properties of Rosemary
For centuries rosemary has been used for it's medicinal properties. Even the ancient Egyptians considered it excellent for the brain and dispelling melancholy, and would place rosemary on tombs as a symbol of remembrance.Medicinally, rosemary is also used:
As a tonic for the nervous system; increasing circulation to the brain, heightening concentration and improving memory.- To treat depression.
- To relieve anxiety and strengthen nerves (making it ideal for pre-exam students, or interviewees.)
- To relieve migraines and headaches (feverfew too!)
- For it's antimicrobial properties, and taken to boost immune system function to help relieve cold, flu, sore throats and chest infections.
- To stimulate digestion.
- To stimulate liver and gallbladder function, this aiding in detoxification.
- Externally, and turned into an oil rub to help soothe discomfort caused by arthritis and rheumatism. (I think I'll make an oil-infused, rosemary salve for my Nana's arthritis.)
How to Make a Rosemary Tincture
If you haven’t yet, you may find it helpful to read week one’s post, Tinctures 101.
- Harvest both the leaves and flowers of the rosemary plant.
- Place them in a jar, and cover with 80-proof alcohol, like vodka, gun or rum.
- Let the jar sit for 6 weeks, out of sunlight. Give it a shake every couple of days.
- Strain the mixture and transfer to a tincture bottle, or proceed to make a double-strength infusion.
- Take one adult dose, two droppers full, for any of the ailments listed above, 1-3 times per day.
*Tincture bottles are for sale locally (2 for $5), at Flo’s Body Piercing Studio (my mom), in Sechelt, B.C