ROSEMARY
was believed to stimulate the brain and help the memory and so it came to be associated with remembrance. The old custom of leaving rosemary at the graveside and for handing a bunch of it to those bereaved is carried on to this day.
Rosemary stood for fidelity and was included in bridal bouquets.
 Rosemary grows will in light, well-drained, sandy soil in a sunny, sheltered spot. Propogation is by seed, cuttings, or layering; the best plants are those grown from seed, although it is a slow process as the seed takes about 3 weeks to germinate.
The leaves and flowering tips are the parts of the shrub used in the home. The leaves for drying are taken from the stems before the flowers appear. The flowering tips are cut when the flowers are fully open. They are dried and stored in the usual way.
 Rosemary is an effective remedy for digestive upsets and flatulence when taken with food. It stimulates the circulation and rosemary tea can be taken for a nervous headache while a compress of rosemary is applied to the forehead and temples.
To make Rosemary Tea
Pour 1/2 a cupful of boiling water onto 1 teaspoon of dried herb, leaves or flowers tips. Leave to infuse for 5-10 minutes, then strain and add honey to sweeten. Drink it warm and make fresh each time. Do not take over long periods.

Rosemary tea allowed to cool, makes an effective mouthwash for those suffering with bad breath.

Rosemary Cheese Wreaths
1 cup plain flour
2 tablespoons self-raising flour
1/2 teaspoon hot paprika
125g butter, chopped
1 teaspoon carraway seeds
1/2 cup (60g) grated cheddar cheese
1/4 cup (20g)grated parmesan
1 tablespoon water
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves
Sift flours and paprika into medium bowl, rub in butter. Stir in seeds, cheeses and water to form a soft dough. Knead dough on floured surface until smooth. Divide mixture into 12 equal portions, roll into 60cm logs. Cut logs into 12cm lengths. Twist 2 lengths together, press ends together.
Place about 2cm apart on greased oven trays; decorate with fresh rosemary leaves (tucked into joins). Refrigerate 30 minutes. Bake in moderate over about 20 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool on tray. Makes about 30.


 Rosemary is an excellent herb for the hair, stimulating the circulation of the scalp and thus helping get rid of dandruff and to improve the growth and condition of the hair. Rosemary lotion can be applied to the scalp four times a week.
To make the Lotion
Pour one cupful of boiling water onto 1 1/2 tablespoons of dried or fresh rosemary. Leave the infusion to stand for 20 minutes. Strain into a stoppered jar and store in a cool place. use within a few days. Dip cotton wool into the Lotion and rub into the scalp.This is a good Lotion for all hair types.


A decoction of rosemary is good for fading freckles and reducing wrinkles.To make a Skin Tonic
Add 2 handfuls of the herb to 2 cups of water in an enamel pan. Bring to the boil and boil for 2 minutes. Leave to infuse for 20 minutes, then strain into a stoppered bottle. Keep in a cool place and dab on skin morning and night.

A rosemary footbath is a refreshing remedy for tired, swollen, sweaty feet and, used 2 or 3 times a week, will help reduce excessive perspiration.
To make a footbath:
Make sufficient rosemary decoction to cover the feet when placed in a bowl. Allow it to cool to lukewarm then strain into the bowl. Soak the feet for 10 minutes and dry well afterwards. Make a fresh decoction for each application.


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