Rosemary
spice
Salvia rosmarinus, synonym Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, is a shrub with fragrant, evergreen, needle-like leaves and purple or sometimes white, pink, or blue flowers. It is a member of the mint family, Lamiaceae. The species is native to the Mediterranean region. It has numerous cultivars, and its leaves are commonly used as a flavoring.
Conditions addressed
How to use
- Add to meals during cooking, brew as tea, or mix into warm water with honey.
- Use ¼–1 tsp per serving.
Pregnancy, Breastfeeding & Children
Pregnancy
Use CautionCulinary seasoning amounts are fine, but medicinal doses (concentrated extracts, essential oil taken internally) are traditionally avoided in pregnancy due to a reputation for stimulating menstrual flow and uterine contractions.
Breastfeeding
Likely SafeNormal culinary use is considered compatible with breastfeeding; avoid concentrated medicinal doses.
Children
Likely SafeCulinary amounts are fine for children; essential oil should always be diluted and never given internally to young children.
Interactions & contraindications
May thin the blood
Watch for: Anticoagulants (warfarin), antiplatelets (aspirin, clopidogrel), and other blood-thinning herbs or supplements (ginkgo, garlic, fish oil, vitamin E)
Combining blood-thinning substances can increase bleeding risk, including before surgery or dental work.