Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is an evergreen shrub, growing up to a height of 31-50 inches, with leathery needle-like silver green leaves and tubular pale blue flower. Originating in the Mediterranean, this herb is also found in Europe, North Africa and Middle East. As the flower is often grown near the sea, the name Rosemary is derived from the Latin word ros marinus, meaning, “rose of the sea”.

Rosemary has a long history of culinary and medicinal use. In early times, Rosemary was freely cultivated in kitchen gardens and came to represent the dominant influence of the house mistress 'Where Rosemary flourished, the woman ruled.'

The 16th-century British herbalist Gerard provides an indication of how Rosemary was regarded in early medicine: “Rosmarie is given against all fluxes of bloud; it is also good, especially the floures thereof, for all infirmities of the head and braine, proceeding of a cold and moist caufe; for they drain the brain, quicken the senses and memorie . . ”

Gerard's reference to Rosemary being used to quicken the memory comes from an ancient belief that Rosemary can sharpen the memory and inspire fond remembrance. This tradition of regarding Rosemary as the herb of remembrance has been carried on by brides carrying sprigs of the plant in their wedding bouquets.

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