I just don't run my mouth about this stuff here on the blog. I do it at work too. I got into this conversation with a co-worker about herbs. I was lamenting the fact that I don't have space for a proper garden. She said that Rosemary was about to take over her garden. So the next day, what do I find on my windshield but a sprig of Rosemary. You can't really appreciate the pretty blue buds on it in this picture. Take a closer look.

My co-worker was nice enough to give me a sprig of Rosemary from her garden. I wish there was a Wordpress plugin so you could smell it. Rosemary has a heavenly smell. This is my first time seeing it au naturelle. By the time I get to it, it's a dried herb or tincture. Of course it's now my job to extoll the virtues of Rosemary.

Like any good herb, Rosemary has a dual nature. As an herb there are medicinal benefits. When Rosemary's essential oil is extracted, its benefits are intensified. Rosemary is also good in a stew or a tea. It's versatile that way. Rosemary is thought to have a rejuvenating effect on the skin, increase confidence and aid mental creativity. Aromatherapists believe that it enhances concentration and alertness and helps to view situations with greater clarity. It has been traditionally considered effective in coping with stress. It is also believed to provide comfort and strength.

Rosemary tends to do well in warm states that get a good amount of rain. Many people in the South find it does so well that it's used as an ornamental bush. Until recent times, rosemary was a very popular Christmas plant, along with holly and mistletoe. Tincture of Rosemary will relieve aching joint and rheumatic pains when applied. It's very common to find Rosemary in hair care products such as shampoo. Most importantly, Rosemary opens the heart to love.