Rosemary Tea

What is rosemary tea?

A popular herbal decoction, rosemary tea is prepared from the leaves of rosemary, a fragrant herb found in the Mediterranean region. Being a good source of minerals, antioxidants, and vitamins, it has a host of health-promoting properties.

History and origin

According to ancient Greeks, it was used to improve memory. It was a practice to burn the herb in hospital rooms for purifying the air. During the Elizabethan period, several hair problems such as dandruff and baldness were resolved using the herbal infusion.

Rosemary tea health benefits

Positive effects on the brain

Its regular consumption may help in improving memory and concentration by increasing the blood flow to the brain. It has also been shown as a promising remedy for Alzheimer’s disease.

Drinking a cup of fresh rosemary tea can relieve the symptoms of a migraine, often triggered by stress and tension, by improving blood circulation in the brain.

Beneficial for the respiratory system

The volatile oils and other antiseptic compounds in the herbal decoction might be effective in reducing sore throat as well as cough. Having it on a regular basis may also help in clearing congestion in the respiratory system as a result of infections and allergies.

Rich in antioxidants

It is useful for boosting the immune system due to its high antioxidant content. As shown in some studies, its antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties come from the presence of caffeic acid and rosemarinic acid, respectively, that may prevent cancer. The presence of carnosol, a natural anticarcinogen, and antioxidant, might make it effective in curtailing the risk of breast cancer.

Calms the digestive system

Regular consumption of the herbal infusion can provide relief from a host of digestive disorders, including irritable bowel syndrome.

Reduces pain

Those suffering from rheumatic pain may find this herbal decoction beneficial.

Other uses

• Washing the skin affected with eczema or scabies with the herbal decoction 2 to 3 times a day might improve blood flow to the skin, providing positive results.
• It can be used to rinse the mouth for preventing the growth of oral bacteria.
• Using cold rosemary tea for washing hair can minimize dandruff, itchiness, and dry scalp.

How to make rosemary tea

• Add 1 ½ teaspoons of fresh or dried rosemary leaves to a cup of boiling water
• Steep it for about 5 minutes
• Filter the mixture
• You can add sugar or honey to enhance its taste

You can also prepare rosemary iced tea by refrigerating the herbal drink for a while and adding some ice cubes to it.

Safety and precautions

Side effects

Although having the tea is generally safe, in some people it may lead to skin allergies. If you have high blood pressure, diabetes, gastrointestinal troubles, or are on medication for a heart disorder, then avoid its consumption.

During pregnancy

It should not be consumed by pregnant women and nursing mothers since there is no information to support its safety during this time.

Where to buy

There are several herbal tea shops and online stores selling rosemary tea leaves and tea bags.