Rosemary: history, the memory symbol, scent and safety precautions
Rosemary is a Mediterranean shrub, now classed among the sages. Its history, its symbolism of remembrance, its resinous scent and the safety points to know.
Key points
| Botanical name | Salvia rosmarinus (formerly Rosmarinus officinalis, until 2017) |
|---|---|
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Origin | Mediterranean basin, Portugal and north-west Spain |
| Part used | Sprigs and leaves, fresh or dried |
| Scent | Resinous, camphor-like, fresh, slightly woody |
| Traditional symbolism | Remembrance, fidelity, memory (according to European traditions) |
| Main precaution | Camphor-rich essential oil: not for children, pregnancy or epilepsy |
What is rosemary?
Rosemary is an evergreen shrub in the Lamiaceae family, with narrow, leathery leaves that are green on top and whitish underneath, and small pale blue flowers, sometimes from winter. It grows wild in the garrigue and on dry rocky ground around the Mediterranean. Its leaves concentrate the aromatic oils that give it its very recognisable smell.
A note on terminology: Linnaeus named it Rosmarinus officinalis in 1753. In 2017, genetic analyses led botanists to place it in the genus Salvia, and its current scientific name is Salvia rosmarinus. You will therefore see both names in books and on labels; it is the same plant. The common name comes from the Latin ros marinus, “sea dew,” probably because it grows near the coast.
Symbolism of remembrance
Rosemary was regarded as sacred by the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans, according to the sources usually cited. In Europe it became the symbol of remembrance: in Hamlet, Ophelia says, “There’s rosemary, that’s for remembrance.” Sprigs are still worn at commemorations, such as ANZAC Day in Australia, and were placed in wedding, christening and funeral ceremonies. In popular tradition, it was also associated with memory and fidelity.
These are old and poetic symbols. We do not say that rosemary improves memory or offers protection: we describe what tradition has attributed to it. As for fumigation, historians note that rosemary and juniper were burned in sickrooms during the Middle Ages and later. It was a gesture of its time, when microbes were not understood, not a proven method.
Scent and decorative uses
Rosemary smells fresh, resinous, camphor-like and slightly of warm wood. Fresh or dried, it keeps well and is easy to grow. At home, it is used in:
- dried bunches and wreaths, which keep their shape;
- sachets for linen, often mixed with lavender;
- sprigs for fumigation: the stems, rich in resin, burn with an aromatic smoke and a slight crackle. In small sprigs, they are a good alternative to the “sage smudge stick” of today’s fashion;
- cooking, of course, with meats, potatoes or breads.
For fumigation, cut sprigs of 10 to 15 cm, dried for at least two weeks (see Drying and storing your herbs), and place them on a heat-resistant dish. Never leave the ember unattended.
Health and safety precautions
Rosemary used as a culinary herb or as decoration poses no particular problem for most people. The essential oil is more delicate: it contains camphor (about 10 to 20% according to the analyses cited) and other aromatic compounds. Health guidance advises against it for young children, pregnant or breastfeeding women and people with epilepsy. If you are unsure, ask a pharmacist or doctor, and never apply undiluted essential oil to the skin (see Essential oils: caution).
Rosemary smoke is not harmless either: like any combustion smoke, it contains fine particles. Use it occasionally, in a ventilated room, and not when young children, asthmatic people or sensitive animals are present.
Growing and harvesting
Rosemary loves full sun and dry, well-drained soil. It tolerates waterlogged roots and very hard frosts poorly; in a cold climate, it is better grown in a pot and sheltered in winter. Cut the soft stems regularly, never more than a third of the plant at a time, so that it stays dense. A single plant can supply sprigs all year round: it is one of the best choices for local fumigation without pressure on wild nature. Do not pick wild rosemary in protected areas or along roads (pollution).
How to pair it
| Paired with | What you get |
|---|---|
| Lavender | Floral and fresh, for a clean-linen scent |
| Thyme | Aromatic and warm, very Mediterranean |
| Juniper | Woody and resinous, in the spirit of old fumigations |
| Common sage | More herbaceous, with a camphor edge |
Frequently asked questions
Rosemary and Rosmarinus officinalis: is it the same plant?
Yes. Since 2017, botanists have placed it in the genus Salvia as Salvia rosmarinus, but the name Rosmarinus officinalis is still widely used.
Can you burn rosemary?
Yes, in small dried sprigs, in a heat-resistant dish, in a ventilated room. Avoid it in the presence of children, animals or asthmatic people.
Is rosemary dangerous for cats and dogs?
The plant in small amounts is generally tolerated, but essential oil should be kept away from animals. If in doubt, call your vet.
Is rosemary advised against during pregnancy?
Concentrated uses (essential oil, strong infusions) are advised against. Ask your doctor or midwife.
Why does rosemary symbolise remembrance?
European tradition has associated it with commemorations and ceremonies, but no single origin has been established. Shakespeare made it famous through Ophelia.
Also read
The meanings mentioned belong to tradition and symbolism. They are neither promises of results nor medical advice. Back to Herbs, waxes and accessories.