Do you look forward every year to the aromatic goodness of rosemary topiaries? The aroma is delightful and seemingly as medicinal as the leaves themselves. Just smelling rosemary can settle a disturbed tummy and calm a disturbed mind! But, I have better news. Rosemary is just as good for body as it is for the olfactory senses and the taste buds!
Rosemary contains substances that are useful for stimulating the immune system, increasing circulation, and improving digestion. Rosemary also contains anti-inflammatory compounds that may make it useful for reducing the severity of asthma attacks. Rosemary is high in cancer-fighting vitamin A and it has been shown to increase the blood flow to the head and brain, improving concentration. Rosemary is even useful in topical solutions for calming eczema and other skin irritations.
When possible, buy rosemary fresh rather than dried. It can be found packaged in the produce section of most grocery stores with other herbs such as thyme and basil. If you frequently use rosemary, keeping a potted kitchen topiary provides the double blessing aroma as well as quick access for cooking. If not potted, store rosemary in the refrigerator vegetable compartment sealed in its original container.
Rosemary has versatile culinary uses. Linked below are my favorite holiday cranberry recipe which utilizes rosemary as well as some healthfully addictive almond flour crackers. Be sure to try these soon as well as the suggestions below.
* Add fresh rosemary to omelets and frittatas.
* Rosemary is a wonderful herb for seasoning chicken and lamb dishes.
* Add rosemary to tomato sauces and soups.
* Even better than butter—purée fresh rosemary leaves with olive oil and use as a dipping sauce for bread.
Here’s to happy noses, happy hearts, and happy taste buds!
