Now it is time to look at some of the historical and current uses for rosemary. It has a special significance to early Christians. They called it 'the rose of Mary." According to the church, the Virgin Mary was sheltered by a rosemary plant during her flight from Egypt. Supposedly, when she spread her cloak over the herb, its white blossoms became blue. There is another legend that relates to the church. People said that the plant would not grow to be taller than Christ, who was said to be 6 feet tall, and wasn't supposed to live longer than him, which would be 33 years. Supposedly, this herb was present in the manger at the time of Christ's birth.
For most people, rosemary can safely be consumed. However, experts recommend that pregnant women should not take the plant internally.
In the kitchen, rosemary has many uses. The foliage has an intense, resinous flavor that is just delicious. It was particularly popular during medieval times as a culinary herb.
At the present time, this is used in all sorts of dishes, including soups, chicken stews, fish, meat, eggs, seafood, vegetables, stuffing, and bread. Even the flowers can be used for culinary purposes, and are often added to salads. This is also used in jams, jellies, biscuits, cordials, vinegars, and wines. Unlike many other herbs, rosemary maintains its flavor when it is dried.
Typically, the sprigs can be added to a soup or dish during the cooking process, and removed before serving.
Its use is by no means limited to flavor. Studies have found that it acts as a great preservative in food, performing as well as the artificial chemicals we now use.
Grilling is more popular than ever. Don't forget to keep some rosemary near your grill. Keep lots of rosemary around, and use the twigs as shish kebabs. This transfers the delicious flavor of the herb to the food as it cooks.
Other than its great flavor, there are other reasons to use this plant in cooking. It contains antioxidants, which can postpone the effects of aging.
Historically, rosemary has been used to make perfumes. It is one of the ingredients in Hungary water.
Because rosemary is particularly aromatic, it has many other uses for cosmetics and items around the home. It is added to potpourri. It also makes an excellent insect repellent. As a cosmetic, this is especially useful for hair preparations, such as shampoos, and conditioners for dandruff control, and in toothpastes and powders.
