Teas to Try During Your Next Tea Circle

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This week we'll look at the many uses of the Rosemary bush and drinking Rosemary Tea. 

Origin:

The rosemary bush is native to South America and the Mediterranean region. it's part of the family of plants such as mint, oregano, lemon balm and basil. Here are 6 potential health benefits and uses of rosemary tea as well as possible drug interactions and a recipe to make it at home on your stovetop. 

Interesting Facts: 

There's so much that can be done with rosemary bush. Did you know that rosemary plant is often used as a natural preservative to increase the shelf life of perishable foods?

 Rosemary contains antioxidant, anti-inflammatory compounds. Other benefits can be lowering blood sugar, improving mood and memory, and protecting brain and eye health. 

Because of its antimicrobial properties rosemary tea can help fight infections. Rosemary leaves are employed in traditional medicine for their antibacterial and wound healing effects. Some studies have shown it can help slow growth of leukemia, breast and prostate cancer cells.  It's been shown to improve memory and mood and may protect vision and eye health. Using Rosemary extract can be helpful as a digestive aid because it promotes a healthy balance of bacteria and reducing inflammation in the gut  

Caution:

If you are taking anticoagulants, ACE Inhibitors, diuretics and lithium you may experience side effects. Check with your physician before adding rosemary tea or products to your diet. 

Use:

It can be boiled in water and used as an air freshener. Rosemary water can promote healthy hair; some have even experienced hair growth by using it on a regular basis.

Where to Get Rosemary Tea

Rosemary tea can be purchased in convenient ready-made tea bags, or it can be easily made on your stovetop at home by 

1. Boiling 10 ounces of water, 

2. Adding 1 teaspoon of loose rosemary leaves to the hot water or you can place loose leaves in a tea infuser 

3. Steep leaves for about 10 minutes, depending on how flavorful you like your tea. 

4. Strain the leaves from the hot water using a mesh strainer with small holes *leaves can be discarded 

5. Pour your rosemary tea into teacup or mug and enjoy. 

6. Add sweetener to taste if you like.