Rosemary, Rosemarinus officinalis, has been used for its flavor and medicinal properties for hundreds (if not thousands) of years. Whether you are well-versed in herbs or have only seen them in the spice rack at the grocery store, you are most likely familiar with rosemary.

But did you know the wide variety of benefits it can provide through a simple cup of tea?

It has been known to:

  • help support digestion – calm digestive distress and indigestion and treat spasmodic digestive complaints
  • promote cognitive function, potentially preventing diseases such as Alzheimer’s
  • support hair growth and scalp health, and prevent alopecia and dandruff
  • be a high source of iron, calcium, copper, magnesium, and vitamins A, B6, C, and E
  • reduce inflammation and swelling
  • prevent age-related skin damage
  • boost liver function
  • regulate the menstrual cycle and ease cramps
  • lower blood sugar and help raise low blood pressure
  • treat migraines
  • soothe aching muscles and joints
  • act as an antioxidant, protecting the body from heart disease and various cancers.

One of the easiest ways to incorporate many herbs into your health and wellness routine is to steep them into a tea.

Rosemary tea is a light, piney, refreshing, and slightly astringent drink.

There are several methods to brew a cup of this delicious tea:

Rosemary Leaves

Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1 tablespoon rosemary leaf. Cover and steep for 7-12 minutes. Strain the herbs and drink hot or iced (adding honey if desired).

Rosemary Flowers

Steep two teaspoons of the dried flowering tops in one cup of water for 20 minutes; strain and enjoy.

Rosemary tea is a warming and stimulating drink with pain relieving properties; it stimulates the digestive system, improve circulation, eases headaches and rheumatism, aids in focus and concentration, relieves respiratory concerns, and can even be used as a mouthwash to combat oral bacteria when cooled.

Always consult a health care professional before consuming. Rosemary is generally safe in culinary or therapeutic doses, but in large doses can cause adverse reactions. If pregnant, breastfeeding, or epileptic, avoid consuming large or medicinal doses of rosemary.