Rosemary Tea: The Health Benefits for the Mind and the Body

What is rosemary tea and how can it be beneficial for your health?

Rosemary tea is an infusion made from the leaves of the rosemary plant, popularly used in traditional medicine for its health benefits. It is often associated with weight loss and improved sleep, as well as being a natural ally for mental health and well-being.

In this article, we’ll cover the origins and uses of rosemary as a medicinal plant, and teach you how to prepare a delicious tea with it. Curious? Let’s go!

The history and origins of rosemary

Rosemary is an aromatic herb native to the Mediterranean area. Its scientific name, Rosmarinus officinalis, comes from the Latin for “dew of the sea”, which may have originated from the appearance of this plant in its habitat: oceans of blue flowers by the beaches. It is now grown in dozens of countries and is part of the Lamiaceae family, the same as oregano, lavender, thyme and basil.

The stems are harvested during the summer and left to dry in the sun. Its leaves have been used in cooking and traditional medicine for centuries, as it is highly rich in vitamins and minerals and an excellent flavour enhancer. It is common to use rosemary infusion in baths and essential oils. It is also associated with weight loss due to its action in reducing fluid retention. In addition to tea and spices, it is also often used in aromatherapy.

In ancient Greek times, rosemary sprigs were used to improve brain function. According to the Greeks, it helped them to activate the mind and improve concentration and memory. Rosemary sprigs were also used in wreaths at celebrations, as they symbolised fidelity and immortality. 

In the Middle Ages, it was used to purify sick rooms. The Romans considered it a plant symbolic of love and longevity, planting it near the doors of houses.

In traditional belief, rosemary sprigs are believed to purify the air and ward off the evil eye (envy).

The health benefits of rosemary

Rosemary tea is, besides being delicious and aromatic, a drink full of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, much appreciated due to the various health benefits it has – it helps to strengthen the immune system, improves digestion and helps memory.

It is also a natural calmer, having certain compounds that increase serotonin levels, improving mood and emotional well-being. Making it a great natural antidepressant to reduce stress and relieve anxiety. This makes it a great sleep and memory aid, preventing the ageing of cells, regenerating them and supporting the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases. 

On a digestive level, it stimulates the production of digestive enzymes and helps in the process of absorbing nutrients from food. Its anti-inflammatory properties can relieve stomach discomfort. In addition, rosemary tea has diuretic properties, which can help eliminate toxins from the body and promote kidney health.

How to make rosemary tea at home: 3 easy recipes

To integrate rosemary tea into your diet, you can prepare a simple infusion with the leaves of the plant. Up to three cups a day are ideal for best results.

Simple rosemary tea recipe:

• 1 tablespoon of rosemary leaves
• 500ml boiled water
• sweetener to taste

Preparation:

1. Boil 500ml of water in a saucepan;
2. Add 1 tablespoon of rosemary leaves to the boiling water;
3. Cover and leave to infuse for 5 to 7 minutes;
4. Strain and allow to cool before drinking;

Rosemary, ginger and honey tea recipe:

• 1 tablespoon rosemary leaves
• 500ml boiled water
• crushed ginger to taste
• 1 tablespoon honey

Preparation:

1. Boil 500ml of water in a saucepan;
2. Add 1 tablespoon of rosemary leaves and the ginger to the boiling water; 
3. Leave to heat for 2 minutes;
4. Turn off the heat, cover and leave to stand for 5 minutes;
5. Strain, add the honey and drink warm;

Rosemary, lemon and honey tea recipe:

• 1 tablespoon rosemary leaves
• 500ml boiled water
• 1/3 lemon
• 1 tablespoon honey

Preparation:

1. Heat the water, without boiling;
2. Add the rosemary leaves and leave for 5 minutes;
3. Strain and transfer to a cup;
4. Add the honey and lemon;
5. Drink at a temperature to taste.

Rosemary tea has no theine, can be drunk throughout the day and can be combined in various types of infusions and dishes. It can be drunk a few hours before going to bed.  Use rosemary in your daily life, combined with a healthy and balanced diet, and enjoy all the benefits it has to offer for your health.

Buy our recipes

• Rosemary Leaves 
• Organic Ginger Root
• Lemon Peel
• Sweeteners
• Mesh Infuser

Chás do Mundo

Somantis, Unip. Lda is a company founded in 2005 that operates in the food industry, with special focus on the import and export of teas, medicinal plants, accessories, spices and various organic products. Our company is represented by the brand “Chás do Mundo ®” which presents a wide range of high quality teas, with more than 2000 varieties available, including orthodox teas or blends of various types such as green tea, white tea, black tea, red tea, oolong tea, rooibos, medicinal plants, tisanes, fruit mixtures, teas in simple, organic and fair trade sachets.

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