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Rosemary is a fragrant, evergreen herb. According to the Herb Society of America, it is native to the Mediterranean and is a surprisingly hearty herb. It has a long history as an aphrodisiac as well as a medicinal plant. The list of rosemary benefits is long and somewhat surprising.

The benefits of rosemary for your memory

“There’s rosemary, that’s for remembrance”– Ophelia from Shakespeare’s Hamlet

You may remember that famous line. It made me question, “Is rosemary good for memory?”

For centuries, rosemary was tied with improving memory. But nobody really knew if it was true. Until 2015, that is. According to BBC News, a group at Northumbia University conducted a study in 2015 with the intention of proving that the herb really does improve memory. In this controlled study, a group introduced to an aromatic infusion of rosemary performed significantly better on memory-related task than the control group.

Of course, I have alluded to the fact that rosemary’s benefits are aphrodisiac. The benefit to memory won’t directly impact your libido. But it does make you more irresistible as a lover. Who doesn’t want a partner who always remembers your favorite things?

Rosemary benefits for skin and body

Rosemary is known as an herb to help digestion. In fact, because of a high manganese content, rosemary may increase metabolic rate.

The herb is also noted for its powers to increase circulation. One of the benefits of rosemary oil when added to the bath is that it will improve circulation to the skin and sensitivity to touch.

Folkloric legend associated the herb with the Virgin Mary, for whom many originally thought the herb was named. But it was actually named for Aphrodite/Venus. And in many early depictions, the goddess of love was portrayed clutching or wearing a sprig of the fragrant herb.

Placed under your pillow, rosemary is thought to promote pleasant dreams. And steeped in hot water, rosemary tea can calm nerves. I’ve also read that in ancient Rome, the scent of rosemary was considered empowering.

TO TRY: Rosemary can even be used in cocktails. Get the recipe for an East Indian Gimlet.

Cooking with rosemary

Rosemary has not lost its power in the present day. Added to any savory dish, its intense flavor and comforting aromas are unforgettable. And perhaps, used at the right time and for the right person, rosemary may find you love.

Discover more of the world’s greatest aphrodisiac foods