Rosemary Uses
Rosemary isn’t only for cooking. There are many ways to use this delicious Mediterranean herb, from keeping mosquitos away to scenting your bath. Here are some unusual ways to use rosemary and add some spice to your life – not just your dishes.
Essential Oil
Making rosemary-infused oil at home isn’t difficult. Rosemary oil can be used to scent your home, bath, or added to homemade natural cleaners. Here’s an easy-to-follow recipe from Viva:
- You will need a sterilized jar or bottle – rinse jars thoroughly in hot and soapy water, then boil it in a pan for 20 minutes.
- Fill the jar or bottle with as much fresh rosemary as you possibly can.
- Next, pour olive oil over the rosemary, filling it to the rim. As a rule of thumb, use 2 cups of oil to one cup of herbs, although this may vary depending on the vessel used.
- Close the jar or bottle tightly with a lid and place it in a warm spot, like under the sun on the terrace, windowsill, or in a warm cupboard. Leave the oil alone for 2-3 weeks to infuse, or until the rosemary begins to turn brown. Then, remove the cap and smell its fantastic aroma. If the aroma isn’t strong enough for you, strain the liquid into a container, fill the jar back up with fresh rosemary, then pour the strained oil back into the pot. Leave it for another 1-2 weeks. You can repeat this step continuously until the oil is as potent as you desire.
- Once the oil is ready, strain thoroughly and pour it into a fresh bottle. Finally, you can store your aromatic oil in a cool place for up to 6 months.
Natural Deodorant
Many people are choosing to use natural deodorant over harsh chemical underarm protection. If you are one of them, then Delicious Obsessions‘ recipe for a homemade natural rosemary deodorant is ideal for you. This DIY deodorant, made from rosemary oil, lemongrass, and coconut oil, will keep you feeling fresh on those hot and sunny days.
Mouthwash
Rosemary has medicinal benefits. According to Return to Now, its antimicrobial properties could help kill bacteria responsible for gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath. Therefore, you can make a natural mouthwash at home by boiling or soaking four rosemary sprigs and four cloves in two cups of water.
Mosquito Repellent
Rosemary has a scent that keeps mosquitos away. Once you have planted the rosemary and it’s fully grown, you can boil a cup of leaves with a quart of water for 20 to 30 minutes. Next, strain the water into a container, pour it into individual glass spray bottles, and store it in the fridge. You can then apply it directly to your skin to use as an immediate mosquito repellent.
Other plants that repel mosquitoes include basil, bee balm, catnip, citronella, floss flower, lavender, lemon balm, marigold, peppermint, and scented geranium. Meanwhile, some plants that attract mosquitos include bamboo, taro, papyrus, water lilies, water hyacinths, and water lettuce.
All-Purpose Cleaner
Rosemary’s antibacterial and antiseptic properties make it an ideal cleaner. Add a few sprigs of the herb with lemon peels to water and white vinegar, stir, and voila! You have an economical and safe household cleaner.
