Uses of Rosemary Plants

• The rosemary plant is a perennial herb that has been used as a medicine for thousands of years. Rosemary plants are the subject of many myths, legends and fables. According to one story, rosemary will only grow at a house where the mistress is the master. Today, this aromatic plant is commonly used as a flavoring for food -- but it has a wide range of other uses, and rosemary flowers symbolize remembrance and love.

Cooking

• Rosemary plants can be harvested to use as a spice for foods such as soups, stews, chicken and meat. The sprigs of the plant can be dried and saved for later -- or put over coals to add flavor to grilled meats. Rosemary makes flavorful herb butter and a delicious warm tea.

Decorative Uses

• The spiky needles of rosemary plants make an attractive, unusual houseplant. Weave the branches into a wreath or place several branches on a dining room table as a centerpiece. Some varieties of rosemary plants grow to 8 feet tall and make attractive, ornamental garden plants. The rosemary plant is tolerant of cutting, and rebounds quickly when sprigs or branches are removed from the plant.

Personal Care

• Rosemary, along with sage, makes a dye for brown hair. The rejuvenating effect of rosemary makes it a popular addition to cosmetics such as skin toners and face creams. Place a small sprig of rosemary in a drawer to serve as a natural, aromatic sachet. A few sprigs tossed under the running water of a hot bath create a soothing, scented herbal bath.

Medicinal Uses

• Tea made from rosemary plants can settle an upset stomach. The rosemary plant contains caffeic acid and rosemarinic acid, ingredients with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Teas and potions made from rosemary plants help treat asthma, liver disease and heart disease. According to a 1998 study by Dr. B.T. Zhu in "Oxford Journals," the ingredients in rosemary work as an estrogen-blocker, according to The Healthier Life. Rosemary is also a mild diuretic. The German Commission E has approved rosemary to treat high blood pressure, rheumatism and dyspepsia. Rosemary is not considered toxic, but large doses can cause seizures, according to Drugs.com.

Insect Deterrent

• This plant is helpful in deterring certain insects in the garden. Carrot flies, bean beetles and cabbage moths dislike rosemary plants. Place rosemary plants near susceptible crops to protect them from these insects. Cut sprigs of rosemary and place near carrot tops to protect them from flies.