Rosemary leaf

Rosmarini folium, rosemary leaf.  

Rosemary leaf consists of the fresh or dried leaf, gathered while flowering, of Rosmarinus officinalis L.  [Fam.  Lamiaceae], as well as its preparations in effective dosage.  

The drug contains at least 1.2 percent (v/w) essential oil, in reference to the dried leaves.  

Uses

Internal:

• Dyspeptic complaints.  

External:

• Supportive therapy for rheumatic diseases, circulatory problems.  

Contraindications

None known.  

Side Effects

None known.

None known.  

Internal:
Daily dosage:

• 4 - 6 g of herb;
• 10 - 20 drops of essential oil;*
• equivalent preparations.  

External:

• 50 g of herb for one full bath;
• 6 - 10 percent essential oil in semi-solid and liquid preparations;
• equivalent preparations.  

Cut drug for infusions, powder, dry extracts and other galenical preparations for internal and external use.  

Experimental:

• Antispasmodic on gall passages and small intestines;
• Positive inotropic;
• Increases flow through the coronary artery.  

In humans:

• Skin irritating;
• Stimulates increased blood supply (external use).  

*[Ed.  note:The essential oil dosage appears excessive and possibly unsafe.  A more reasonable dosage for internal use would be 2 drops (1 ml).]