Herb of the Week – Rosemary

Botanical Name: Rosemarinus officianalis

Folk Names: Compass Weed, Elf Leaf, Sea Dew, Incensier, Libanotis

Gender: Masculine

Planet: The Sun

Element: Fire

Astrological: Leo, Aries, Sagitarius

Deities: Oshun, Isis, Demeter, Hecate, Anubis

Magical Uses: Clearing, Protective, Memory, Love, Lust, Healing, Funerary

Rosemary is one of the oldest, most versatile, and important herbs used in magic and charm-making. Censing or fumigating (also known as smudging) with rosemary can be used before a ritual or at any time to clear a space of negative energies. If you don’t have frankincense on hand to purify a space, rosemary can be a very effective substitute.

 

This herb has long enjoyed a reputation of promoting relaxation and good sleep. Place a sprig or two of fresh rosemary under your pillow to prevent nightmares and to promote a delicious sense of peace. Rosemary in the bath water before turning in for the night can also help with relaxation and protect at night.

Hanging a bunch of rosemary sprigs on the front porch can keep thieves away from your doorstep.

If you are looking for job opportunities or for more success in your life in general, carry a sprig of rosemary in a red pouch on your person as you go out and about in the world.

When making up a bit of incense to be burned on a thurible, a bit of rosemary can inspire love and cause the one who is desired to think of you. In the sickroom, rosemary can help ease the atmosphere and promote healing. This particular herb is  often used as a funerary herb to be burned as someone is getting ready to pass into the next world.

 

Rosemary is also said to attract the Fae, Elves in particular. If you are looking for an answer or seeking knowledge in any situation, burning rosemary can help.