Rosemary was first grown and used in the Mediterranean. This herb can now be found all over the world, in small shrubs. Rosemary is aromatic and has a distinct flavor so it is often used in cooking. It also appears to have properties that can ease pain and muscle aches, making it a possible health supplement for arthritis patients to add to their diets. Keep in mind, however, there have been no studies showing significant benefits from using rosemary for arthritis.
History
The use of rosemary as a symbol for friendship, love, and even remembrance of a loved one, dates back centuries. It was the Romans who first used the herb for medicinal purposes. According to Nutrition Review, the Romans used rosemary as a way to improve memory. The Greeks were then using it to heal, and rosemary was used to treat headaches in ancient China. The publication also notes that some modern research supports the anti-inflammatory properties of rosemary.
Form
Rosemary, formally known as rosmarinus officinalis, is available in many forms as the entire plant can be used. The whole herb can be dried and used or turned into a powder, which can also be put into capsules. Rosemary oil extract, which can be rubbed into tired arthritic muscles, is made from leaves that have been cut and dried. Rosemary is found in creams and lotions sold in local drugstores. It can also be used in teas and alcohol preparations.
Joint and Muscle Pain
The use of rosemary for easing joint and muscle pain is not uncommon. According to Flora Health, salves made from rosemary extracts can act as an analgesic for arthritic pains in the joints and muscles. While the University of Maryland Medical Center cautions that there is no major research that rosemary works for arthritis, it does acknowledge the use of rosemary oil to treat pain from arthritis and notes that the German Commission has approved its use for this purpose.
Availability
The best place to find rosemary is at your kitchen table. It is often used as a seasoning in everything from meat and poultry to soups and vegetables. Rosemary is often found growing near the ocean, but it can be grown indoors. It can be purchased in your local supermarket as fresh or dried sprigs. Supplements containing rosemary can be found in health food stores.
Considerations
Rosemary has been used for many different purposes that could explain its benefit for arthritis. According to Flora Health, many 20th century herbalists use rosemary as an herb to deter aging, especially for people with joint and bone conditions, like arthritis. This does not mean, however, that you should stop taking your regular medications without consulting your doctor. If you have arthritis, discuss the use of herbs with him before taking any.
Warning
While rosemary is fairly safe, it is not completely without side effects. It can cause gastrointestinal problems and even comas and pulmonary edema when taken in large quantities. Rosemary supplements can cause miscarriage so pregnant women should avoid it. It also may be dangerous for those with ulcers, colitis and high blood pressure so use caution if you have any of these conditions in addition to arthritis.
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