Another sacred herb with mysterious properties. The Greeks believed that the gods enjoyed a wreath of rosemary more than one made of gold. Ancient Romans decorated their deities with rosemary and dedicated it to the goddess Venus. In the Middle Ages, it was believed to ward off evil spirits and was a must at any important life event – christenings, weddings, and funerals. Brides wore a wreath of rosemary, which was only later replaced by myrrh.

This perennial shrub grows wild in the Mediterranean, mainly in Italy, Yugoslavia, and Greece.

It is used in the preparation of meat, potatoes, soups, and sauces for marinating game, mutton, and pork. It is an inseparable part of French and Italian cuisine. It is also used in perfumery, in the production of various cosmetic products and fragrant oils, eau de cologne, and soap.

Dried rosemary is warm in nature and has a sharp taste; it releases blockages and gets things moving. Fresh rosemary has a warm nature and a bitter taste.