The rosemary is a perennial herbaceous plant which is woody in nature with fragrant needle-like leaves. The flowers are available in a variety of different shades like white, pink, purple or blue. It is commonly found in the Mediterranean region and in Uruguay because the plant grows well in lime soil and on dry, sunny mountain slopes. An average annual rainfall of 350mm-700mm is preferable for its growth though the plant can withstand up to a maximum of 1200 mm rainfall.

The plant is very attractive and is used mainly for landscaping and decorative purposes. The herb is also noted for producing essential oils which is extracted from its leaves and the flowering parts of the plant. These essential oils have many different uses, including medicinal and non-medicinal ones.

There are many medicinal uses of Rosemary. The essential oil produced from rosemary heals wounds and burns. Its mild analgesic properties are good for curing headaches. It is a good stimulant and helps overcome physical fatigue as well as mental stress. The oil is very effective in curing dandruff and is supposed to help promote hair growth. It is a strong pest resistant and keeps away insects and fleas. It is a powerful disinfectant which is used as an ingredient in mouthwashes. It also helps improve memory and retention. Moreover, both the fresh as well as the dried leaves of rosemary are used in traditional Mediterranean cuisine as a herb for flavouring food.

Rosemary also has many non-medicinal uses. It symbolizes loyalty, friendship and remembrance in many cultures. In the olden times, rosemary was used in all important festivals like weddings, war commemorations and at funerals as a symbol of remembrance. Rosemary was thrown into the graves by the mourners in order to remember the deceased.