By Umar Nsubuga
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is a versatile herb known for its aromatic qualities and health benefits.
Evanice Manyiraho, an experienced herbal farmer and a resident of Kicwamba in Kabarole district says by adding value to rosemary, farmers, can create various products that maximise its potential.
She says, drying rosemary leaves is one of the simplest ways to preserve the herb for long-term use.
“After harvesting, the leaves can be air-dried, oven-dried, or dehydrated and then packaged in sealed containers,” she says.
According to Manyiraho, dried rosemary can be sold as a culinary herb or as an ingredient for herbal teas, providing a longer shelf life and broader market opportunities.
She says extracting essential oil from rosemary through steam distillation can create a highly valuable product. Rosemary essential oil is in demand for aromatherapy, cosmetics, and health remedies.
“The essential oils can be sold to the beauty and wellness industry, or packaged for home use in diffusers, massage oils, or personal care products,” he says.
She also says that rosemary essential oil can also be used for aromatherapy, hair care, skincare products, and soaps.
Herbal Teas and Blends
Manyiraho says rosemary can be blended with other herbs like mint, chamomile, or lemon balm to create herbal tea blends. These blends can be packaged into tea bags or loose-leaf tea pouches if you are a creative farmer.
“Rosemary tea is popular for its calming effects and potential health benefits, and adding other herbs enhances the flavour and appeal”, she advises.
Cosmetics
Rosemary is widely used in personal care products like shampoos, conditioners, lotions, and soaps due to its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Manyiraho says you can create rosemary-based beauty products by incorporating it into the formulas for these items.
The beauty and wellness market is always looking for natural and organic products, making rosemary-based items appealing.
Manyiraho says dried rosemary, mixed with other aromatic herbs and flowers like lavender, creates potpourri or sachets. These products can be sold as natural air fresheners for homes or closets.
Rosemary honey
Manyiraho also says that the process of infusing honey with rosemary is a simple value-add that creates a unique flavour. This can be done by placing sprigs of fresh rosemary in jars of honey and letting it infuse over time.
Health benefits of rosemary
-Rosemary is known for a variety of health benefits due to its rich antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Here are some of the primary health benefits associated with rosemary:
-Rosemary contains compounds like carnosic acid that have been shown to improve memory and concentration. It is often used as a brain stimulant and can potentially help prevent cognitive decline.
-Drinking rosemary tea or using rosemary essential oil in aromatherapy can help enhance mental clarity and focus.
-Rosemary is rich in antioxidants like rosmarinic acid, which help to neutralize free radicals in the body. This boosts the immune system and protects the body from oxidative stress.
Use: Consuming rosemary-infused oils, extracts, or teas can support immune function.
-Rosemary has traditionally been used to relieve indigestion, bloating, and other digestive issues. Its antimicrobial properties also help maintain a healthy gut microbiome.
-Drinking rosemary tea or consuming rosemary extract may help promote digestion and relieve stomach discomfort.
