Rosemary is one of the most popular aromatic herbs in traditional cooking and home wellness routines. It contains naturally occurring plant compounds that have been studied for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which has led to many traditional uses involving muscle and joint comfort.
You may have seen rosemary described online as “natural morphine” because of claims that it can eliminate muscle pain, rheumatic pain, and gout. However, rosemary is not morphine and does not work like an opioid painkiller. There is not enough evidence to say that rosemary water can cure gout, arthritis, rheumatism, or chronic joint pain.
That does not mean rosemary cannot be part of a relaxing self-care routine. A warm rosemary preparation may feel soothing, particularly when used as part of a warm bath or compress.
To prepare a simple rosemary bath, begin with a handful of fresh rosemary sprigs. Rinse them thoroughly to remove dirt and debris.
Place the rosemary in a pot containing approximately 1 to 2 liters of water. Bring the water to a gentle boil and allow the rosemary to simmer for about 10 minutes.
Turn off the heat and allow the mixture to cool until it is comfortably warm. Strain the liquid to remove the rosemary leaves and stems.
Fill a bathtub with warm water and add the rosemary infusion. Stir the water gently before getting into the bath.
Soak for approximately 10 to 15 minutes and relax. The warmth of the bath itself may help loosen tense muscles and provide temporary comfort after physical activity.
You can also use a rosemary infusion as a warm compress. Soak a clean cloth in the warm liquid, wring it out carefully, and place it over an area of muscle discomfort for several minutes. Make sure the temperature is comfortable and never hot enough to burn the skin.
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