Rosemary is an adaptation of Latin Ros marinus which translates to "dew of the sea", so named because it favors coastal habitats.  Rosemary is native to the western Mediterranean region. Its fragrance can be sensed as far as20 miles out to sea.

The history of the plant is recorded as far back as ancient Greece. In ancient Greece, rosemary had a reputation of improving the mind and memory, leading Greek students to wear garlands around their heads while taking exams or studying their lessons. Most likely from Greek studying habits, rosemary came to signify remembrance. At funerals, mourners carried fresh sprigs to toss onto the grave to signify that the deceased would not be forgotten.

Later rosemary became a symbol of fidelity, finding a place in ceremonies of not just burial but also weddings. Sprays were traditionally included in the bride’s bouquet.

The Queen of Hungary bathed daily in an essence of rosemary and was so known for her beauty at 72 that the enchanted King of Poland begged for her hand. As it has become known, "Hungary Water" is the oldest-known perfume and it is still made today.

Rosemary has had a long history of medicinal uses. In rosemary lore, it was known to cure nervous headaches, trembling, dizziness and stomach disorders. Besides improving the memory, disinfecting the air and repelling moths, rosemary is good as a hair conditioner. It is also reported to be diuretic, diaphoretic, stimulative, astringent, stomachic, carminative, cholagogic, emmenagogic and antispasmodic. The list is endless.