First let us look at the name of the subject we are examining. It
is always a good place to start. Ros Marinus which translates to “dew of the sea” . Other common names for Rosemary
are Polar Plant, Sea Dew, Elf Leaf and Compass Weed. From this list of names we can see a trend a commonality a correspondence
is you will. Most of these names are either associated with water the sea or the north.
Now that we have a little information about Rosemary naming let us look at the various sources about
its use both medicinally and magically
Magick Uses
Source: Cunningham.
Cunningham places Rosemary under the sun and considers it a fire herb he also places this plant under
the masculine gender. Cunningham lists this herb as a cleansing herb and one used for love spells.
Source: Wylunt.
Wylunt also places Rosemary under the sun but he also states that the herb is used in water rites,
psychic development and inspiration
Source: Beyerl
Beyerl again places the herb under the sun but goes on to state that it is an herb used in memory spells
and to remember as a student remembers what he is taught.
Source Grieve:
Grieve also places the herb under the influence of the sun presumable because of its cleaning and protective
influences. Grieve also makes reference to the herbs use under the name Elf Leaf. Stating that it was believed the fairy folk
lived in the leaves of the plant and used its power to shape-shift and to turn into snakes
Now let us examine the information we have. First the plant names are all related to water or the north.
Its uses are for psychic development inspiration rejuvenation and resurrection. It is a protector and cleanser. All of these
attributes are more in the realm of the Moon and Water rather than Sun and Fire. Look now at the words remembrance and memory
or to remember. I think I have given enough food for thought concerning this plant and now offer this open for discussion
if anyone would like to add to this comment or question please do
