In 1987, researchers at Rutgers University in New Jersey patented a food preservative made from rosemary called rosmaridiphenol, a stable antioxidant used in cosmetics and plastic food packaging.1
Rosemary is believed to stimulate and strengthen memory.2
In ancient Greece, students would place sprigs of rosemary in their hair when studying for exams.2
Ancient Grecian mourners would throw rosemary into graves of the deceased as a symbol of remembrance.2
In England, the herb was used as a symbol of fidelity and played an important role in dress, decorations and gifts at weddings.2
Rosemary oil was used to make Queen of Hungary water, a popular cosmetic used in the 14th century.2