Rosemary contains compounds such as rosmarinic acid and other antioxidants that have been studied for their biological activity.
A warm rosemary bath may provide temporary comfort simply because warm water can relax muscles and feel soothing. The aroma of rosemary may also make the experience relaxing.
However, there is not enough clinical evidence to say that rosemary can:
- Cure arthritis
- Eliminate gout
- Remove uric acid deposits
- Repair damaged cartilage
- Replace pain medication
- Produce effects comparable to morphine
What About Gout?
Gout occurs when uric acid crystals accumulate in a joint, causing inflammation and often severe pain.
A rosemary foot bath cannot remove uric acid crystals from a joint. If you have a gout flare, appropriate medical treatment is much more effective than relying on an herbal soak.
A suddenly painful, swollen, red, or hot joint should be evaluated, especially if this is your first episode.
Rosemary Tea
Rosemary can also be prepared as a mild tea.
Ingredients
- 1 small fresh rosemary sprig
- 1 cup hot water
- Lemon or honey, optional
Directions
- Wash the rosemary.
- Place it in a cup.
- Pour hot water over it.
- Cover and steep for 5–10 minutes.
- Remove the rosemary.
- Add lemon or a small amount of honey if desired.
- Enjoy while warm.
Keep the preparation mild rather than consuming highly concentrated rosemary extracts.
A Few Safety Precautions
Rosemary used as a culinary herb is generally well tolerated, but concentrated herbal preparations can be different. People who are pregnant, have certain medical conditions, or take regular medications should check with a healthcare professional before using large amounts or concentrated rosemary products.
If joint pain is severe, persistent, accompanied by fever, or associated with significant swelling or inability to walk, medical evaluation is important.
Rosemary can be a wonderful aromatic herb and a comforting addition to a warm foot bath, but its benefits should be kept realistic: it may provide temporary comfort and relaxation, but it is not a natural replacement for medical treatment of arthritis or gout.
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