Rosemary: The Green Guardian for Brain Fog, Fatigue and Focus
Rosemary is a useful and accessible herb that can support people living with chronic illness, neurodivergence, or fatigue-related conditions. While it’s often used in cooking, rosemary has a long history of use in herbal medicine and has many benefits that go beyond flavour.
If you live with ADHD, brain fog, or energy crashes related to conditions like chronic fatigue syndrome or POTS, rosemary might be worth exploring. It has stimulant and nervine properties, meaning it can support the nervous system while also gently increasing alertness and circulation. This makes it helpful for improving mental focus, reducing feelings of lethargy, and supporting clearer thinking.
Rosemary improves blood flow, especially to the head and brain. Some people find it helpful when managing symptoms like poor concentration, low blood pressure, or dizziness on standing – all common in neurodivergent and chronically ill experiences. For those who deal with cold hands and feet, rosemary’s warming effect may also be beneficial.
Support for Chronic Illness and Fatigue
Rosemary may help with symptoms such as:
Post-exertional malaise
Adrenal fatigue
Muscle pain
Cognitive slowing (sometimes called “brain fog”)
Stress and low mood
It is also used to support detoxification by encouraging circulation and lymphatic movement, which can help with fluid retention and skin health.
Some studies suggest it may support people with POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome), by improving blood pressure regulation and supporting brain function. Because rosemary gently stimulates the body without being overly stimulating, it may suit people who feel overwhelmed by stronger adaptogens or energy supports.
How to Use Rosemary
Rosemary can be used in many ways:
As a tea (infuse half a teaspoon of the dried herb in hot water, up to three times daily)
As an essential oil (diffused into the room or added to a bath)
As a compress (infused in warm water and applied to muscles or joints)
In hair rinses to reduce dandruff and support scalp health
In cooking, especially to support digestion and appetite
Avoid using rosemary essential oil during the first trimester of pregnancy and avoid high doses unless advised by a practitioner. Food amounts are generally considered safe.
Using Rosemary in this way can be helpful for those with chronic illness to support with energy. For those awaiting ADHD medication or who are opting for natural remedies, popping Rosemary oil into a diffuser, along with some water and spearmint oil, can be great for reducing fatigue. Using in the morning or early afternoon is best, not in the evening, as it is a stimulant.
If you’re interested in growing your own foods, plants and herbs, you could read my blog on May Gardening: What to sow! or Microgreens for growing in minimal space.
Daily Use and Accessibility
Rosemary is easy to grow at home in a pot or garden. You can dry the leaves and store them for later use. Because it’s commonly available and low-cost, it can be a good choice if you’re looking for gentle, herbal support without relying on expensive supplements or treatments.
Some people use rosemary in their homes for emotional support. For example, it is sometimes burned as a smudge stick or kept near the front door as a symbol of protection. While these uses are not medically proven, they can bring a sense of comfort and connection to your space.
Rosemary is a simple and practical herb that may help with energy, mood and focus, especially for people who are neurodivergent or chronically ill. It’s not a cure, but it can be a helpful part of your support toolkit. You don’t need to use a lot – just a small amount, used regularly in food, may make a difference.
As always, notice how your body responds and use it in a way that feels right for you.
If you would like further advice and support on ways to implement natural remedies in your daily life, including rosemary, feel free to bring it along to your coaching session! If you are not yet accessing coaching and are interested in working with me, you can book a free discovery session below. We accept Access to Work funding for coaching.
Please Note:
This website is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition before making changes. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
