Rosemary is one of those herbs that can do a little bit of everything. It is a culinary herb, enhancing meat dishes and salads, but it also adds a distinct smokiness to cocktails. It is a great garnish for a smoked old fashioned or as an ingredient in a rosemary vodka cocktail.
As with all herbs, there are a few things to keep in mind when smoking rosemary. For starters, it is important to only use food-grade herbs, free of pesticides and other toxic treatments. Also, it is recommended that you smoke herbs in small quantities to avoid any possible health issues. High doses of rosemary can cause vomiting, spasms and fluid in the lungs. This herb is also known to have a stimulating effect on the heart, so it can be dangerous for those with heart problems.
Finally, it is important to be aware that rosemary contains a chemical called camphor, which can have negative side effects. For this reason, it is generally not recommended that pregnant women smoke any herb. The camphor in the smoke can cross the placenta and enter the baby’s bloodstream, causing irritation and vomiting. It can also cause low-birth-weight babies.
Overall, there is really no reason to worry about smoking rosemary if you take the necessary precautions. However, it is always recommended that you consult with a doctor before trying any new herbal supplement or herb for smoking. This is especially important if you have any existing health conditions.