Rosemary oil season kicks off in northern Tunisia, production expected to generate 2000 jobs
Tunis , April 17, 2008 (TunisiaOnline) --The season for distilling rosemary oil, known for its therapeutic and aromatic virtues, started in the governorate of Siliana, northern Tunisia , and is expected to last until May.
This woody, perennial herb which grows in shrub with fragrant evergreen needle-like leaves and purple blue flowers, covers an area of 106 thousand hectares in the forests of Bargou, southern Siliana, but also in Kesra, Bouarada and Rouhia.
Some ten distilling unities were set up near the rosemary plantations in view of making the most of these forest resources.
These units have enabled the creation of some 2000 jobs in the region.
In 2007, the production of rosemary oil, yielded record production in the governorate of Siliana with 31 tons against an average of 6 tons, part of which is destined to exports.
This year is also expected to achieve record yields.
Known for its therapeutic virtues, rosemary oil is used to facilitate bowel movement, calm coughs, stimulate the gall bladder and the breathing system, as well as to remedy stomach aches.
This forest product is also used in tisanes, cooking and in medicines such as syrup and ointments.
Rosemary oil is also rich in essential oils and is, thus used in perfumes and other cosmetic products.
The name rosemary derives from the Latin ( rosmarinus ) which literally means "dew of the sea" in a reference to the Mediterranean origins of this herb which is now planted throughout the world.
In antiquity, rosemary oil was used by the Egyptians, as well as by the Romans to anoint their bodies and hair. Apart from being a medicinal plant, the rosemary is also full of vitamins, however, when used in large quantities it can also be a poison to the lungs.
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