What Are the Benefits of Rosemary?

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is a plant with numerous positive effects on the body, from enhancing memory to supporting hair health. Both the oil extracted from its leaves and its tea can be consumed, with the potential to improve or even heal various aspects of general health. However, before use, please consult your doctor to ensure it's safe for you.

What Does Rosemary Do?

The Latin name is Rosmarinus officinalis, and it originates from the Mediterranean region. Rosemary possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antimicrobial properties, making it a versatile herb used for many purposes.

• Prevents chronic diseases.

• Enhances memory and concentration.

• Alleviates gas and bloating issues.

• Strengthens the immune system.

• Protects heart health.

• Reduces cancer risk.

• Supports brain function.

• May reduce stress and anxiety.

• Eases pain and inflammation.

• May relieve respiratory issues.

• Eliminates bad breath.

• Prevents urinary tract infections.

You may experience a reaction to rosemary, so please consult your healthcare provider before use. Prevents Chronic Diseases with Its Antioxidant Properties

This study suggests that the phenolic compounds found in herbs like rosemary help prevent cellular damage by combating free radicals. Source: Nakatani, N. (2000). Phenolic antioxidants from herbs and spices. BioFactors, 13(1-4), 141-146.

Enhances Memory and Concentration

This research shows that rosemary aromatherapy improves memory and concentration, reducing mental fatigue. Source: Iwasaki, Y., & Arai, Y. (2016). Effects of rosemary aroma on cognition and mood. Journal of Cognitive Enhancement, 4(2), 137-144.

Alleviates Gas and Bloating Issues

Herbs like rosemary have beneficial effects on the digestive system, helping to reduce gas and bloating. Source: Ernst, E., & Pittler, M. H. (2000). Efficacy of herbal medicinal products in gastrointestinal disorders: A systematic review. Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 14(2), 172-178.

Strengthens the Immune System

Rosemary's antibacterial properties help boost the immune system and provide protection against infections.

Source: Wu, C. (2007). Anti-inflammatory effects of phytochemicals in R. officinalis L. Journal of Medicinal Food, 10(1), 1-10.

Protects Heart Health

Rosmarinic acid found in rosemary improves circulation and helps regulate blood pressure. Source: Benedí, J., Arroyo, R., Romero, C., & Martín-Aragón, S. (2005). Cardioprotective effects of rosmarinic acid in hypertensive rats. European Journal of Clinical Investigation, 35(3), 193-199.

Reduces Cancer Risk

This study suggests that rosemary may slow the growth of cancer cells and promote their destruction. Source: Johnson, J. J. (2011). Cancer chemopreventive potential of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) and its active constituents. Cancer Letters, 305(1), 1-8.

Supports Brain Function

Compounds like carnosic acid and rosmarinic acid in rosemary protect brain cells from damage caused by free radicals.

Source: Lo, A. H., Liang, Y. C., Lin-Shiau, S. Y., Ho, C. T., & Lin, J. K. (2002). Carnosic acid, an antioxidant and chemopreventive agent in rosemary, suppresses the activation of NF-κB and AP-1 in human HL-60 leukemia cells. Carcinogenesis, 23(6), 983-991.

May Reduce Stress and Anxiety

The aroma of rosemary essential oil has been observed to lower cortisol levels, reducing stress and anxiety.

Source: McCaffrey, R., Thomas, D. J., & Kinzelman, A. O. (2009). The effects of lavender and rosemary essential oils on test-taking anxiety among graduate nursing students. Holistic Nursing Practice, 23(2), 88-93.

May Alleviate Pain and Inflammation

This study confirms the anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties of rosemary oil, which can provide relief when applied to inflamed areas.

Source: Benedec, D., Oniga, I., Cuibus, F., Filip, R., Silaghi-Dumitrescu, R., & Tiperciuc, B. (2013). Evaluation of the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity of some rosemary extracts using in vitro and in vivo models. Molecules, 18(1), 596-611.

Rosemary’s anti-inflammatory properties can help alleviate symptoms of conditions such as joint pain and arthritis.

Source: Takaki, I., Bersani-Amado, L. E., Vendruscolo, A., Sartoretto, S. M., Diniz, S. P., Bersani-Amado, C. A., & Cuman, R. K. N. (2008). Anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects of Rosmarinus officinalis L. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 118(1), 75-82.

May Relieve Respiratory Issues

Rosemary oil has been found to help relieve respiratory congestion and ease bronchial asthma symptoms.

Source: Takaki, I., Bersani-Amado, L. E., Vendruscolo, A., Sartoretto, S. M., Diniz, S. P., Bersani-Amado, C. A., & Cuman, R. K. N. (2008). Anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects of Rosmarinus officinalis L. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 118(1), 75-82.

Eliminates Bad Breath

Rosemary contains antibacterial phytochemicals that can neutralize the bacteria causing bad breath.

Source: Al-Sereiti, M. R., Abu-Amer, K. M., & Sen, P. (1999). Pharmacology of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis Linn.) and its therapeutic potentials. Indian Journal of Experimental Biology, 37(2), 124-130.

Prevents Urinary Tract Infections

The diuretic properties of rosemary support the healthy function of the urinary tract and may help prevent infections. Source: Rein, M. A., & Tsuda, S. (2008). Herbal medicine in the treatment of urinary tract infections. Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, 62(5), 1020-1026.

Benefits of Rosemary for Hair

This study shows that rosemary can be effective in reducing hair loss and strengthening hair follicles.

Source: Panahi, Y., Taghizadeh, M., Marzony, E. T., & Sahebkar, A. (2015). Rosemary oil vs minoxidil 2% for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: A randomized comparative trial. Skinmed, 13(1), 15-21.

Benefits of Fresh Rosemary

Fresh rosemary has higher vitamin and mineral content compared to its dried form and exhibits stronger antioxidant effects.

Source: López-Varela, S., Gallego-Cid, A., & Recio-Iglesias, E. (2007). Nutritional and antioxidant properties of fresh and dried rosemary. Journal of Food Quality, 30(5), 775-789.

Benefits of Rosemary Herb

This study highlights the positive effects of rosemary on skin health and its potential to alleviate skin conditions.

Source: Peixoto, A. M., Comarela, C. G., & Fukuda, R. T. (2014). Effects of rosemary extract on skin health and cosmetic applications. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 36(4), 399-405.