It’s said that on her family’s flight to Egypt, a rosemary bush sheltered and protected them. High in antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory compounds. However, the studies listed below should not be interpreted as supportive of any health benefit. The cancer cell types that have been studied include [44, 45, 46]: Carnosic acid is the active compound with the strongest effect on cancer cells so far. Rosemary oil has been widely used to support hair growth and prevent alopecia, according to research published in the "Journal of the American Medical Association Dermatology" in 1998. Always consult your doctor before using any herbs if you are taking pharmaceutical medications. Some traditional practitioners believe that it can improve memory and regrow hair, but the scientific evidence is often scant or contradictory, and it may produce adverse effects in excess. Rosemary tea is very easy to make at home and only requires two ingredients — water and rosemary. Modern research has shown that rosemary does, in fact, prolong the quality and shelf life of meats through inhibiting the growth of bacteria.1. These 12 foods are high in antioxidants and can help keep your cells healthy. The extract appeared to become more effective the longer it was taken, with the greatest effect measured at the end of the 12 week trial [, More skin cells survived in the volunteers who received rosemary extracts. Rosemary has also been found to kill some fungi on direct exposure [2, 28, 29]. (For this effect it combines well with ginger. Future trials will clarify its potential role. Inhaling rosemary oil when you’re feeling fatigued or tensed acts as a stimulant and helps increase your blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate. In a study of 144 volunteers, aromatherapy with rosemary improved working memory performance, memory quality, and increased alertness. In summary, when consumed in food, Rosemary is likely safe to use and may also be applied to the skin or inhaled, however, when consumed in large amounts, serious side effects may result necessitating the need to speak to a health professional before intake. Should I Use Rosemary Oil for Hair Growth? 1 (2003): 15–38. Rosemary extracts showed antiviral properties against HIV in a cell study, but only at concentrations that were themselves harmful [30]. Align your health hacks with your genes for optimal health & cognitive function. While the extract did not decrease food intake, it increased fat loss [, Rosemary’s active compounds have demonstrated antioxidant activity [, In cells, rosemary extracts were better at stopping oxidative damage than commonplace antioxidants such as butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), Trolox, and, Rosemary extracts completely stopped bacterial growth in multiple strains of bacteria (Gram-positive and Gram-negative). Pharmacist, Bodybuilder, Nutrition Consultant, Fitness Pro. As tincture (dried herb): 1:5, 40% alcohol: 2 to 4 mL, 3 times per day.15, During pregnancy and breastfeeding, it is safest to avoid rosemary in large doses. People taking these extracts saw good results after 8 weeks and even stronger results after 12 weeks.3 (Rosemary is used in the Elderflower Facial Serum on page 208 and Green Tea and Rose Facial Cream on page 246 of Alchemy of Herbs. (Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2008). Talk to your doctor to avoid unexpected interactions. At higher doses, rosemary extracts decreased the production of inflammatory molecules (such as IL-1β, It decreases the production of nitric oxide, a product of inflammation [, Rosemary essential oil significantly reduced, (leukocyte) rolling, another process central to the inflammatory response [, Cell and mice studies found that rosemary possessed antithrombotic effects, meaning it stopped blood from clotting and restricting blood flow [, In a cell study, rosemary reduced the activity of platelets, which are the cells responsible for the clotting of blood [, Various rosemary extracts decreased ulcers from 44-51.8% in rats. This effect has not been investigated in humans, though we do recommend caution if you are taking any medication that thins the blood or prevents clotting. Rosemary health benefits includes promoting immune function, preventing indigestion, protecting the skin and nourishing the hair, providing protection to the brain, enhancing concentration and retention, preventing cancer and preventing macular degeneration. Tierra, Lesley. © 2005-2020 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. You may wish to avoid rosemary entirely if you are currently undergoing chemotherapy. Using culinary amounts of rosemary is a great way to enjoy its flavor and improve digestion. Studies of guinea pigs found that rosemary oil reduced spasms in the heart (ileum and atria) [43]. He then started working as a freelancer, mainly in science writing, editing, and consulting. In a study of 12 volunteers, rosemary extracts with citrus extracts protected the skin against UV damage better than each supplement alone. Rosemary is able to provide relief to nearly all types of spasms as it may effectively initiate normal contractions in nerves, muscles and even the intestines in order to promote better movement of the muscles and organized or regulated contraction in other parts of the body. No clinical evidence supports the use of rosemary for any of the conditions listed in this section. There is relatively good evidence that rosemary could help improve memory retention and retrieval. Our team comprises of trained MDs, PhDs, pharmacists, qualified scientists, and certified health and wellness specialists. Rosemary is also frequently used in aromatherapy for relaxing the nervous system since it induces calmness while relieving pain caused by arthritis. Another 2-month study in 66 industrial employees noted that those who drank 2 teaspoons (4 grams) of rosemary in 2/3 cup (150 ml) of water daily reported feeling significantly less burnt out at their jobs, compared with those who drank nothing (19). This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. “Protective Effects of Citrus and Rosemary Extracts on UV-Induced Damage in Skin Cell Model and Human Volunteers.” Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology 136 (July 5, 2014): 12–18. By using our website you agree to our use of cookies. Though studies on rosemary tea specifically are lacking, evidence shows that drinking and inhaling compounds in rosemary tea may help boost your mood and improve your memory. In traditional medicine, rosemary has been given to women suffering from painful menstruation (dysmenorrhea). In fact, simply smelling rosemary appears to be beneficial. Rosemary may increase the potency of cisplatin, 5-fluorouracil, and some other chemotherapy drugs. Last medically reviewed on November 7, 2019. Pregnant women who consume adequate folate may be less likely to have a child with birth defects. Diabetics and people with high blood sugar are also advised to consume rosemary in moderation as it can raise blood glucose levels [51]. The researchers concluded that while it didn’t directly relieve pain, it improved the patient’s experience of it.6, Rosemary is famously called the herb of remembrance and has long been used as a symbolic way to remember a loved one or event, such as in weddings and funerals. It’s actually one of the most powerful herbs and essential oils on the planet!. Gedney, Jeffrey J., Toni L. Glover, and Roger B. Fillingim. Kerns studied English literature and neurology at UC Davis. Dietary Fiber- 56% RDI Compounds in rosemary tea may protect the health of your brain — both from injury and impairment from aging and neurodegenerative diseases. One study in 20 healthy young adults observed that inhaling rosemary aroma for 4–10 minutes before a mental test improved concentration, performance, and mood (20). A plus sign next to the number “[1+, 2+, etc...]” means that the information is found within the full scientific study rather than the abstract. Macular degeneration is a progressive breakdown of the macula in the eye, possibly causing partial blindness in older persons. This potential use is purely speculative, however; clinical studies will be required. Hay, I. C., M. Jamieson, and A. D. Ormerod. Science has since validated that smelling rosemary essential oils reduces test anxiety and can significantly enhance memory.7, 8, 9. While the use of herbs to treat common complaints has long historical roots, it is best to discuss herbal therapies with your doctor or other qualified health care professional. In animals, rosemary has been found to reduce involuntary muscle spasms. Rosemary is considered very safe to consume in food, but large quantities may interact with some medications. Ever try supplements that don’t seem to work? Rosemary may stimulate free blood flow to the skin and help in management of conditions such as eczema, dermatitis and even fungal infections thanks to its antiseptic properties. “Effect of Aromatherapy on Patients with Alzheimer’s Disease.” Psychogeriatrics 9, no. 9. In a trial of 28 elderly subjects, low doses (750 mg) of rosemary powder decreased the time taken to remember information. Required fields are marked *. It is currently unclear how bioavailable rosemary’s antioxidants are or what their effect on a living animal or human might be. doi:10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2014.04.007. This essential oil may also provide relief from congestion and allergies, and can be useful to asthmatics who find triggers in common allergens such as dust, pollen and volatile odors. What Are the Benefits of Eating Rosemary?. (Reprinted with permission.). Many of rosemary’s active compounds are able to kill microbes or reduce microbial growth on direct contact. A tablespoon of fresh rosemary supplies approximately 0.5 percent of the RDA of calcium. Carnosic acid protected part of the brain (middle cerebral artery) from tissue damage (ischemia/reperfusion injury) and reduced blood clots and brain swelling in rats [11, 19]. Protein- 3.3g In a study (DB-RCT) of 50 patients with androgenetic alopecia (permanent balding), rosemary oil increased hair counts significantly after six months [18]. While studies on rosemary tea and eye health are lacking, evidence suggests that certain compounds in the tea may benefit your eyes. Pengelly, Andrew, et al. Breastfeeding women are also advised to use rosemary in moderation [54, 55]. Also known as folic acid or vitamin B-9, folate supports the health and function of the nervous system and aids in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and protein. Some sources say that it may irritate the skin and increase the blood glucose level thus, it may not be a good choice for diabetics and it may even increase the risk of bleeding, because vomiting and may interfere with other medications. Rosemary is made up of a wide variety of oils, phenolic acid derivatives, and phenolic diterpenes including [7]: While rosemary is a safe and popular addition to a healthy diet, rosemary supplements have not been approved by the FDA for medical use. You can use the oil to purify the pores and remove the dead cells, dirt, sebum, and other impurities as well. Park, M. K., and E. S. Lee. Rosemary’s best-studied benefit may be as a memory aid. Urine retention is also common in people with thyroid problems [, Researchers are also investigating rosemary’s potential in gut disorders like IBS [, Carnosol (a compound found in rosemary) appeared to prevent liver damage in rats [, Carnosol consumption decreased malondialdehyde, a marker of oxidative stress in the liver, by 69%.