Five Possible Health Benefits of Rosemary Herb

Rosemary is a fragrant evergreen Mediterranean herb. The herb not only tastes good in culinary dishes, such as rosemary added to pasta and chicken, but it is also a good source of iron, calcium, and vitamin B-6. It is also available as a whole dried herb or a dried powdered extract, while teas and liquid extracts are made from fresh or dried leaves. 

The herb has been used since ancient times for its medicinal properties. Traditionally, rosemary was brought to use to improve memory, help alleviate muscle pain, boost the immune and circulatory system, and promote hair growth.

However, few benefits of rosemary herb still need more concrete evidence but here is a list of possible benefits:

• Improves Memory

Having rosemary in your diet may mildly improve memory in young adults. Using rosemary aromatherapy seems to enhance some measures of memory. Rosemary aromatherapy also seems to improve and increase alertness. As per the research stated in Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology, the aroma from rosemary can improve a person’s performance, concentration, speed, and accuracy.

• Have beneficial antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds

Rosemary is packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which are thought to help boost the immune system and improve blood circulation. Research shows rosemary to be rich in antioxidants, which play a vital role in neutralizing harmful particles called free radicals.

• Enhances digestion

Rosemary is often used to help treat indigestion in Europe and Germany’s Commission E has approved rosemary for the treatment of indigestion. However, there is currently no meaningful scientific evidence to support this information.

• Neurological protection

Rosemary may also be good for your brain as it contains a compound called carnosic acid, which can fight off damage by free radicals in the brain. The herb appears to be protective against brain damage and might improve recovery.

• Prevents brain aging

Research suggests that rosemary may significantly help prevent brain aging. The therapeutic ability of rosemary for the prevention of Alzheimer’s is one positive aspect, but more evidence is needed.

Possible Risks

If used in typical amounts to flavor food, rosemary is likely safe for most people. It is also possibly safe when used for medicinal purposes in appropriate doses for a short period of time. As per medical sources, a typical dosage of rosemary leaf is 4 to 6 grams daily. It is advised that rosemary essential oil should not be used internally.

Word of caution: Also, rosemary dosages should not be used by pregnant women or women who wish to conceive.

There are some reports of allergic reactions to rosemary if taken in high doses. Few side effects may include vomiting, spasms, coma, and in some cases, fluid in the lungs. 

Over to you

It is not only used as a culinary condiment but also to prepare bodily perfumes, and for its potential health benefits. Rosemary is a key ingredient in various pasta sauces, pizza recipes, and vinaigrettes. This perennial woody herb also has an ancient history of being used for medicinal and health benefits.