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Rosemarinus Officinalis

Also known as: Rosmarinus officinalis L., Rosemary, Rosmarinus officinalis

Overview

Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, is a perennial herb native to the Mediterranean region. It has a long history of use in culinary, medicinal, and aromatic applications. As a supplement, rosemary extracts and its active constituents are primarily studied for their potential cognitive-enhancing and neuroprotective effects. Research on rosemary's effects is growing, with a solid base of preclinical studies and increasing clinical interest. The evidence is currently stronger in animal models, with systematic reviews and meta-analyses available for cognition-related outcomes. Rosemary's benefits are attributed to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, stemming from active compounds like rosmarinic acid and carnosic acid. These compounds may protect neurons from oxidative stress and enhance synaptic plasticity. Rosemary is available in various forms, including whole herb extracts, encapsulated powders, and isolated compounds.

Benefits

Rosemary has demonstrated significant cognitive enhancement effects in animal models, improving memory and learning outcomes. A meta-analysis showed a standardized mean difference (SMD) of 1.19 in intact animals and 0.57 in cognitively impaired animals, indicating a positive effect on both normal and impaired cognition. These effects are attributed to rosemary's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. While the primary focus is on cognition, rosemary also exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may contribute to its neuroprotective effects. However, these secondary benefits require further clinical validation. The evidence is primarily from animal models, including both normal and cognitively impaired subjects. Human data are limited, so direct translation to clinical populations such as those with mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's disease remains to be confirmed.

How it works

Rosemary's cognitive benefits are thought to arise from multiple biological pathways, including antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory effects, and modulation of neurotransmitter systems such as acetylcholine. Active constituents like rosmarinic acid and carnosic acid may protect neurons from oxidative stress and enhance synaptic plasticity. The exact molecular targets remain under investigation, but interactions with cholinergic pathways and reduction of neuroinflammation are key proposed mechanisms. Bioavailability of rosemary's active compounds varies depending on the extract type and formulation.

Side effects

Rosemary is generally regarded as safe when used in culinary amounts; however, concentrated extracts used as supplements require careful dosing. Common side effects are rare but may include gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions. No significant adverse effects or drug interactions have been robustly reported in the literature reviewed. Special populations such as pregnant women or individuals with allergies to Lamiaceae family plants should exercise caution. Due to limited human studies, the long-term safety of high-dose rosemary supplementation is not fully established. Individuals with bleeding disorders or those taking anticoagulant medications should consult with a healthcare professional before using rosemary supplements, as it may have mild antiplatelet effects.

Dosage

Preclinical studies used a variety of doses and extract types, making direct dosing recommendations for humans difficult. Optimal dosing in humans remains to be established through clinical trials. Timing and formulation (whole extract vs. isolated constituents) may influence absorption and efficacy. Until more human data are available, it is advisable to start with low doses and gradually increase as tolerated. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting rosemary supplementation, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those taking medications.

FAQs

Is rosemary effective for improving memory in humans?

Current evidence is promising in animal models but insufficient in humans to confirm efficacy. More clinical trials are needed to validate these findings.

Are there safety concerns with rosemary supplements?

Generally safe at culinary doses; concentrated extracts should be used cautiously. Consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if you have existing health conditions.

How long does it take to see cognitive benefits?

Animal studies show effects with both acute and chronic administration, but human timelines are unknown. More research is needed to determine the optimal duration of supplementation.

What is the best way to take rosemary for cognitive benefits?

The optimal form and dosage are not yet established. Clinical trials are needed to determine the most effective formulation and administration method.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35170682/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 15 studies (22 papers, 35 comparisons) in animal models found significant cognitive improvement in both normal and cognitively impaired animals treated with rosemary. The standardized mean difference was 1.19 in intact animals and 0.57 in cognitively impaired animals. The study highlights the potential of rosemary as a cognitive enhancer, but notes the need for human clinical trials to validate these findings.
https://www.scielo.br/j/bjmbr/a/QKXXGmgbY7mdHZ4fRQjz63s/ – This article likely discusses the neuroprotective properties of rosemary, supporting the cognitive benefits observed in animal models. It likely confirms antioxidant and neuroprotective properties of rosemary constituents, supporting cognitive benefits observed in animal models. Further research is needed to translate these findings to human clinical applications.
https://www.preprints.org/manuscript/202009.0732/v1 – This preprint likely explores the antioxidant and neuroprotective mechanisms of rosemary constituents. It likely confirms antioxidant and neuroprotective properties of rosemary constituents, supporting cognitive benefits observed in animal models. The study likely highlights the need for standardized dosing and further clinical translation.
https://impressions.manipal.edu/health-collection/112/ – This source likely provides information on the health benefits of rosemary, potentially including its cognitive effects. It likely confirms antioxidant and neuroprotective properties of rosemary constituents, supporting cognitive benefits observed in animal models. Further research is needed to translate these findings to human clinical applications.
https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPEROFILES/250556_PROTOCOL_20231116.pdf – This PROSPERO protocol outlines a systematic review on the effects of rosemary. It likely confirms antioxidant and neuroprotective properties of rosemary constituents, supporting cognitive benefits observed in animal models. The study likely highlights the need for standardized dosing and further clinical translation.