Rosemary Leaf Supercritical Extract
Also known as: Rosemary, Rosemary Leaf, Rosemary Leaf Extract, Rosmarinus officinalis
Overview
Rosemary leaf extract is derived from *Rosmarinus officinalis*, a Mediterranean herb known for its culinary and medicinal uses. It is primarily used for its potential cognitive-enhancing and antioxidant properties. The extract contains bioactive compounds such as carnosic acid, rosmarinic acid, and essential oils like camphor and borneol. Research suggests it may improve cognitive function, protect against oxidative stress, and aid digestion. Rosemary leaf extract is available in various forms, including capsules, tinctures, and essential oils, with supercritical extracts often preferred for enhanced bioavailability. The quality of available evidence is generally good, with several high-quality studies and systematic reviews supporting its benefits. It interacts with the central nervous system, gastrointestinal system, and immune system.
Benefits
Rosemary leaf extract has shown potential cognitive enhancement and antioxidant activity. A systematic review indicated that carnosic acid in rosemary extract may have neuroprotective effects and improve cognitive function, with some human studies showing improvements in cognitive tests like the MMSE. Rosemary extract also possesses strong antioxidant properties, helping protect against oxidative stress, particularly beneficial for older adults or those with chronic diseases. A study in *Food Chemistry* demonstrated its antioxidant capacity in vitro. Cognitive benefits may require long-term supplementation to manifest.
How it works
Rosemary extract acts through multiple biological pathways. Its antioxidant properties involve scavenging free radicals and reducing oxidative stress. Neuroprotective pathways include modulating neurotransmitter systems and reducing inflammation in the brain. Key compounds like carnosic acid and rosmarinic acid interact with enzymes involved in inflammation and oxidative stress. It interacts with the central nervous system, gastrointestinal system, and immune system. Supercritical extraction is often used to enhance the bioavailability of rosemary extract compounds.
Side effects
Rosemary leaf extract is generally considered safe when used in recommended doses. Common side effects (occurring in >5% of users) include gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea or stomach pain. Uncommon side effects (1-5%) may include allergic reactions like skin rashes or itching. Rare side effects (<1%) include reports of seizures, particularly in individuals with a history of seizure disorders. It may interact with anticoagulant and diabetes medications due to potential effects on blood sugar and clotting. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should use it with caution due to limited safety studies. Individuals with epilepsy or those taking anticoagulant medications should consult a healthcare provider before use.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of rosemary leaf extract is not well-established but typically ranges from 100-500 mg per day. For cognitive enhancement, doses of 300-400 mg per day have been studied. There is no established maximum safe dose, but doses above 1 gram per day are not commonly studied. It can be taken at any time of day, but taking it with meals may help reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Supercritical extracts are often preferred for their higher bioavailability. Bioavailability can be enhanced by combining with fatty meals or using formulations that improve solubility. Adequate hydration is recommended.
FAQs
How long does it take to see cognitive benefits?
Cognitive benefits from rosemary leaf extract may take several weeks to months to manifest with consistent use.
Can I use rosemary leaf extract if I have epilepsy?
It is generally advised to avoid rosemary leaf extract or consult a healthcare provider if you have epilepsy due to the risk of seizures.
Is rosemary leaf extract safe during pregnancy?
Use rosemary leaf extract with caution during pregnancy and consult a healthcare provider due to limited safety data.
What are the potential interactions with medications?
Rosemary leaf extract may interact with anticoagulants and diabetes medications, potentially affecting blood sugar and clotting.
Can I take rosemary leaf extract if I have allergies?
Monitor for allergic reactions and consult a healthcare provider if symptoms occur after taking rosemary leaf extract.
Research Sources
- https://content.iospress.com/articles/journal-of-alzheimers-disease/jad130031 – A systematic review found that rosemary extract, particularly carnosic acid, showed promising neuroprotective effects and improved cognitive function in animal models and some human studies related to Alzheimer's disease. The review highlighted the potential of rosemary extract as a therapeutic agent for cognitive decline, though it noted heterogeneity in study designs and populations as a limitation.
- https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2007.05.078 – An in vitro study demonstrated the strong antioxidant activity of rosemary extract. The study provided mechanistic insights into how rosemary extract can protect against oxidative stress, though it's important to note that in vitro results may not directly translate to human effects.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/ptr.3719 – A randomized controlled trial with 80 healthy adults found that rosemary essential oil improved cognitive performance in a memory test after 4 weeks. While the study provides some evidence for cognitive benefits, it was limited by a small sample size and short duration.