Ursole Rosemary Standardized Extract
Also known as: Rosemary, Rosemary Extract, _Rosmarinus officinalis_
Overview
Rosemary extract is derived from the leaves and flowers of the _Rosmarinus officinalis_ plant, known for its rich content of bioactive compounds such as carnosic acid, ursolic acid, and oleanolic acid. This herbal extract is celebrated for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potential neuroprotective properties. It is commonly utilized to support cognitive function, reduce inflammation, and enhance antioxidant defenses. Research on rosemary extract is moderately mature, revealing various health effects, although the quality of evidence is mixed, with some high-quality studies alongside inconsistencies and limitations. Forms of rosemary extract include capsules, tablets, and liquid extracts.
Benefits
Rosemary extract is recognized for several evidence-based benefits. Cognitive function improvement is suggested, albeit not robustly supported by evidence; one systematic review noted potential cognitive benefits requiring further research. Significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects have been observed, particularly in gut microbiota studies. Additionally, secondary effects include improvements in muscle health and metabolism linked to ursolic acid, though less specific data are available on rosemary. Male fertility studies in rats indicated some benefits when combined with exercise, but the impact on human fertility metrics remains uncertain. While post-operative sore throat relief showed no significant advantage over saline in one clinical trial, the variability in effect sizes across different studies necessitates more rigorous research to establish clinical significance.
How it works
Rosemary extract operates through several biological pathways, chiefly focusing on antioxidant defense and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. The key compounds, such as carnosic acid and ursolic acid, interact with various molecular targets associated with inflammation and oxidative stress, modulating gut microbiota and supporting neuroprotection. This multimodal action promotes various health benefits, particularly in gastrointestinal and central nervous systems.
Side effects
Rosemary extract is generally deemed safe at moderate amounts; however, concerns about high doses or prolonged use persist. Common side effects, though under-researched, may include gastrointestinal upset or allergic reactions affecting over 5% of users. Uncommon side effects remain largely unreported at 1-5%, while rare severe allergic responses or drug interactions (especially with blood thinners) are noted, though minimal documentation exists. It may also be contraindicated for individuals with epilepsy due to potential medication interactions. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should exercise caution due to insufficient safety data.
Dosage
The dosing guidelines for rosemary extract indicate typical consumption of 100 mg to 500 mg daily, geared towards specific health outcomes. The minimum effective dose lacks a clear consensus, and higher amounts exceeding 1 gram per day should be avoided unless overseen by a healthcare provider. To enhance absorption, taking the supplement during meals, ideally with healthy fats, is recommended. The form of rosemary extract can vary, and each form may have specific considerations regarding absorption and efficacy.
FAQs
Is rosemary extract safe?
Rosemary extract is generally safe when consumed in moderation but should be approached with caution at high doses or prolonged use.
When should I take rosemary extract?
It can be taken at any time of day, preferably with meals to enhance absorption.
What results can be expected from rosemary extract?
Results vary by the targeted health benefit; for example, antioxidant effects may take several weeks to manifest.
Are there misconceptions about rosemary extract?
A common misconception is that it can significantly enhance cognitive function or male fertility, despite limited supporting evidence.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/microbiology/articles/10.3389/fmicb.2022.1024682/full – This systematic review highlights the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potential neuroprotective properties of rosemary extract. However, it emphasizes the need for more rigorous trials to better establish certain health benefits.
- https://jbiochemtech.com/storage/models/article/kUQ6LOYMAbVZqQdK7ebMH5mnP415c0BvzmuqKYjZk3QIQPiuHfkN4RFSjuRm/effects-of-rosemary-extract-on-sore-throat-after-intratracheal-intubation-a-double-blind-clinical-.pdf – This double-blind clinical trial involving 70 patients found no significant difference in the reduction of postintubation sore throat between rosemary extract and saline treatment, highlighting limitations in the clinical application of rosemary extract for this purpose.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22432564/ – This animal study explored the synergistic effects of rosemary extract combined with aerobic exercise on male fertility. While it showed improvements in some testicular histomorphology, there were no significant enhancements in fertility metrics, underscoring the need for further research.
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