Rosemary

Salvia rosmarinus

What is Rosemary?

Rosemary, scientifically known as Salvia rosmarinus, is an aromatic shrub known for its perennial nature, needle-shaped leaves that remain green all year round, and the white and pink to purple or blue flowers it produces. Perhaps most famously, in cooking, rosemary is a popular ingredient for its distinct fragrance and flavour and it is often used to enhance the taste of various dishes. Rosemary is also used in supplement form for its potential health benefits. Rosemary supplements contain concentrated extracts of the plant, which may include the leaves, stems, or flowers.

What does rosemary do? What are the benefits of rosemary?

Rosemary is a rich source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds[i].

Antioxidant potential

Rosemary is rich in antioxidants, including rosmarinic acid. These compounds help protect cells from oxidative damage, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases while supporting well-being[ii][iii].

Anti-inflammatory benefits

Rosemary contains anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce inflammation in the body. This can be beneficial for conditions associated with chronic inflammation, such as arthritis and cardiovascular disease[iv].

Cognitive support

Some studies suggest that rosemary has cognitive-enhancing properties. It may help improve brain fog and memory, concentration, and overall cognitive function, potentially benefiting conditions associated with age-related cognitive decline or certain neurological conditions[v][vi].

Digestive health

Rosemary has traditionally been used to support digestion. It may help stimulate digestion, relieve gastrointestinal discomfort and reduce symptoms like bloating or indigestion[vii].

Rosemary in skincare

Rosemary is popular in skincare due to its potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, which may benefit the skin's health and produce a glowing appearance[viii][ix].

Please note: rosemary essential oil should never be applied directly to skin as it can cause severe irritation. Please always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil, such as almond oil or coconut oil, prior to application.

Antioxidant protection

Rosemary is rich in antioxidants that can help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, such as pollution and UV radiation. This may help reduce signs of ageing and maintain youthful-looking skin[x].

Anti-Inflammatory properties

Rosemary contains anti-inflammatory compounds that can help soothe and calm irritated or inflamed skin. It may be beneficial for conditions such as acne, rosacea, or eczema[xi].

Antimicrobial effects

The antimicrobial benefits of rosemary make it potentially helpful for people with acne or other skin infections[xii].

Hair and scalp health

Rosemary extract is popular in shampoos, conditioners and treatments due to its potential to stimulate hair growth, improve scalp health, and combat common problems such as dandruff and hair loss[xiii][xiv].

Circulation

Rosemary is believed to have a toning effect on the skin and can help improve circulation and the appearance of varicose veins and cellulite. This can contribute to a healthier complexion and a more radiant appearance[xv].

Aromatherapy

The pleasant aroma of rosemary can have a calming and uplifting effect on mood and can be used in aromatherapy practices to promote relaxation to relieve stress[xvi][xvii]. It may also be beneficial for blocked sinuses.

Precautions

Skin sensitivity

Rosemary essential oil or concentrated extracts can cause skin irritation. It's recommended to perform a patch test before using rosemary on skin, especially if you have sensitive skin[xviii].

Digestive issues

In some people, high doses of rosemary or concentrated rosemary supplements may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, including stomach upset, acid reflux, or diarrhoea. If you experience any digestive issues, it's required you reduce the dosage or discontinue use[xix].

Interactions and contraindications

Interactions with medications

Rosemary supplements may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, codeine, paracetamol, anticoagulants, and anticonvulsants[xx][xxi]. If you are taking any medications, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting rosemary supplements[xxii].

Gastrointestinal disorders

Rosemary supplements may cause gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals. If you have severe gastrointestinal conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before using rosemary supplements[xxiii].

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

The safety of using rosemary supplements or essential oil during pregnancy or breastfeeding has not been well established in research. Avoid high-dose or concentrated rosemary supplements during these periods, as they may have potential effects on hormone levels or uterine contractions. Therefore, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional before using rosemary in supplement or concentrated form if you are pregnant or breastfeeding[xxiv].

[i] Ho CT, Wang M, Wei GJ, Huang TC, Huang MT. Chemistry and antioxidative factors in rosemary and sage. Biofactors. 2000;13(1-4):161-166.

[ii] Ghasemzadeh Rahbardar M, Hosseinzadeh H. Therapeutic effects of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) and its active constituents on nervous system disorders. Iran J Basic Med Sci. 2020 Sep;23(9):1100-1112.

[iii] Bakirel T, Bakirel U, Keles OU, Ulgen SG, Yardibi H. In vivo assessment of antidiabetic and antioxidant activities of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) in alloxan-diabetic rabbits. J Ethnopharmacol. 2008;116(1):64-73.

[iv] Ghasemzadeh Rahbardar M, Hosseinzadeh H. Therapeutic effects of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) and its active constituents on nervous system disorders. Iran J Basic Med Sci. 2020 Sep;23(9):1100-1112.

[v] Seyedemadi P, Rahnema M, Bigdeli MR, Oryan S, Rafati H. The Neuroprotective Effect of Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) Hydro-alcoholic Extract on Cerebral Ischemic Tolerance in Experimental Stroke. Iran J Pharm Res. 2016 Fall;15(4):875-883. PMID: 28243285; PMCID: PMC5316267.

[vi] Hussain SM, Syeda AF, Alshammari M, Alnasser S, Alenzi ND, Alanazi ST, Nandakumar K. Cognition enhancing effect of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) in lab animal studies: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Braz J Med Biol Res. 2022 Feb 9;55:e11593.

[vii] Veenstra JP, Johnson JJ. Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus): Health-promoting benefits and food preservative properties. Int J Nutr. 2021;6(4):1-10. Epub 2021 Jun 24. PMID: 34651071; PMCID: PMC8513767.

[viii] Oluwatuyi M, Kaatz GW, Gibbons S. Antibacterial and resistance modifying activity of Rosmarinus officinalis. Phytochemistry. 2004;65(24):3249-3254.

[ix] Elgayyar M, Draughon FA, Golden DA, Mount JR. Antimicrobial activity of essential oils from plants against selected pathogenic and saprophytic microorganisms. J Food Prot. 2001;64(7):1019-1024.

[x] Nieto G, Ros G, Castillo J. Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Properties of Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis, L.): A Review. Medicines (Basel). 2018 Sep 4;5(3):98. doi: 10.3390/medicines5030098. PMID: 30181448; PMCID: PMC6165352.

[xi] de Macedo LM, Santos ÉMD, Militão L, Tundisi LL, Ataide JA, Souto EB, Mazzola PG. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L., syn Salvia rosmarinus Spenn.) and Its Topical Applications: A Review. Plants (Basel). 2020 May 21;9(5):651. doi: 10.3390/plants9050651. PMID: 32455585; PMCID: PMC7284349.

[xii] Angioni A, Barra A, Cereti E, et al. Chemical composition, plant genetic differences, antimicrobial and antifungal activity investigation of the essential oil of Rosmarinus officinalis L. J Agric Food Chem. 2004;52(11):3530-3535.

[xiii] Panahi Y, Taghizadeh M, Marzony ET, Sahebkar A. Rosemary oil vs minoxidil 2% for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: a randomized comparative trial. Skinmed. 2015;13(1):15-21.

[xiv] Hay IC, Jamieson M, Ormerod AD. Randomized trial of aromatherapy. Successful treatment for alopecia areata. Arch Dermatol. 1998;134(11):1349-1352.

[xv] Li Pomi F, Papa V, Borgia F, Vaccaro M, Allegra A, Cicero N, Gangemi S. Rosmarinus officinalis and Skin: Antioxidant Activity and Possible Therapeutical Role in Cutaneous Diseases. Antioxidants (Basel). 2023 Mar 9;12(3):680.

[xvi] McCaffrey R, Thomas DJ, Kinzelman AO. The effects of lavender and rosemary essential oils on test-taking anxiety among graduate nursing students. Holist Nurs Pract. 2009;23(2):88-93.

[xvii] Atsumi T, Tonosaki K. Smelling lavender and rosemary increases free radical scavenging activity and decreases cortisol level in saliva. Psychiatry Res. 2007;150(1):89-96.

[xviii] Fiume MM, Bergfeld WF, Belsito DV, et al. Safety Assessment of Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary)-Derived Ingredients as Used in Cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology. 2018;37(3_suppl):12S-50S. doi:10.1177/1091581818800020

[xix] Fiume MM, Bergfeld WF, Belsito DV, et al. Safety Assessment of Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary)-Derived Ingredients as Used in Cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology. 2018;37(3_suppl):12S-50S. doi:10.1177/1091581818800020

[xx] Ghasemzadeh Rahbardar M, Hosseinzadeh H. Therapeutic effects of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) and its active constituents on nervous system disorders. Iran J Basic Med Sci. 2020 Sep;23(9):1100-1112.

[xxi] Raskovic A, Milanovic I, Pavlovic N, Milijasevic B, Ubavic M, Mikov M. Analgesic effects of rosemary essential oil and its interactions with codeine and paracetamol in mice. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2015 Jan;19(1):165-72. PMID: 25635991.

[xxii] Naemura A, Ura M, Yamashita T, Arai R, Yamamoto J. Long term intake of rosemary and common thyme herbs inhibits experimental thrombosis without prolongation of bleeding time. Thromb Res. 2008;122(4):517-522.

[xxiii] Minaiyan M, Ghannadi AR, Afsharipour M, Mahzouni P. Effects of extract and essential oil of Rosmarinus officinalis L. on TNBS-induced colitis in rats. Res Pharm Sci. 2011 Jan;6(1):13-21. PMID: 22049274; PMCID: PMC3203268.

[xxiv] Lemonica IP, Damasceno DC, di-Stasi LC. Study of the embryotoxic effects of an extract of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.). Braz J Med Biol Res. 1996 Feb;29(2):223-7. PMID: 8731353.