Rosemary has long-lived reputation for improving memory and has been traditionally known as the remembrance herb. Rosemary is an analgesic, antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and encephalic herb. It improves circulation and increases mental activity, focus and concentration. It boosts the function of the liver, helps to lower blood sugar and relieves pain associated with migraines, rheumatism and arthritis.

Nutritional components:

Rosemary is a good source of vitamin A, C, E and is exceptionally rich in B-complex vitamins, such as folic acid, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, riboflavin and high levels of folates. Rosemary is a rich source of minerals like potassium, calcium, iron (83% of RDA per serving), manganese, copper, and magnesium.

Key constituents:

Caffeic acid and rosemarinic acid which shield the brain from free radicals, thereby lowering the risk of stroke and Alzheimer’s disease.

Carnosol which is a potent anti-cancer compound.

1,8-Cineole (terpene)

  • has the ability to enter the blood stream by inhalation and cross the blood-brain barrier
  • inhibits the enzymes that break down acetylcholine—the principle neurotransmitter in the brain, which helps synapses fire.
  • cognitive impairment in Alzheimer’s is associated with low dopamine and 1,8-cineole increases dopamine release in brain cells (Wolfe et al 1990), (Kako et al 2008)

The most commonly prescribed pharmaceuticals for treating loss of cognitive function in Alzheimer’s disease are AChE inhibitors, also known as cholinergic drugs. All three of the major constituents of rosemary oil individually inhibit (AChE), as do three of its minor constituents.

Researchers from Northumbria University in the United Kingdom found that the amount of 1,8-cineole, a main chemical in rosemary oil, in the blood is linked with brain performance. Their work was published in the journal Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology. After the researchers exposed 20 people to different levels of rosemary oil aroma, they found that the more 1,8-cineole in the bloodstream of the person, the better the person’s performance on both the speed and accuracy tests. Researchers also noted a small effect on mood (Chan).

Contra-indications:

Rosemary is generally considered safe when taken in recommended doses and is approved by the German Commission E, which examines the safety and efficacy of herbs. Because higher doses of rosemary may cause miscarriage, pregnant and nursing women should not take rosemary as a supplement. It is not recommended for children under 18 years of age. It is safe to eat as a spice in food. People with high blood pressure, ulcers, Crohn’s disease, or ulcerative colitis should not take rosemary. Rosemary oil can be toxic if ingested, and should never be taken orally. The essential oil may irritate the skin when applied externally.

Consult with your doctor or pharmacist when taking rosemary with any other prescribed medications.  Of particular concern are blood-thinning drugs, ACE inhibitors taken for high blood pressure, diabetes medications, diuretics and lithium (because of its diuretic effects, rosemary might cause the body to lose too much water and the amount of lithium in the body to build up to toxic levels).

References:

Christopher, John R., Herb Syllabus. Springfield, UT: Christopher Publications, 2020.

Duke, James A. The Green Pharmacy. New York, NY: Rodale Press, Inc., 1997.

Stuart, Catherine. The Illustrated Guide to Massage and Aromatherapy. London: Anness  Publishing, Ltd., 2006.

Kowalchik, Claire and Hylton, William H. Rodale’s Illustrated Encyclopedia of Herbs. Emmaus, PA: Rodale Press, 1987.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/amy-chan/

Kako H, Fukumoto S, Kobayashi Y et al 2008 Effect of direct exposure of green odour   components on dopamine release from rat brain striatal slices and PC12 cells. Brain  Research Bulletin 75:706-712

Moss M, Oliver L 2012 Plasma 1,8-cineole correlates with cognitive performance following  exposure to rosemary essential oil aroma. Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology doi: 10.1177/2045125312436573

Moss M, Cook J, Wesnes K et al 2003 Aromas of rosemary and lavender essential oils  differentially affect cognition and mood in healthy adults. International Journal of  Neuroscience 113:15-38

Wolfe N, Katz DI, Albert ML et al 1990 Neuropsychological profile linked to low dopamine: in Alzheimer’s disease, major depression, and Parkinson’s disease. Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, & Psychiatry 53:915-917