Rosemary | Health Benefits and Uses of Rosemary

Digestive Health Support

Rosemary Background and Benefits

Rosemary, known scientifically as Rosmarinus officinalis, is a perennial, evergreen shrub. It belongs to the Lamiaceae family, which also includes mints and many other herbs. It originates from the Mediterranean region, although rosemary is now cultivated in warm, temperate climates throughout the world. The term “Rosmarinus” means “dew of the sea” in Latin, due to the plant’s tendency to grow along coastlines.

Rosemary plants typically grow to a height of about five feet, although they can approach seven feet under ideal conditions. They are quite hardy, especially with respect to drought. Rosemary leaves are long needles that resemble those of hemlock. The flowers may be blue, pink, purple or white. The roots of this plant form an extensive, fibrous network.

The leaves have a sharp, aromatic scent and are the most commercially important part of the plant. Rosemary leaves are primarily used as a spice, especially in Mediterranean cuisine. The dried leaves are typically used to flavor roasted meats and the stuffing that goes with them. Rosemary is also readily available as a ground spice.

The rosemary plant contains many chemicals, with rosmarinic acid being the most characteristic component. The Italian chemists G. Oriente and ML Scarpatti first isolated this acid from rosemary in 1958. Additional active components in rosemary include betulinic acid, caffeic acid, camphor, carnosic acid, carnosol and ursolic acid. This large number of components provides rosemary extract with many effects, with digestive support generally being the most significant benefit.

Uses of Rosemary

Many people take rosemary extract to support the normal function of the digestive system. Additional uses of rosemary include memory support, stress management and joint health.

Memory support

Rosemary may help to maintain recall and improve absentmindedness, especially in older adults.

Digestive health support

Rosemary may help manage digestive problems such as gas and heartburn. It may also help to maintain a healthy appetite.

Stress management

Rosemary can help manage the symptoms of stress, especially heart rate. This use of rosemary is often combined with lavender oil.

Joint health support

Joint discomfort may be relieved by rosemary. These supplements often contain additional ingredients such as chamomile and hops.

Signs You May Need RNA

Intestinal gas, heartburn and loss of appetite are some of the most significant signs that you may benefit from rosemary extract. Gallbladder and liver problems may also indicate that you need rosemary. Age-related memory loss is another sign that rosemary may benefit you.

Additional signs that rosemary could help you include coughing, gout, headaches and high blood pressure. Some people with high stress levels and joint discomfort may also need rosemary.