Known for its hardiness and bold taste, rosemary is a perennial herb. An ancient plant steeped in lore, rosemary has been used throughout history for the clarity and strength it brings to the mind. Here are some of the stories that have been passed down in different cultures about the rosemary plant:
Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus), known as the "dew of the sea," has been revered for millennia for its medicinal and symbolic significance. In ancient Egypt, it was used in embalming to honor the dead and placed in tombs to aid the soul's journey to the afterlife. Greek and Roman cultures valued rosemary for its cognitive-enhancing properties; students wore garlands during exams, believing it improved memory and focus. Medieval Europeans continued this tradition, associating rosemary with fidelity and remembrance. Brides adorned themselves with rosemary wreaths, and the herb was often included in wedding ceremonies and funeral rites. Beyond its symbolic roles, rosemary was utilized for various health purposes. Ancient healers employed rosemary to treat ailments such as joint pain, digestive issues, and respiratory problems. Its essential oils, rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, have been shown to support brain function, alleviate pain, and promote hair growth. Today, rosemary continues to be celebrated not only for its culinary uses but also for its enduring legacy in health and wellness traditions.
We now have modern science to support what humans have always intuited about this magical plant. Recent scientific studies have highlighted the potential benefits of rosemary, particularly its active compound carnosic acid, in the treatment and prevention of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Carnosic acid has demonstrated neuroprotective effects through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. A study by researchers at the Scripps Research Institute found that administering a stabilized form of carnosic acid to mice with Alzheimer's disease significantly improved memory function and reduced brain inflammation.
It is now known that the diterpenes in rosemary penetrate the blood-brain barrier to exert these marked neuroprotective effects. In today's world where one in three elderly people suffer from dementia, we could all use the fortifying properties of rosemary. Carnosic acid, a major diterpene found in rosemary, has demonstrated the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, allowing it to exert its effects directly within the central nervous system.
These compounds serve as the basis for biologically important substances such as retinol (vitamin A), retinal, and phytol, and are found in various plants, including rosemary. In rosemary, diterpenes like carnosic acid and carnosol have been identified as key bioactive components contributing to the herb's neuroprotective effects. Diterpenes are known for their diverse biological activities, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties.
Additionally, studies have shown that carnosic acid can protect against neurotoxicity in Parkinson's disease models by inducing antioxidative enzymes and reducing oxidative stress. These findings suggest that rosemary-derived compounds, especially carnosic acid, hold promise as therapeutic agents for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Given their neuroprotective properties and the compound's status as "generally safe" by the FDA, further clinical trials in humans are warranted to explore their efficacy and potential integration into treatment regimens.
Considering all of these beneficial factors, it doesn't hurt to eat more rosemary in the diet. Add sprigs to your oven-roasted foods as they cook, use dried and ground rosemary to your baked goods and soups, and seek out organic supplemental capsulated styles as an addition to your daily routine. As always, ask your medical provider if there are any contraindications when taking with prescription medications.
I hope this has helped you in your health journey.
Sincerely,
KJ Landis
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