Used in kitchens around the world, rosemary is best known for its distinctive aroma and culinary uses. But beyond its role in cooking, this fragrant herb is also gaining attention for its impressive health benefits, particularly when it comes to brain function, inflammation, and immune support.
Recent research suggests that rosemary may hold promise in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease—the leading cause of dementia globally.
Historically, rosemary has been associated with memory and mental clarity. In ancient Greece and Rome, students and scholars would use the herb to enhance concentration and recall. That tradition has some scientific backing today: in one recent study, participants exposed to the scent of rosemary performed better on memory tasks than those in an unscented environment.
But how exactly does rosemary affect the brain? Several mechanisms may be at work.
One of the key compounds in rosemary is 1,8-cineole, which helps prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine—a neurotransmitter crucial for learning and memory. By preserving acetylcholine levels, rosemary may support cognitive performance, especially as we age.
Another advantage? Rosemary is rich in antioxidants, which protect brain cells from damage caused by oxidative stress—one of the main contributors to cognitive decline.
The herb is also packed with phytochemicals—natural plant compounds with health-boosting effects. One of the most potent is carnosic acid, known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps shield brain cells from the types of damage linked to Alzheimer’s disease.
This year, researchers developed a stabilized form of carnosic acid known as diAcCA. In promising preclinical studies, this compound improved memory, increased neural connectivity, and reduced levels of harmful proteins associated with Alzheimer’s, including beta-amyloid and tau.
What makes diAcCA particularly exciting is its targeted action: it activates only in areas of the brain affected by inflammation. This could significantly reduce potential side effects.
So far, mouse studies show no signs of toxicity, raising hopes that future human trials will yield positive results.
Researchers also believe that diAcCA could help treat other inflammation-related conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and Parkinson’s disease.