Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is a perennial evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean that now grows widely in much of the world, particularly in warm, sunny climates.
The plant has long, spiky needles that are green on top and silvery underneath, as well as small, blue flowers. In addition to being available as a fresh herb, rosemary is sold as a dried whole herb, dried in capsules and as an oil.
Rosemary is known to have both antimicrobial and antioxidant effects.
Both the leaves and the stems of the plant have been used for cooking and for medicinal purposes for centuries. Here’s a look at some of the ways rosemary might help your health:
1. Hair loss
Early research suggests that applying rosemary oil to the scalp is as effective as minoxidil for increasing hair count in people with male-pattern baldness.
In a research study, people who massaged rosemary and other essential oils (lavender, thyme, and cedarwood) showed improvement after seven months.
However, it is not clear whether it was the rosemary that provided a benefit.
2. Arthritis
According to the University of Pennsylvania, oils containing rosemary have been used to relieve muscle and joint pain associated with arthritis and also improve circulation. Some early research shows that taking a product containing rosemary, hops, and oleanolic acid can reduce pain associated with arthritis. More research is needed to confirm the benefit.
3. Diabetic kidney damage (Nephropathy)
Some research suggests that taking a product containing rosemary, centaury, and lovage may be able to decrease the amount of protein in the urine when taken with standard diabetes medications. Protein in the urine is a marker for kidney disease in diabetic patients.
4. Mental Tiredness
Early research shows that taking rosemary does not improve attention or mental energy in adults with low energy levels. However, study results do vary. Other studies show that it can reduce the stress of test-taking and relieve anxiety.
5. Fibromyalgia
While it was thought that rosemary could improve the effects of fibromyalgia, early research suggests that taking a product containing rosemary, hops, and oleanolic acid does not, in fact, improve symptoms of fibromyalgia.
6. Gum Disease (Gingivitis)
Early research shows that an herbal mouthwash containing rosemary and other ingredients helps to reduce gum bleeding and swelling in people with gum disease when used twice daily after meals for two weeks.
7. Cancer
A number of studies suggest that rosemary extract may prevent cancer cells from replicating, thereby stopping tumors from growing. One study found that rosemary (alone, and with curcumin) helped prevent breast cancer; another study found similar effects with rosemary on colon cancer cell replication.
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