At a glance
Rosemary is a fragrant, nutrient-rich herb with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds such as rosmarinic acid and carnosic acid. It supports cognitive function, helps relieve pain, and promotes relaxation. This versatile herb can be enjoyed in cooking, brewed as a tea, or used for aromatherapy to enhance overall well-being.
Rosemary is a fragrant evergreen herb native to the Mediterranean region that has been used in traditional medicine for millennia.
From improving cognitive function to promoting hair growth and inducing relaxation, using rosemary can offer a range of remarkable health advantages.
Discover three unique benefits of rosemary and learn how to use this health-promoting herb at home to enhance your well-being.
What is rosemary?
Rosmarinus officinalis L., widely known as rosemary, is a hardy perennial belonging to the mint family Lamiaceae, which includes several popular herbs, such as oregano, basil, and sage.
It’s easy to cultivate as it thrives in temperate climates and is widely recognized for its aromatic leaves and medicinal properties.
Rosemary has long been used in traditional medicine for its potential health benefits, including alleviating gastrointestinal issues and improving various skin conditions.
Rosemary leaves are rich sources of essential oils linked to numerous health-promoting properties due to compounds such as rosmarinic acid and carnosic acid, which have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
In addition, its antimicrobial and astringent properties make it a popular ingredient in cosmetic products, as it helps protect the skin, clear acne, and tighten pores, resulting in a smoother complexion.
Watch the video below to uncover the many health benefits of rosemary.
Is rosemary keto-friendly?
Yes, rosemary is a keto-approved food and an excellent herb for enhancing the flavor of many ketogenic meals without negatively impacting ketosis.
Rosemary is low in carbs, high in fiber, and provides beneficial nutrients that can support weight management, making it an ideal ingredient for those following a Healthy Keto® diet.
A study published in The British Journal of Nutrition examined the effects of rosemary on animals on a high-fat diet.
The findings showed that rosemary extracts significantly reduced weight gain and improved metabolic health markers, such as fasting blood glucose and lipid levels.
3 benefits of rosemary
For centuries, rosemary has been celebrated not only for its culinary applications but also for its multitude of health benefits.
Modern science continues to uncover rosemary’s impressive effects on the body, from its neuroprotective properties to its ability to reduce inflammation and promote skin health.
Here are three reasons why you should regularly consume rosemary.
1. Enhances cognitive function
“Rosemary has been found to have neuroprotective effects linked to its rich polyphenol content,” explains Dr. Berg.
Compounds such as carnosic acid and rosmarinic acid play a crucial role in protecting the brain from oxidative damage. These phenolic compounds can enhance cognitive function, support memory, and improve mental clarity.
Research published in the Iranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences highlighted that rosemary’s antioxidant qualities have shown potential in supporting a healthy central nervous system.
Additionally, a study published in Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology found that inhaling rosemary essential oil significantly improved cognitive performance, particularly in working memory and attention-related tasks.
2. Promotes pain relief
Research published in Pharmaceutics has shown that rosemary may support pain relief, particularly for neuropathic pain.
The study found that rosemary essential oil improved blood flow, reduced pain, and lowered inflammation when applied topically.
These findings suggest that incorporating rosemary can offer pain management benefits by promoting circulation and minimizing discomfort.
3. Promotes calmness and relaxation
The aroma of rosemary essential oil has been shown to have calming effects and can help reduce stress and anxiety.
According to evidence published in the Complementary Medicine Journal, inhalation of rosemary oil was found to significantly reduce anxiety levels in patients before medical procedures, highlighting its potential use in stress management.
Rosemary uses and recipes
There are various ways to enjoy the beneficial effects of rosemary.
Drinking rosemary tea is an excellent way to experience the medicinal properties of rosemary. Simply steep fresh or dried leaves in hot water for a soothing beverage that can aid digestion and promote relaxation.
Rosemary essential oils can be used in aromatherapy to help support relaxation, improve sleep quality, and create a calming atmosphere.
When diluted with a carrier oil, such as avocado, coconut, or olive oil, rosemary essential oil can be applied to the skin as a nourishing topical or to the scalp to support hair growth.
Additionally, incorporating fresh rosemary in cooking can add a delightful flavor to your keto meals while offering potential health benefits.
Here are three delicious keto-friendly recipes featuring rosemary.
1. Bone broth
Bone broth is a nutrient-rich liquid typically made by simmering bones from beef, chicken, and pork, along with various herbs and vegetables.
Incorporating rosemary into your bone broth not only enhances its comforting flavor but also enriches it with extra vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that promote joint and gut health.
2. Keto Marinated Goat Cheese
Keto Marinated Goat Cheese is a delicious appetizer that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress friends and family.
Combining fresh herbs, including rosemary, with olive oil adds a dynamic and earthy flavor while providing an excellent source of healthy fats.
3. Easy Keto Black Olive Focaccia
This Easy Keto Black Olive Focaccia brings a taste of Mediterranean cuisine into your kitchen without compromising a low-carb diet.
Made with almond flour and flaxseed meal, this low-carb bread is infused with the aromatic flavor of fresh or dried rosemary and topped with black olives, making it a perfect side dish for any meal.
Key takeaways
- Rosemary is a rich source of polyphenols that may help protect the brain from oxidative stress and support memory and mental clarity.
- Regularly using rosemary to flavor your meals may reduce pain and inflammation, and support circulation and heart health.
- The aroma of rosemary can help lower stress, promoting calmness and relaxation.
- Rosemary can be incorporated into meals, enjoyed as tea, or used for aromatherapy and topical applications.
FAQ
1. What are the top benefits of rosemary?
Rosemary has shown potential to support cognitive function, reduce inflammation, promote hair growth, enhance relaxation, and aid digestion.
2. Can I have rosemary on keto?
Yes, rosemary is keto-friendly and can enhance the flavor and nutritional value of many low-carb meals.
3. What does rosemary do for the body?
Rosemary may help support cognitive function, hair growth, relaxation, and digestion while also offering pain relief and reducing inflammation.
4. What happens if I eat rosemary every day?
Daily consumption of rosemary is generally safe for most people and offers several health benefits. However, individuals with allergies to plants belonging to the mint family should limit or avoid rosemary due to an increased risk of sensitivities or allergic reactions.
5. How can I use rosemary?
You can use rosemary leaves to add a full-bodied flavor to meals, brew it as a soothing tea, use its essential oil in a diffuser to promote relaxation, or dilute rosemary essential oil in a carrier oil for topical use.
6. Who shouldn’t consume rosemary?
While rosemary is generally considered safe, people with allergies to plants belonging to the mint family should avoid rosemary. Additionally, pregnant women should also avoid ingesting large amounts of rosemary as it may stimulate uterine contractions.
