Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) Research

Latin Name: Salvia rosmarinus or Rosmarinus officinalis (old botanical name)

Family: Lamiaceae

Rosemary has been a revered herb since ancient times.  It is a strong antiseptic, aids in cardiac health, boosts cognitive function, and more.

RESEARCH

The listings of research below represent a compilation of scientific articles found on the species, with a very brief overview description of each article/study.  Research found is catalogued by therapeutic action.  This categorized compilation of research articles does not necessarily imply that there are adequate results to demonstrate safe and/or effective human use.

GENERAL

• An overview of the benefits of rosemary essential oil includes research demonstrating antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and cognitive enhancing effects.  From: Lešnik, S., Furlan, V., & Bren, U. (2021). Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.): extraction techniques, analytical methods and health-promoting biological effects. Phytochemistry Reviews, 20(6), 1273-1328.

  Rosemary was recently moved over to the sage genus and has a new Latin name.  Read more:  Salvia rosmarinus
• Luteolin is a flavonoid found in carrots, peppers, celery, olive oil, peppermint, thyme, rosemary and oregano. This study reviews its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and anticancer activities. From:  López-Lázaro, M. (2009). Distribution and biological activities of the flavonoid luteolin. Mini reviews in medicinal chemistry, 9(1), 31-59.
• The author reviews active constituents and biological activities of rosemary.  These include: antitumor, antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, hypoglycemic, and neuroprotective effects.  From:  Andrade, J. M., Faustino, C., Garcia, C., Ladeiras, D., Reis, C. P., & Rijo, P. (2018). Rosmarinus officinalis L.: an update review of its phytochemistry and biological activity. Future science OA, 4(4), FSO283.
• A thorough review of research on rosemary is provided.    Therapeutic actions include: anti-asthma, improved cardiac health, improved eye health, improved digestive health, hepatoprotective action, anti-inflammatory activity, antioxidant actions, hypolipidemic action, hypoglycemic action, improved cognitive function, anti-ulcer, neuroprotective, anti-cancer, and anti-depressive potential.  From:  de Oliveira, J. R., Camargo, S. E. A., & de Oliveira, L. D. (2019). Rosmarinus officinalis L.(rosemary) as therapeutic and prophylactic agent. Journal of Biomedical Science, 26(1), 5.
• Zimmermann V. (1980) Rosemary as a medicinal plant and wonder-drug. A report on the medieval drug monographs. Sudhoffs Arch Z Wissenschaftsgesch 64: 351-370.
• Petersen, D. (2015). Aromatherapy materia medica.  Essential oil monographs.  American College of Healthcare Sciences.  Master of Science degree course material.

​SAFETY

• Use with caution for those with asthma or epilepsy.  Skin patch test (Petersen, 2015).
• Essential oil is contraindicated during first trimester of pregnancy and with small children (Petersen, 2015).
• Toxic induced seizures from the following plants were reported: eucalyptus, fennel, hyssop, pennyroyal, rosemary, sage, savin, tansy, thuja, turpentine, and wormwood.  Ketone constituents including camphor, pinocamphone, thujone, cineole, pulegone, sabinylacetate, and fenchone were mentioned. From:  Burkhard, P. R., Burkhardt, K., Haenggeli, C. A., & Landis, T. (1999). Plant-induced seizures: reappearance of an old problem. Journal of neurology, 246(8), 667-670.
• Do not use rosemary essential oil internally.
  • Ulibricht, C. (2010).  Natural Standard.  Herb & Supplement Guide.  An Evidence Based Reference.  Mosby Elsevier.
  • Foster, S. (2012). Tyler’s honest herbal: a sensible guide to the use of herbs and related remedies. Routledge.
• Other than in normal food amounts, do not use the rosemary herb with children, pregnant women, breast feeding women, or women who are trying to get pregnant.  Rosemary maybe a uterine and menstrual flow stimulant and also stimulate estradiol and estrone metabolism.   Further, there is insufficient medical evidence on its use during pregnancy and lactation.
  • Ulibricht, C. (2010).  Natural Standard.  Herb & Supplement Guide.  An Evidence Based Reference.  Mosby Elsevier.
  • Natural Medicines (2017).  Rosemary Monograph.  Retrieved in August, 2017.  Retrieved from www.naturalmedicines.com
  • Avoid with small children. Especially avoid near the nose; may cause severe toxicity or even death.  From:  Lis-Balchin, M. (2006). Aromatherapy science: a guide for healthcare professionals. Pharmaceutical press.
• In very large doses, the rosemary herb may irritate mucus membranes, affect drug absorption, interact with multiple prescription drugs, cause nausea, deactivate estrogen, decrease blood pressure, and increase hair growth.  From:  Ulibricht, C. (2010).  Natural Standard.  Herb & Supplement Guide.  An Evidence Based Reference.  Mosby Elsevier
• Contact Physician before use with medical conditions. May also interfere with certain medications.  Some health conditions to particularly avoid use with include:
  • Epilepsy – Toxic induced seizures from the following plants was reported:  eucalyptus, fennel, hyssop, pennyroyal, rosemary, sage, savin, tansy, thuja, turpentine, and wormwood.  Ketone constituents including camphor, pinocamphone, thujone, cineole, pulegone, sabinylacetate, and fenchone were mentioned.  From:  Burkhard, P. R., Burkhardt, K., Haenggeli, C. A., & Landis, T. (1999). Plant-induced seizures: reappearance of an old problem. Journal of neurology, 246(8), 667-670.
  • Severe asthma -The camphor constituent in excessive doses can aggravate asthma.  From:  Lemiere, C., Cartier, A., Lehre, S. B., & Malo, J. L. (1996). Occupational asthma caused by aromatic herbs. Allergy, 51(9), 647-649.
  • Bleeding disorders – Rosemary may inhibit platelet aggregation, increasing bleeding time.
    • Yamamoto, J., Yamada, K., Naemura, A., Yamashita, T., & Arai, R. (2005). Testing various herbs for antithrombotic effect. Nutrition, 21(5), 580-587.
    • Lee, J. J., Jin, Y. R., Lim, Y., Hong, J. T., Kim, T. J., Chung, J. H., & Yun, Y. P. (2006). Antiplatelet activity of carnosol is mediated by the inhibition of TXA 2 receptor and cytosolic calcium mobilization. Vascular pharmacology, 45(3), 148-153.
  • May interfere with aspirin and salicylate containing drugs, anticoagulants, cytochrome p450 substrates and more.  Contact a Physician before use with medications.   From:  Natural Medicines (2017).  Rosemary Monograph.  Retrieved in August, 2017.  Retrieved from www.naturalmedicines.com
• Dilute and skin patch test with topical use.  Rosemary essential oil can be irritating to the skin; toxic constituents include: camphor, pinene, and borneol.  Topical use can cause skin irritation and contact dermatitis.    A safe dilution ratio is 1-2% in a carrier oil.  This would equal about 6-12 drops in an ounce of carrier oil.  From:  Petersen, D. (2015). Aromatherapy materia medica.  Essential oil monographs.  American College of Healthcare Sciences.
• Avoid topically on damaged or sensitive skin
• Rosemary can cause dermatitis, photosensitivity, erythema and cheilitis in sensitive individuals.
  • Lis-Balchin, M. (2006). Aromatherapy science: a guide for healthcare professionals. Pharmaceutical press.
  • Fernandez, L., Duque, S., Sanchez, I., Quinones, D., Rodriguez, F., & Garcia‐Abujeta, J. L. (1997). Allergic contact dermatitis from rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.). Contact dermatitis, 37(5), 248-249.
  • Hjorther, A. B., Christophersen, C., Hausen, B. M., & Menne, T. (1997). Occupational allergic contact dermatitis from carnosol, a naturally‐occurring compound present in rosemary. Contact dermatitis, 37(3), 99-100.
  • Armisén, M., Rodríguez, V., & Vidal, C. (2003). Photoaggravated allergic contact dermatitis due to Rosmarinus officinalis cross‐reactive with Thymus vulgaris. Contact dermatitis, 48(1), 45-55.
• Avoid excessive use.
• Flammable.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.

ANTIMICROBIAL / ANTIBACTERIAL / ANTIFUNGAL / ANTIVIRAL

• ​Twenty-five bacteria species and one fungal species were tested against laurel, sage, rosemary, oregano, and coriander and the oils showed a high degree of inhibition against them all, with the oregano being the strongest.  From:  Baratta, M. T., Dorman, H. D., Deans, S. G., Biondi, D. M., & Ruberto, G. (1998). Chemical composition, antimicrobial and antioxidative activity of laurel, sage, rosemary, oregano and coriander essential oils. Journal of Essential Oil Research, 10(6), 618-627.
• The following essential oils were tested against a variety of microbes in a variety of environments:  cinnamon (Cinnamon zeylanicum), clove (Syzygium aromaticum), basil (Ocimum basillicum), rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), dill (Anethum graveolens), and ginger (Zingiber officinalis).   From:  Lopez, P., Sanchez, C., Batlle, R., & Nerin, C. (2005). Solid-and vapor-phase antimicrobial activities of six essential oils: susceptibility of selected foodborne bacterial and fungal strains. Journal of agricultural and food chemistry, 53(17), 6939-6946.
• Antibacterial activity against gram positive species was demonstrated by rosemary.  From:  Pintore, G., Usai, M., Bradesi, P., Juliano, C., Boatto, G., Tomi, F., … & Casanova, J. (2002). Chemical composition and antimicrobial activity of Rosmarinus officinalis L. oils from Sardinia and Corsica. Flavour and Fragrance Journal, 17(1), 15-19.
• The following essential oils demonstrated an antimicrobial effect:  Satureja montana (winter savory), Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary), Thymus vulgaris (thyme), and Calamintha nepeta (calamint).  From:  Panizzi, L., Flamini, G., Cioni, P. L., & Morelli, I. (1993). Composition and antimicrobial properties of essential oils of four Mediterranean Lamiaceae. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 39(3), 167-170.
• Lavandula officinalis, Melissa officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis showed varying amounts of antimicrobial activity on the microbes tested.  From:  Larrondo, J. V., Agut, M., & Calvo-Torras, M. A. (1994). Antimicrobial activity of essences from labiates. Microbios, 82(332), 171-172.
• Orange, eucalyptus, fennel, geranium, juniper, peppermint, rosemary, purified turpentine, thyme, and Australian tea tree oil as well as the constituent of menthol showed antimicrobial and antiplasmid activities against the bacteria tested. From:  Schelz, Z., Molnar, J., & Hohmann, J. (2006). Antimicrobial and antiplasmid activities of essential oils. Fitoterapia, 77(4), 279-285.
• Using luminescent bacterial biosensors, rosemary extract was effective against E coli.   From:  Watt, K., Christofi, N., & Young, R. (2007). The detection of antibacterial actions of whole herb tinctures using luminescent Escherichia coli. Phytotherapy research, 21(12), 1193-1199.
• Against 14 pathogenic bacteria and yeast specimens tested, the following plants showed broad spectrum antimicrobial activity:  Eucalyptus camuldulensis, Rosmarinus officinalis, Ecballium elaterium (squirting cucumber), Liquidambar orientalis (sweetgum), Cornus sanguinea (dogwood), Vitis vinifera (grape), Inula viscosa (fleabane), Hypericum perforatum (St. John’s Wort), and Punica granatum (pomegranate).  From:  Oskay, M., & Sarı, D. (2007). Antimicrobial screening of some Turkish medicinal plants. Pharmaceutical Biology, 45(3), 176-181.
• Rosemary from Sardinia showed strong antifungal activity.  From:  Angioni, A., Barra, A., Cereti, E., Barile, D., Coïsson, J. D., Arlorio, M., … & Cabras, P. (2004). Chemical composition, plant genetic differences, antimicrobial and antifungal activity investigation of the essential oil of Rosmarinus officinalis L. Journal of agricultural and food chemistry, 52(11), 3530-3535.
• Phenolic constituents of rosemary showed antiviral activity against Herpes 1.  From:  Mancini, D. A. P., Torres, R. P., Pinto, J. R., & Mancini-Filho, J. (2009). Inhibition of DNA virus: Herpes-1 (HSV-1) in cellular culture replication, through an antioxidant treatment extracted from rosemary spice. Brazilian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 45(1), 127-133.
• Rosemary oil may be useful in treating gram positive, fungal, and drug-resistant infections.  From:  Luqman, S., Dwivedi, G. R., Darokar, M. P., Kalra, A., & Khanuja, S. P. (2007). Potential of rosemary oil to be used in drug-resistant infections. Alternative therapies in health and medicine, 13(5), 54.
• Rosmarinus officinalis, Mentha piperita and Melaleuca alternifolia inhibited Listeria monocytogenes growth.  From:  Sandasi, M., Leonard, C. M., & Viljoen, A. M. (2010). The in vitro antibiofilm activity of selected culinary herbs and medicinal plants against Listeria monocytogenes. Letters in applied microbiology, 50(1), 30-35.
• Extracts from lemon balm, peppermint, prunella, rosemary, sage, and thyme showed action against Herpes types 1 and 2.  From:  Nolkemper, S., Reichling, J., Stintzing, F. C., Carle, R., & Schnitzler, P. (2006). Antiviral effect of aqueous extracts from species of the Lamiaceae family against Herpes simplex virus type 1 and type 2 in vitro. Planta medica, 72(15), 1378-1382.
• Basil, lemon balm, marjoram, oregano, rosemary, sage, and thyme showed varying degrees of antimicrobial activity on foodborne pathogens.  From:  Gutierrez, J., Rodriguez, G., Barry-Ryan, C., & Bourke, P. (2008). Efficacy of plant essential oils against foodborne pathogens and spoilage bacteria associated with ready-to-eat vegetables: antimicrobial and sensory screening. Journal of Food Protection®, 71(9), 1846-1854.
• Salad preservation was lengthened with the essential oils of thyme verbena, oregano, ajowan, tea tree, clove, sage, and rosemary.  From:  Molinos, A. C., Abriouel, H., López, R. L., Omar, N. B., Valdivia, E., & Gálvez, A. (2009). Enhanced bactericidal activity of enterocin AS-48 in combination with essential oils, natural bioactive compounds and chemical preservatives against Listeria monocytogenes in ready-to-eat salad. Food and Chemical Toxicology, 47(9), 2216-2223.
• Cloves, thyme, oregano, allspice, basil, rosemary, and marjoram showed antimicrobial effects on Shigella.  From:  Bagamboula, C. F., Uyttendaele, M., & Debevere, J. (2003). Antimicrobial effect of spices and herbs on Shigella sonnei and Shigella flexneri. Journal of Food Protection®, 66(4), 668-673.
• At high doses and undiluted, coriander, fennel, peppermint, dill, fir, juniper, rosemary, and lavender were active against E. coli, S. aureus, and Candida albicans.  From:   Şerban, E. S., Ionescu, M. I. H. A. E. L. A., Matinca, D. O. I. N. A., Maier, C. S., & Bojiţă, M. T. (2011). Screening of the antibacterial and antifungal activity of eight volatile essential oils. Farmacia, 59(3), 440-446.
• Aflotoxin production of tested fungi was prohibited by rosemary and ajowan extracts and could be used to preserve food and prevent toxigenic fungal infection.  Rasooli, I., Fakoor, M. H., Yadegarinia, D., Gachkar, L., Allameh, A., & Rezaei, M. B. (2008). Antimycotoxigenic characteristics of Rosmarinus officinalis and Trachyspermum copticum L. essential oils. International journal of food microbiology, 122(1), 135-139.
• Roman chamomile, curry plant, hyssop, lavandin, marjoram sweet, orange mint, spearmint, monarda, oregano, rosemary, rue sage, tansy, tarragon, thyme common and yarrow showed vapour activity against the fungi that causes ringworm. From:  Inouye, S., Uchida, K., & Abe, S. (2006). Volatile composition and vapour activity against Trichophyton mentagrophytes of 36 aromatic herbs cultivated in Chichibu district in Japan. International Journal of Aromatherapy, 16(3), 159-168.
• Thyme and rosemary were bacteriostatic against Listeria monocytogenes, found in raw and processed foods.  From:  Giarratana, F., Muscolino, D., Ragonese, C., Beninati, C., Sciarrone, D., Ziino, G., … & Panebianco, A. (2016). Antimicrobial activity of combined thyme and rosemary essential oils against Listeria monocytogens in Italian mortadella packaged in modified atmosphere: Thyme & Rosemary EOs vs L. monocytogenes. Journal of Essential Oil Research, 1-8.
• Basil and coriander essential oils were the most effective, and complete inhibition of Aspergillus flavus fungal growth was observed at 1000 ppm by basil, coriander, caraway and rosemary.  From:  Deabes, M., El-Soud, N., & El-Kassem, L. (2011). In vitro Inhibition of growth and aflatoxin B1 production of Aspergillus flavus strain (ATCC 16872) by various medicinal plant essential oils. Macedonian Journal of Medical Sciences, 4(4), 345-350.
• Basil, clove, garlic, horseradish, marjoram, oregano, rosemary, and thyme exhibited antibacterial activities on a foodborne pathogen, Vibrio parahaemolyticus.  From:  Yano, Y., Satomi, M., & Oikawa, H. (2006). Antimicrobial effect of spices and herbs on Vibrio parahaemolyticus. International journal of food microbiology, 111(1), 6-11.
• Rosemary extracts were antimicrobial against oral microbes and showed anti-inflammatory action in vitro.  From:  de Oliveira, J. R., de Jesus, D., Figueira, L. W., de Oliveira, F. E., Pacheco Soares, C., Camargo, S. E. A., … & de Oliveira, L. D. (2017). Biological activities of Rosmarinus officinalis L.(rosemary) extract as analyzed in microorganisms and cells. Experimental Biology and Medicine, 242(6), 625-634.
• Oregano (Origanum syriacum), thyme (Thymbra spicata), lavender (Lavandula stoechas), rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), and laurel (Laurus nobilis), inhibited growth of tomatoe fungus.  From:  Soylu, E. M., Soylu, S., & Kurt, S. (2006). Antimicrobial activities of the essential oils of various plants against tomato late blight disease agent Phytophthora infestans. Mycopathologia, 161(2), 119-128.
• Laurus nobilis (bay), salvia officinalis (sage), rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary), origanum vulgare (oregano), and coriandrum sativum (coriander) demonstrated antimicrobial, antioxidant activity, with oregano being the strongest.  From:  Baratta, M. T., Dorman, H. D., Deans, S. G., Biondi, D. M., & Ruberto, G. (1998). Chemical composition, antimicrobial and antioxidative activity of laurel, sage, rosemary, oregano and coriander essential oils. Journal of Essential Oil Research, 10(6), 618-627.
• Cedrus atlantica (cedarwood), Styrax tonkinensis (benzoin resinoid) , Juniperus communis (juniper) , Lavandula angustifolia (lavender) , Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree), Pelargonium graveolens (geranium), Pogestemon patchouli (patchouli) and Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) as well as the constituents geraniol and citronellol were analyzed for antifungal activities against Aspergillus niger and A. flavus. Most of the tested essential oils, except not C. atlantica, J. communis, and P. patchouli, showed significantly inhibited growth, and geraniol and citronellol, exhibited additive effects.  From:  Shin, S. (2003). Anti-Aspergillus activities of plant essential oils and their combination effects with ketoconazole or amphotericin B. Archives of pharmacal research, 26(5), 389-393.
• Out of 21 oils tested, cinnamon, clove, geranium, lemon, lime, orange and rosemary exhibited the strongest activity against the tested bacteria.  From:  Prabuseenivasan, S., Jayakumar, M., & Ignacimuthu, S. (2006). In vitro antibacterial activity of some plant essential oils. BMC complementary and alternative medicine, 6(1), 1.
• Canaga odorata (ylang ylang), Cymbopogon. Citratus (lemongrass), Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary)  and Curcuma longa (tumeric) showed major antimicrobial effectiveness.  From:  Sacchetti, G., Maietti, S., Muzzoli, M., Scaglianti, M., Manfredini, S., Radice, M., & Bruni, R. (2005). Comparative evaluation of 11 essential oils of different origin as functional antioxidants, antiradicals and antimicrobials in foods. Food chemistry, 91(4), 621-632.
• Melaleuca alternifolia, Thymus vulgaris, Mentha piperita and Rosmarinus officinalis were combined with conventional antimicrobials and assessed.  From:  Van Vuuren, S. F., Suliman, S., & Viljoen, A. M. (2009). The antimicrobial activity of four commercial essential oils in combination with conventional antimicrobials. Letters in applied microbiology, 48(4), 440-446.
• Prunella, peppermint, rosemary and thyme extracts provided antiviral activity against Herpes 1.  From:  Reichling, J., Nolkemper, S., Stintzing, F. C., & Schnitzler, P. (2008). Impact of ethanolic lamiaceae extracts on herpesvirus infectivity in cell culture. Forschende Komplementärmedizin/Research in Complementary Medicine, 15(6), 313-320.
• The following plant extracts were effective to treat skin infection from S. aureus bacteria:  Lonicera alpigena (alpine honeysuckle), Castanea sativa (sweet chestnut), Juglans regia (walnut), Ballota nigra (black horehound), Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary), Leopoldia comosa (hyacinth), Malva sylvestris (mallow), Cyclamen hederifolium (cyclamen), Rosa canina (dog rose), and Rubus ulmifolius (blackberry).  From:  Quave, C. L., Plano, L. R., Pantuso, T., & Bennett, B. C. (2008). Effects of extracts from Italian medicinal plants on planktonic growth, biofilm formation and adherence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 118(3), 418-428.
• A review of research was provided on the antibacterial and antioxidant actions of rosemary and cardamom, especially related to food preservation.  From:  Singh, R., & Jaglan, R. K. V. (2018). Antibacterial and antioxidant activity of green cardamom and rosemary extract in food products: A brief review.
• Cananga odorata, Boswellia thurifera, Cymbopogon citratus, Marjorana hortensis, Ocimum basilicum, Rosmarinus officinalis, Cinnamomum zeylanicum and Citrus limon exhibited considerable inhibitory effect against all the bacteria and fungi tested, and also demonstrated antioxidant activity comparable with α-tocopherol and butylated hydroxytoluene.  From:  Baratta, M. T., Dorman, H. J., Deans, S. G., Figueiredo, A. C., Barroso, J. G., & Ruberto, G. (1998). Antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of some commercial essential oils. Flavour and fragrance journal, 13(4), 235-244.
• Rosemary demonstrated antifungal activity.  From:  Özcan, M. M., & Chalchat, J. C. (2008). Chemical composition and antifungal activity of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) oil from Turkey. International journal of food sciences and nutrition, 59(7-8), 691-698.
• Helichrysum stoechas, Polygonum equisetiforme, Pulicaria crispa, Rosmarinus officinalis, and Thymus capitatus exhibited strongest activity against gram positive bacteria.   H. stoechas and P. harmala exhibited the strongest activity against gram negative bacteria.  Peganum harmala, P. crispa, and T. capitatus showed strong anticandidal activity. From:  Abdelah Bogdadi, H. A., Kokoska, L., Havlik, J., Kloucek, P., Rada, V., & Vorisek, K. (2007). In Vitro. Antimicrobial Activity of Some Libyan Medicinal Plant Extracts. Pharmaceutical Biology, 45(5), 386-391.
• Rosemary and sage were tested against 13 bacterial strains 6 fungi, and 5 dermatomycetes and showed strong antimicrobial activity.  Rosemary also showed strong antioxidant activities.  From:  Bozin, B., Mimica-Dukic, N., Samojlik, I., & Jovin, E. (2007). Antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of rosemary and sage (Rosmarinus officinalis L. and Salvia officinalis L., Lamiaceae) essential oils. Journal of agricultural and food chemistry, 55(19), 7879-7885.
• Complete inhibition of mycelial growth and aflatoxin production by the fungus Aspergillus parasticus were achieved by these oils:  thyme, cumin, clove, caraway, rosemary, and sage. From:  Farag, R. S., Daw, Z. Y., & Abo‐Raya, S. H. (1989). Influence of some spice essential oils on Aspergillus parasiticus growth and production of aflatoxins in a synthetic medium. Journal of Food Science, 54(1), 74-76.
• Rosemary, and sage essential oil and the component eucalyptol were active against yeast strains.  From:  Steinmetz, M. D., Moulin‐Traffort, J., & Regli, P. (1988). Transmission and Scanning Electronmicroscopy Study of the Action of Sage and Rosemary Essential Oils and Eucalyptol on Candida albicans/Transmissions‐und rasterelektronenmikroskopische Untersuchungen zur Wirkung von Salbeiöl, Rosmarinöl und Eucalyptol auf Candida albicans. Mycoses, 31(1), 40-51.
• Rosemary extract and its rosmarinic acid constituent showed antioxidant and antimicrobial activities.  From:  Moreno, S., Scheyer, T., Romano, C. S., & Vojnov, A. A. (2006). Antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of rosemary extracts linked to their polyphenol composition. Free radical research, 40(2), 223-231.
• Rosemary essential oil and its constituents demonstrated antibacterial and antioxidant activities.  Myrcene was the constituent associated with antioxidant activity and alpha pinene was a strong antibacterial.  1,8-cineole was effective against the E. coli bacteria.  From:  Ojeda-Sana, A. M., van Baren, C. M., Elechosa, M. A., Juárez, M. A., & Moreno, S. (2013). New insights into antibacterial and antioxidant activities of rosemary essential oils and their main components. Food Control, 31(1), 189-195.
• Rosemary and its constituents carnasol and carnosic acid showed activity against the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus.   From:  Oluwatuyi, M., Kaatz, G. W., & Gibbons, S. (2004). Antibacterial and resistance modifying activity of Rosmarinus officinalis. Phytochemistry, 65(24), 3249-3254.
• Antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of rosemary extracts were assessed.  From:  Ramírez, P., García-Risco, M. R., Santoyo, S., Señoráns, F. J., Ibáñez, E., & Reglero, G. (2006). Isolation of functional ingredients from rosemary by preparative-supercritical fluid chromatography (Prep-SFC). Journal of pharmaceutical and biomedical analysis, 41(5), 1606-1613.
• Antimicrobial and vermicidal actions of R. officinalis were demonstrated.  From:  Soliman, F. M., El‐Kashoury, E. A., Fathy, M. M., & Gonaid, M. H. (1994). Analysis and biological activity of the essential oil of Rosmarinus officinalis L. from Egypt. Flavour and Fragrance Journal, 9(1), 29-33.
• Rosemary showed activity against oral bacteria in vitro.  From:  Silva, M. D. S. A., Silva, M. A. R., Higino, J. S., Pereira, M. S. V., & Carvalho, A. D. A. (2008). In vitro antimicrobial activity and anti-adherence of Rosmarinus officinalis Linn. against oral planktonic bacteria. Revista Brasileira de Farmacognosia, 18(2), 236-240.
• Rose, geranium, lavender and rosemary oils were the most potent QS inhibitors, destabilize bacterial communities studied.  From:  Szabó, M. Á., Varga, G. Z., Hohmann, J., Schelz, Z., Szegedi, E., Amaral, L., & Molnár, J. (2010). Inhibition of quorum‐sensing signals by essential oils. Phytotherapy research, 24(5), 782-786.
• Antioxidant, antibacterial, and antifungal activity was demonstrated from rosemary extracts.  From:  Genena, A. K., Hense, H., Smânia Junior, A., & Souza, S. M. D. (2008). Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis): a study of the composition, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of extracts obtained with supercritical carbon dioxide. Food Science and Technology (Campinas), 28(2), 463-469.

• Thirty essential oils were tested against pathogenic plant bacteria. Ceylon cinnamon (leaf and bark), oregano, clove bud, palmarosa, basil, peppermint, rosemary, blue gum, camphor, lemongrass, aniseed, ylang ylang, silver fir, lemon, dwarf mountain pine, bay laurel, scots pine, black cumin, Indian frankincense, bergamot orange, common juniper, bitter orange, and neem showed varying degrees of reaction.  From: Popović, T., Milićević, Z., Oro, V., Kostić, I., Radović, V., Jelušić, A., & Krnjajić, S. (2018). A preliminary study of antibacterial activity of thirty essential oils against several important plant pathogenic bacteria. Pesticidi i fitomedicina, 33(3-4), 185-195.

• Lemongrass, palmarosa, cinnamon, and rosemary essential oils showed antimicrobial activity against antibiotic resistant organisms. From: Narayanasamy, K., Elangovan, E., Keerthi, D., Jagadeeswari, S., Krithiga, B., Padmanabhan, V., & Periyasamy, S. (2019). Antimicrobial activity of selected essential oils against antibiotic resistant organisms. Asian Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, 5(3), 503-512.

• The following essential oils were tested and showed varying degrees of antimicrobial, antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral activities: Anethum graveolens, Foeniculum vulgare, Mentha piperita, Mentha spicata, Lavandula officinalis, Ocimum basilicum, Origanum onites, O. vulgare, O. munitiflorum, O. majorana, Rosmarinus officinalis, Salvia officinalis, and Satureja cuneifolia. From: Orhan, İlkay Erdoğan, et al. “Antimicrobial and antiviral effects of essential oils from selected Umbelliferae and Labiatae plants and individual essential oil components.” Turkish Journal of Biology 36.3 (2012): 239-246.

• Blends with Cinnamomum zeylanicum, Daucus carota, Eucalyptus globulus, Rosmarinus officinalis, Syzygium aromaticum, and Origanum vulgare showed in vitro antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral activities against antibiotic resistant pathogens, candida strains, and both the H1N1 and HSV1 viruses. From: Brochot, A., Guilbot, A., Haddioui, L., & Roques, C. (2017). Antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral effects of three essential oil blends. MicrobiologyOpen, 6(4), e00459.

• A blend of cinnamon bark, clove bud, sweet orange, eucalyptus, and rosemary essential oils reduced flu virus activity in vitro. From: Wu, S., Patel, K. B., Booth, L. J., Metcalf, J. P., Lin, H. K., & Wu, W. (2010). Protective essential oil attenuates influenza virus infection: an in vitro study in MDCK cells. BMC complementary and alternative medicine, 10(1), 69.

ANTIOXIDANT

• Origanum vulgare, Melissa officinalis, Rosmarinus officinalis, Ocimum basilicum, Salvia officinalis, and Hyssopus officinalis were test and O. vulgare extracts exhibited the highest antioxidant capacity, and the highest rosmarinic acid and polyphenolic contents. L. monocytogenes, S. aureus and C. albicans were pathogens affected by all six extracts.  From:  Benedec, D., Hanganu, D., Oniga, I., Tiperciuc, B., Olah, N. K., Raita, O., … & Vlase, L. (2015). Assessment of rosmarinic acid content in six Lamiaceae species extracts and their antioxidant and antimicrobial potential. Pak. J. Pharm. Sci, 28(6), 2297-2303.
• Sage, oregano and rosemary protected against hydrogen peroxide DNA damage in the mouse tail, and only sage protected against cytotoxicity.  From:  Aherne, S. A., Kerry, J. P., & O’Brien, N. M. (2007). Effects of plant extracts on antioxidant status and oxidant-induced stress in Caco-2 cells. British Journal of Nutrition, 97(02), 321-328.
• Of oils tested: rosemary, cumin, anise, thyme, and sweetgum essential oils showed the strongest antioxidant radical scavenging activity.  From:  Topal, U., Sasaki, M., Goto, M., & Otles, S. (2008). Chemical compositions and antioxidant properties of essential oils from nine species of Turkish plants obtained by supercritical carbon dioxide extraction and steam distillation. International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition, 59(7-8), 619-634.
• Antioxidant activity of a variety of R. officinalis was determined.  From:  Yesil-Celiktas, O., Nartop, P., Gurel, A., Bedir, E., & Vardar-Sukan, F. (2007). Determination of phenolic content and antioxidant activity of extracts obtained from Rosmarinus officinalis’ calli. Journal of plant physiology, 164(11), 1536-1542.
• A rosemary supplement reduced oxidative stress in the organs of old rats.  From:  Posadas, S. J., Caz, V., Largo, C., De la Gandara, B., Matallanas, B., Reglero, G., & De Miguel, E. (2009). Protective effect of supercritical fluid rosemary extract, Rosmarinus officinalis, on antioxidants of major organs of aged rats. Experimental gerontology, 44(6), 383-389.
• Antioxidant activity of sage and rosemary was associated with phenolic content.  From:  Papageorgiou, V., Gardeli, C., Mallouchos, A., Papaioannou, M., & Komaitis, M. (2008). Variation of the chemical profile and antioxidant behavior of Rosmarinus officinalis L. and Salvia fruticosa Miller grown in Greece. Journal of agricultural and food chemistry, 56(16), 7254-7264.
• Lavender and rosemary inhalation protects the body from oxidative stress by enhancing free radical scavenging activity and decrease the stress hormone, cortisol.  From:  Atsumi, T., & Tonosaki, K. (2007). Smelling lavender and rosemary increases free radical scavenging activity and decreases cortisol level in saliva. Psychiatry Research, 150(1), 89-96.
• Seasonal variation in key antioxidant constituents in rosemary exist.  From:  Luis, J. C., & Johnson, C. B. (2005). Seasonal variations of rosmarinic and carnosic acids in rosemary extracts. Analysis of their in vitro antiradical activity. Spanish Journal of Agricultural Research, 3(1), 106-112.
• 423 essential oils from 48 different botanical families were evaluated for their antioxidant activities as free radical scavenging agents.  Results identified oils of the botanical families Lamiaceae and Myrtaceae as the most effective antioxidants, with thymol, eugenol, and carvacrol being the major constituents. From:  Anthony, K. P., Deolu‐Sobogun, S. A., & Saleh, M. A. (2012). Comprehensive assessment of antioxidant activity of essential oils. Journal of food science, 77(8), C839-C843.
• Rosemary has been extensively studied as a natural antioxidants with sage and oregano gaining interest for their antioxidant potential.  From:  Yanishlieva, N. V., Marinova, E., & Pokorný, J. (2006). Natural antioxidants from herbs and spices. European Journal of lipid science and Technology, 108(9), 776-793.
• Antioxidant activities of carnosic acid and carnosol were demonstrated.  From:  Wijeratne, S. S., & Cuppett, S. L. (2007). Potential of rosemary (Rosemarinus officinalis L.) diterpenes in preventing lipid hydroperoxide-mediated oxidative stress in Caco-2 cells. Journal of agricultural and food chemistry, 55(4), 1193-1199.
• This study evaluated antioxidant activity of rosemary extract and the active constituents carnosol, carnosic acid, and rosmarinic acid.  From:  Frankel, E. N., Huang, S. W., Aeschbach, R., & Prior, E. (1996). Antioxidant activity of a rosemary extract and its constituents, carnosic acid, carnosol, and rosmarinic acid, in bulk oil and oil-in-water emulsion. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 44(1), 131-135.
• Carnosol and carnosic acid as found in rosemary extract, demonstrate strong antioxidant activities.  From:  Aruoma, O. I., Halliwell, B., Aeschbach, R., & Löligers, J. (1992). Antioxidant and pro-oxidant properties of active rosemary constituents: carnosol and carnosic acid. Xenobiotica, 22(2), 257-268.
• Rosemary extract was protective against oxidative damage to DNA.   From:  Slameňová, D., Kubošková, K., Horváthová, E., & Robichová, S. (2002). Rosemary-stimulated reduction of DNA strand breaks and FPG-sensitive sites in mammalian cells treated with H 2 O 2 or visible light-excited methylene blue. Cancer letters, 177(2), 145-153.
• This study assessed the types of antioxidant activity of rosemary constituents: rosmarinic acid, carnosic acid, carnasol, and rosmadial.  From:  Pérez-Fons, L., GarzÓn, M. T., & Micol, V. (2009). Relationship between the antioxidant capacity and effect of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) polyphenols on membrane phospholipid order. Journal of agricultural and food chemistry, 58(1), 161-171.
• Rosemary and sage were tested against against 13 bacterial strains 6 fungi, and 5 dermatomycetes and showed strong antimicrobial activity.  Rosemary also showed strong antioxidant activities.  From:  Bozin, B., Mimica-Dukic, N., Samojlik, I., & Jovin, E. (2007). Antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of rosemary and sage (Rosmarinus officinalis L. and Salvia officinalis L., Lamiaceae) essential oils. Journal of agricultural and food chemistry, 55(19), 7879-7885.
• Rosemary extract and its rosmarinic acid constituent showed antioxidant and antimicrobial activities.  From:  Moreno, S., Scheyer, T., Romano, C. S., & Vojnov, A. A. (2006). Antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of rosemary extracts linked to their polyphenol composition. Free radical research, 40(2), 223-231.
• Carnosic acid, carnosol and rosmarinic acid content in rosemary impacted radical-scavenging activity and the anti-inflammatory action was mainly based on the carnosic acid content.  From:  Kuhlmann, Annette, and Claudia Röhl. “Phenolic antioxidant compounds produced by in vitro. Cultures of Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis.) and their anti-inflammatory effect on lipopolysaccharide-activated microglia.” Pharmaceutical biology 44.6 (2006): 401-410.
• Rosemary essential oil and its constituents demonstrated antibacterial and antioxidant activities.  Myrcene was the constituent associated with antioxidant activity and alpha pinene was a strong antibacterial.  1,8-cineole was effective against the E. coli bacteria.  From:  Ojeda-Sana, A. M., van Baren, C. M., Elechosa, M. A., Juárez, M. A., & Moreno, S. (2013). New insights into antibacterial and antioxidant activities of rosemary essential oils and their main components. Food Control, 31(1), 189-195.
• Antioxidant, antibacterial, and antifungal activity was demonstrated from rosemary extracts.  From:  Genena, A. K., Hense, H., Smânia Junior, A., & Souza, S. M. D. (2008). Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis): a study of the composition, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of extracts obtained with supercritical carbon dioxide. Food Science and Technology (Campinas), 28(2), 463-469.
• Laurus nobilis (bay), salvia officinalis (sage), rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary), origanum vulgare (oregano), and coriandrum sativum (coriander) demonstrated antimicrobial, antioxidant activity, with oregano being the strongest.  From:  Baratta, M. T., Dorman, H. D., Deans, S. G., Biondi, D. M., & Ruberto, G. (1998). Chemical composition, antimicrobial and antioxidative activity of laurel, sage, rosemary, oregano and coriander essential oils. Journal of Essential Oil Research, 10(6), 618-627.
• Cananga odorata, Boswellia thurifera, Cymbopogon citratus, Marjorana hortensis, Ocimum basilicum, Rosmarinus officinalis, Cinnamomum zeylanicum and Citrus limon exhibited considerable inhibitory effect against all the bacteria and fungi tested, and also demonstrated antioxidant activity comparable with α-tocopherol and butylated hydroxytoluene.  From:  Baratta, M. T., Dorman, H. J., Deans, S. G., Figueiredo, A. C., Barroso, J. G., & Ruberto, G. (1998). Antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of some commercial essential oils. Flavour and fragrance journal, 13(4), 235-244.
• Antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of rosemary extracts were assessed.  From:  Ramírez, P., García-Risco, M. R., Santoyo, S., Señoráns, F. J., Ibáñez, E., & Reglero, G. (2006). Isolation of functional ingredients from rosemary by preparative-supercritical fluid chromatography (Prep-SFC). Journal of pharmaceutical and biomedical analysis, 41(5), 1606-1613.
• Rosemary showed chemo-preventive and antiproliferative action against cancer cells tested with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions. From:  Cheung, S., & Tai, J. (2007). Anti-proliferative and antioxidant properties of rosemary Rosmarinus officinalis. Oncology reports, 17(6), 1525-1532.
• Rosemary extract and oil demonstrated potent hepatoprotective and antimutagenic activities related to high phenolic content and antioxidant activity in rat liver.  From:  Fahim, F., Esmat, A., Fadel, H., & Hassan, K. (1999). Allied studies on the effect of Rosmarinus officinalis L. on experimental hepatotoxicity and mutagenesis. International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition, 50(6), 413-427.

​ANTI-CANCER / CHEMO-PREVENTIVE / RADIOPROTECTIVE

• This mega-analysis reviewed the anti-cancer activities of the constituent rosmarinic acid, found in certain species of the Lamiaceae family, such as Rosmarinus officinalis.  From:  Hossan, M. S., Rahman, S., Bashar, A. A., Jahan, R., Al-Nahain, A., & Rahmatullah, M. (2014). Rosmarinic acid: A review of its anticancer action. World J. Pharm. Pharm. Sci, 3(9), 57-70.
• Anti-cancer activity of rosemary was demonstrated in vitro.  From:  Amar, Y., Meddah, B., Bonacorsi, I., Costa, G., Pezzino, G., Saija, A., … & Meddah, A. T. (2017). Phytochemicals, antioxidant and antiproliferative properties of Rosmarinus officinalis L on U937 and CaCo-2 cells. Iranian journal of pharmaceutical research: IJPR, 16(1), 315.
• Freeze dried rosemary was cytotoxic against gastric cancer cells in vitro.  From:  Karimi, N., Rashedi, J., Poor, B. M., Arabi, S., Ghorbani, M., Tahmasebpour, N., & Asgharzadeh, M. (2017). Cytotoxic effect of rosemary extract on gastric adenocarcinoma (AGS) and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (KYSE30) cell lines. Gastroenterology and Hepatology from bed to bench, 10(2), 102.
• Rosemary extract and its constituents carnosal and ursolic acid applied topically reduced skin tumors of mice.  From:  Huang, M. T., Ho, C. T., Wang, Z. Y., Ferraro, T., Lou, Y. R., Stauber, K., … & Conney, A. H. (1994). Inhibition of skin tumorigenesis by rosemary and its constituents carnosol and ursolic acid. Cancer research, 54(3), 701-708.
• This summarized research on carnosal, as found in rosemary, sage, parsley, and oregano as an anti-cancer agent.  From:  Johnson, J. J. (2011). Carnosol: a promising anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory agent. Cancer letters, 305(1), 1-7.
• Carnosic acid and carnosol constituents in Rosmarinus officinalis targeted multiple signaling pathways involved in cell cycle modulation and apoptosis and may be useful in treating prostate cancer.  From:  Petiwala, S. M., Puthenveetil, A. G., & Johnson, J. (2013). Polyphenols from the Mediterranean herb rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) for prostate cancer. Frontiers in pharmacology, 4, 29.
• Both rosemary dried herb and extracts were chemo-preventive in rat liver.  From:  Debersac, P., Heydel, J. M., Amiot, M. J., Goudonnet, H., Artur, Y., Suschetet, M., & Siess, M. H. (2001). Induction of cytochrome P450 and/or detoxication enzymes by various extracts of rosemary: description of specific patterns. Food and Chemical Toxicology, 39(9), 907-918.
• Rosemary extract was protective in mouse liver and stomach against carcinogens.  From:  Singletary, K. W., & Rokusek, J. T. (1997). Tissue-specific enhancement of xenobiotic detoxification enzymes in mice by dietary rosemary extract. Plant foods for human nutrition, 50(1), 47-53.
• Rosemary was active against lung cancer cells in vitro.  From:  Moore, J., Megaly, M., MacNeil, A. J., Klentrou, P., & Tsiani, E. (2016). Rosemary extract reduces Akt/mTOR/p70S6K activation and inhibits proliferation and survival of A549 human lung cancer cells. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, 83, 725-732.
• Rosemary showed chemopreventive and antiproliferative action against cancer cells tested with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions. From:  Cheung, S., & Tai, J. (2007). Anti-proliferative and antioxidant properties of rosemary Rosmarinus officinalis. Oncology reports, 17(6), 1525-1532.
• Carnosic acid as found in rosemary (as well as sage) showed a chemoprotective effect against aflotoxins contaminating food. From:  Costa, S., Utan, A., Speroni, E., Cervellati, R., Piva, G., Prandini, A., & Guerra, M. C. (2007). Carnosic acid from rosemary extracts: a potential chemoprotective agent against aflatoxin B1. An in vitro study. Journal of applied toxicology, 27(2), 152-159.
• Carnosic acid showed inhibition of human myeloid leukemia cells.  From:  Steiner, M., Priel, I., Giat, J., Levy, J., Sharoni, Y., & Danilenko, M. (2001). Carnosic acid inhibits proliferation and augments differentiation of human leukemic cells induced by 1, 25-dihydroxyvitamin dsub3 and retinoic acid. Nutrition and cancer, 41(1-2), 135-144.
• Rosemary extract exhibited anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor action. Peng, C. H., Su, J. D., Chyau, C. C., Sung, T. Y., Ho, S. S., Peng, C. C., & Peng, R. Y. (2007). Supercritical fluid extracts of rosemary leaves exhibit potent anti-inflammation and anti-tumor effects. Bioscience, biotechnology, and biochemistry, 71(9), 2223-2232.
• Rosemary and its constituent carnosic acid were effective in treating mouse myeloid leukemia.  From:  Shabtay, A., Sharabani, H., Barvish, Z., Kafka, M., Amichay, D., Levy, J., … & Danilenko, M. (2008). Synergistic antileukemic activity of carnosic acid-rich rosemary extract and the 19-nor Gemini vitamin D analogue in a mouse model of systemic acute myeloid leukemia. Oncology, 75(3-4), 203-214.
• A vitamin D3 derivative combined with carnosic acid reduced myeloid leukemia in vitro. From:  Sharabani, H., Izumchenko, E., Wang, Q., Kreinin, R., Steiner, M., Barvish, Z., … & Studzinski, G. P. (2006). Cooperative antitumor effects of vitamin D3 derivatives and rosemary preparations in a mouse model of myeloid leukemia. International journal of cancer, 118(12), 3012-3021.
• Carnosic acid reduced human promyelocytic leukaemia cells in vitro.   From:  Wang, R., Li, H., Guo, G., Li, X., Yu, X., Li, H., … & Chen, X. (2008). Augmentation by carnosic acid of apoptosis in human leukaemia cells induced by arsenic trioxide via upregulation of the tumour suppressor PTEN. Journal of International Medical Research, 36(4), 682-690.
• In vitro, Hypericum mysorense, Hypericum hookerianum and Usnea complanta exhibited significant antiviral activity at nontoxic levels and Melia dubia, Cryptostegia grandiflora, and Rosmarinus officinalis showed activity at higher concentrations.  From:  Vijayan, P., Raghu, C., Ashok, G., Dhanaraj, S. A., & Suresh, B. (2004). Antiviral activity of medicinal plants of Nilgiris. Indian Journal of medical research, 120(1), 24.
• Carnosol, a component of rosemary, was cytotoxic against several acute lymphoblastic leukemia cells tested.  From:  Dörrie, J., Sapala, K., & Zunino, S. J. (2001). Carnosol-induced apoptosis and downregulation of Bcl-2 in B-lineage leukemia cells. Cancer letters, 170(1), 33-39.
• Carnosol in rosemary showed anti-inflammatory and chemo-preventive action in mice.  From:  Lo, A. H., Liang, Y. C., Lin-Shiau, S. Y., Ho, C. T., & Lin, J. K. (2002). Carnosol, an antioxidant in rosemary, suppresses inducible nitric oxide synthase through down-regulating nuclear factor-κB in mouse macrophages. Carcinogenesis, 23(6), 983-991.
• Rosemary extract and oil demonstrated potent hepatoprotective and antimutagenic activities related to high phenolic content and antioxidant activity in rat liver.  From:  Fahim, F., Esmat, A., Fadel, H., & Hassan, K. (1999). Allied studies on the effect of Rosmarinus officinalis L. on experimental hepatotoxicity and mutagenesis. International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition, 50(6), 413-427.
• Rosemary and its constituents carnasol and carnosic acid showed a chemoprotective effect in human liver and bronchial cells in vitro.  From:  Offord, E. A., Macé, K., Avanti, O., & Pfeifer, A. M. (1997). Mechanisms involved in the chemoprotective effects of rosemary extract studied in human liver and bronchial cells. Cancer Letters, 114(1-2), 275-281.
• Rosemary showed anti-tumor activity orally and topically in mice.  From:  Sancheti, G., & Goyal, P. K. (2006). Modulatory influence of Rosemarinus officinalis on DMBA-induced mouse skin tumorigenesis. Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention, 7(2), 331.
• The anti-inflammatory effect of rosmarinic acid may reduce certain cancers.  From:  Scheckel, K. A., Degner, S. C., & Romagnolo, D. F. (2008). Rosmarinic acid antagonizes activator protein-1–dependent activation of cyclooxygenase-2 expression in human cancer and nonmalignant cell lines. The Journal of nutrition, 138(11), 2098-2105.
• Rosemary had a radioprotective effect in mice exposed to radiation.  From:  Soyal, D., Jindal, A., Singh, I., & Goyal, P. K. (2007). Modulation of radiation-induced biochemical alterations in mice by rosemary (Rosemarinus officinalis) extract. Phytomedicine, 14(10), 701-705

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY

• A review of research on the anti-inflammatory activity of rosemary was discussed.  From:  Borges, R. S., Ortiz, B. L. S., Pereira, A. C. M., Keita, H., & Carvalho, J. C. T. (2018). Rosmarinus officinalis essential oil: A review of its phytochemistry, anti-inflammatory activity, and mechanisms of action involved. Journal of ethnopharmacology.
• Phytochemicals derived from spices can reduce inflammatory diseases.  These include:  turmeric (curcumin), red pepper (capsaicin), cloves (eugenol), ginger (gingerol), cumin, anise (anethol), fennel (anethol), basil (ursolic acid), rosemary (ursolic acid), garlic (diallyl sulfide, S-allylmercaptocysteine, and ajoene), and pomegranate (ellagic acid). From:  Aggarwal, B. B., & Shishodia, S. (2004). Suppression of the Nuclear Factor‐κB Activation Pathway by Spice‐Derived Phytochemicals: Reasoning for Seasoning. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1030(1), 434-441.
• Rosemary extract, its waste product, as well as its constituents of tritepenes, ursolic acid, oleanolic acid, and micromeric acid all showed anti-inflammatory activity.  From:  Altinier, G., Sosa, S., Aquino, R. P., Mencherini, T., Loggia, R. D., & Tubaro, A. (2007). Characterization of topical antiinflammatory compounds in Rosmarinus officinalis L. Journal of agricultural and food chemistry, 55(5), 1718-1723.
• Rosemary essential oil had an anti-inflammatory and peripheral antinociceptive activity on mice.  From:  Takaki, I., Bersani-Amado, L. E., Vendruscolo, A., Sartoretto, S. M., Diniz, S. P., Bersani-Amado, C. A., & Cuman, R. K. N. (2008). Anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects of Rosmarinus officinalis L. essential oil in experimental animal models. Journal of Medicinal food, 11(4), 741-746.
• This article discusses the anti-inflammatory actions of carnosic acid and carnosol as found in rosemary and sage.  From:  Poeckel, D., Greiner, C., Verhoff, M., Rau, O., Tausch, L., Hörnig, C., … & Werz, O. (2008). Carnosic acid and carnosol potently inhibit human 5-lipoxygenase and suppress pro-inflammatory responses of stimulated human polymorphonuclear leukocytes. Biochemical pharmacology, 76(1), 91-97.
• Rosemary essential oil showed anti-inflammatory action in vitro via leukocyte migration.  From;  de Melo, G. A. N., Grespan, R., Fonseca, J. P., Farinha, T. O., Silva, E. L., Romero, A. L., … & Cuman, R. K. N. (2011). Rosmarinus officinalis L. essential oil inhibits in vivo and in vitro leukocyte migration. Journal of medicinal food, 14(9), 944-946.
• Carnosic acid, carnosol and rosmarinic acid content in rosemary impacted radical-scavenging activity and the anti-inflammatory action was mainly based on the carnosic acid content.  From:  Kuhlmann, Annette, and Claudia Röhl. “Phenolic antioxidant compounds produced by in vitro. Cultures of Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis.) and their anti-inflammatory effect on lipopolysaccharide-activated microglia.” Pharmaceutical biology 44.6 (2006): 401-410.
• Rosmanol, a phenol in rosemary, showed anti-inflammatory activity.  From:  Lai, C. S., Lee, J. H., Ho, C. T., Liu, C. B., Wang, J. M., Wang, Y. J., & Pan, M. H. (2009). Rosmanol potently inhibits lipopolysaccharide-induced iNOS and COX-2 expression through downregulating MAPK, NF-κB, STAT3 and C/EBP signaling pathways. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 57(22), 10990-10998.
• Rosemary extract exhibited anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor action. Peng, C. H., Su, J. D., Chyau, C. C., Sung, T. Y., Ho, S. S., Peng, C. C., & Peng, R. Y. (2007). Supercritical fluid extracts of rosemary leaves exhibit potent anti-inflammation and anti-tumor effects. Bioscience, biotechnology, and biochemistry, 71(9), 2223-2232.
• Carnosol in rosemary showed anti-inflammatory and chemopreventive action in mice.  From:  Lo, A. H., Liang, Y. C., Lin-Shiau, S. Y., Ho, C. T., & Lin, J. K. (2002). Carnosol, an antioxidant in rosemary, suppresses inducible nitric oxide synthase through down-regulating nuclear factor-κB in mouse macrophages. Carcinogenesis, 23(6), 983-991.
• This article discussed the effect of 1,8- cineole on mast cells related to rat paw inflammation.  From:  Santos, F. A., & Rao, V. S. (1997). Mast cell involvement in the rat paw oedema response to 1, 8-cineole, the main constituent of eucalyptus and rosemary oils. European journal of pharmacology, 331(2), 253-258.
• A rosemary extraction reduced paw inflammation in vivo.  From:  Borges, R. S., Lima, E. S., Keita, H., Ferreira, I. M., Fernandes, C. P., Cruz, R. A. S., … & Ferreira, J. V. (2018). Anti-inflammatory and antialgic actions of a nanoemulsion of Rosmarinus officinalis L. essential oil and a molecular docking study of its major chemical constituents. Inflammopharmacology, 26(1), 183-195.
• Rosemary demonstrated strong antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activity.  From:  González-Trujano, M. E., Peña, E. I., Martínez, A. L., Moreno, J., Guevara-Fefer, P., Deciga-Campos, M., & López-Muñoz, F. J. (2007). Evaluation of the antinociceptive effect of Rosmarinus officinalis L. using three different experimental models in rodents. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 111(3), 476-482.
• Rosemary extracts were antimicrobial against oral microbes and showed anti-inflammatory action in vitro.  From:  de Oliveira, J. R., de Jesus, D., Figueira, L. W., de Oliveira, F. E., Pacheco Soares, C., Camargo, S. E. A., … & de Oliveira, L. D. (2017). Biological activities of Rosmarinus officinalis L.(rosemary) extract as analyzed in microorganisms and cells. Experimental Biology and Medicine, 242(6), 625-634.
• Rosemary showed chemopreventive and antiproliferative action against cancer cells tested with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions. From:  Cheung, S., & Tai, J. (2007). Anti-proliferative and antioxidant properties of rosemary Rosmarinus officinalis. Oncology reports, 17(6), 1525-1532.

• Herbs with an anti-inflammatory effect in clinical studies is reviewed. Herbs include Curcuma longa, Zingiber officinale, Rosmarinus officinalis, Borago officinalis, evening primrose (Oenethera ssp), and Devil’s claw (Proboscidea parviflora). From: Ghasemian, M., Owlia, S., & Owlia, M. B. (2016). Review of anti-inflammatory herbal medicines. Advances in pharmacological sciences, 2016.

PESTICIDAL / INSECTICIDAL / REPELLENT / LARVICIDAL

• Against three mosquito species, Juniperus macropoda (Juniper) and Pimpinella anisum (Anise) were highly effective as both larvicidal and ovicidal. Zingiber officinale (ginger) and Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) were found to be ovicidal and repellent. Cinnamomum zeylanicum (cinnamon) resulted into highest repellent values.  From:  Prajapati, V., Tripathi, A. K., Aggarwal, K. K., & Khanuja, S. P. S. (2005). Insecticidal, repellent and oviposition-deterrent activity of selected essential oils against Anopheles stephensi, Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus. Bioresource Technology, 96(16), 1749-1757.
• ​Fumigant vapours from anise (Pimpinella anisum), cumin (Cuminum cyminum), eucalyptus (Eucalyptus camaldulensis), oregano (Origanum syriacum) and rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) were tested against the packaged food pests: Tribolium confusum, and Ephestia kuehniella. Anise and cumin resulted in 100% mortality of the eggs.  Oregano achieved 77% mortality in T. confusum and 89% in E. kuehniella. Eucalyptus and rosemary achieved up to 45 and 65% mortality, respectively.  From:  Tunc, I., Berger, B. M., Erler, F., & Dağlı, F. (2000). Ovicidal activity of essential oils from five plants against two stored-product insects. Journal of Stored Products Research, 36(2), 161-168.
• Against head lice, eucalyptus, marjoram, pennyroyal, and rosemary oils beat  δ-phenothrin and pyrethrum and activity of cade, cardamone ceylon, clove bud, myrtle, rosewood, and sage oils were comparable with the test insecticides.  From:  Yang, Y. C., Lee, H. S., Clark, J. M., & Ahn, Y. J. (2004). Insecticidal activity of plant essential oils against Pediculus humanus capitis (Anoplura: Pediculidae). Journal of Medical Entomology, 41(4), 699-704.
• Rosemary and sweet marjoram where pesticidal and repellent against spider mites.  From:  Momen, F. M., Amer, S. A. A., & Refaat, A. M. (2001). Repellent and oviposition-deterring activity of rosemary and sweet marjoram on the spider mites Tetranychus urticae and Eutetranychus orientalis (Acari: Tetranychidae). Acta Phytopathologica et Entomologica Hungarica, 36(1-2), 155-164.
• Lavender, rosemary, and eucalyptus essential oils and their oxygenated monoterpenoids presented insecticidal activity against A. obtectus.  From:  Papachristos, D. P., Karamanoli, K. I., Stamopoulos, D. C., & Menkissoglu‐Spiroudi, U. (2004). The relationship between the chemical composition of three essential oils and their insecticidal activity against Acanthoscelides obtectus (Say). Pest management science, 60(5), 514-520.
• Eucalyptus, marjoram, pennyroyal, and rosemary oils showed activity against human head lice.  From:  Yang, Y. C., Lee, H. S., Clark, J. M., & Ahn, Y. J. (2004). Insecticidal activity of plant essential oils against Pediculus humanus capitis (Anoplura: Pediculidae). Journal of medical entomology, 41(4), 699-704.
• Pulegone, thymol, eugenol, trans-anithole, rosemary oil, citronellal, and cymene showed high larvicidal, oviposition deterrent, and/or repellent activities against the denge fever mosquito.  From:  Waliwitiya, R., Kennedy, C. J., & Lowenberger, C. A. (2009). Larvicidal and oviposition‐altering activity of monoterpenoids, trans‐anithole and rosemary oil to the yellow fever mosquito Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae). Pest management science, 65(3), 241-248.
• Apium graveolens (celery), Citrus sinensis (orange), Eucalyptus globulus (eucalyptus), Juniperus oxycedrus (juniper), Laurus nobilis (bay), Lavandula hybrida (lavender), Mentha microphylla (mint), Mentha viridis (spearmint), Ocimum basilicum (basil), Origanum vulgare (oregano), Pistacia terebinthus (turpentine tree), Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary), and Thuja orientalis (thuja) were effective insect repellents against Acanthoscelides obtectus.  From:  Papachristos, D. P., & Stamopoulos, D. C. (2002). Repellent, toxic and reproduction inhibitory effects of essential oil vapours on Acanthoscelides obtectus (Say)(Coleoptera: Bruchidae). Journal of Stored Products Research, 38(2), 117-128.
• Against the yellow fever mosquito, pulegone, thymol, eugenol, trans-anithole, rosemary oil and citronellal showed high larvicidal activity. Eugenol, citronellal, thymol, pulegone, rosemary oil and cymene showed oviposition deterrent and/or repellent activities.  From:  Waliwitiya, R., Kennedy, C. J., & Lowenberger, C. A. (2009). Larvicidal and oviposition‐altering activity of monoterpenoids, trans‐anithole and rosemary oil to the yellow fever mosquito Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae). Pest management science, 65(3), 241-248.
• Lavendula stoechas (lavender), Helichrysum italicum and Laurus nobilis (bay) oils reduced attractivity of yellow fever mosquitoes with promising results from Calamintha nepeta (calamint), and Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary).  From:  Drapeau, J., Fröhler, C., Touraud, D., Kröckel, U., Geier, M., Rose, A., & Kunz, W. (2009). Repellent studies with Aedes aegypti mosquitoes and human olfactory tests on 19 essential oils from Corsica, France. Flavour and Fragrance Journal, 24(4), 160-169.
• Essential oils from Cymbopogan citrates (lemongrass), Cinnamomum zeylanicum (cinnamon), Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary), and Zingiber officinale (ginger) showed promising larvicidal and repellent agent against the mosquitos: C. tritaeniorhynchus and A. subpictus.  From:  Govindarajan, M. (2011). Larvicidal and repellent properties of some essential oils against Culex tritaeniorhynchus Giles and Anopheles subpictus Grassi (Diptera: Culicidae). Asian Pacific journal of tropical medicine, 4(2), 106-111.
• Achillea millefolium, Lavandula angustifolia, Helichrysum italicum, Foeniculum vulgare, Myrtus communis, and Rosmarinus officinalis showed insecticidal activity against a mosquito species. ​From: Conti, B., Canale, A., Bertoli, A., Gozzini, F., & Pistelli, L. (2010). Essential oil composition and larvicidal activity of six Mediterranean aromatic plants against the mosquito Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae). Parasitology research, 107(6), 1455-1461.
• Essential oils of Eucalyptus globulus, Lavender officinalis, Rosemarinus officinalis, and Thymus vulgaris showed repellent activities against the mosquito: Culex pipiens pallens.  Thyme was the strongest and constituents that were effective included alpha-terpinene, thymol, p-cymene, carvacrol, and linalool.  From:  Choi, W. S., Park, B. S., Ku, S. K., & Lee, S. E. (2002). Repellent activities of essential oils and monoterpenes against Culex pipiens pallens. Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association, 18(4), 348-351.
• The following plant oils showed repellent activity against the mosquito Aedes aegypti:  Acantholippia seriphioides, Achyrocline satureioides, Aloysia citriodora (lemon verbena), Anemia tomentosa, Baccharis spartioides, Chenopodium ambrosioides, Eucalyptus saligna, Hyptis mutabilis, Minthostachys mollis (mint), Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary), Tagetes minuta and Tagetes pusilla (marigold). From:  Gillij, Y. G., Gleiser, R. M., & Zygadlo, J. A. (2008). Mosquito repellent activity of essential oils of aromatic plants growing in Argentina. Bioresource technology, 99(7), 2507-2515.
• Chemical composition variation of rosemary affects its insecticidal strength.  From:  Isman, M. B., Wilson, J. A., & Bradbury, R. (2008). Insecticidal Activities of Commercial Rosemary Oils (Rosmarinus officinalis.) Against Larvae of Pseudaletia unipuncta. and Trichoplusia ni. in Relation to Their Chemical Compositions. Pharmaceutical Biology, 46(1-2), 82-87.
• A blend of thyme and rosemary was larvicidal against the gypsy moth.  From:  Moretti, M. D., Sanna-Passino, G., Demontis, S., & Bazzoni, E. (2002). Essential oil formulations useful as a new tool for insect pest control. AAPs PharmSciTech, 3(2), 64-74.

PRESERVATIVE

• A review of research was provided on the antibacterial and antioxidant actions of rosemary and cardamom, especially related to food preservation.  From:  Singh, R., & Jaglan, R. K. V. (2018). Antibacterial and antioxidant activity of green cardamom and rosemary extract in food products: A brief review.
• Rosemary extract showed antioxidant and antimicrobial activity to use to reduce food spoilage. From:  Klancnik, A., Guzej, B., Kolar, M. H., Abramovic, H., & Mozina, S. S. (2009). In Vitro Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activity of Commercial Rosemary Extract Formulations. Journal of Food Protection, 72(8), 1744.
• Essential oils of cilantro, coriander, cinnamon, oregano, rosemary, sage, clove, thyme, lemongrass, turmeric, mint, basil, and constituents of linalool, cinnamaldehyde, carvacrol, thymol, terpinene, cymene, alpha/beta pinene, bornyl acetate, camphor, 1,8-cineole, alpha terpeneol, geraniol, perrilaldehyde, and eugenol have demonstrated food preserving potential.  From:  Burt, S. (2004). Essential oils: their antibacterial properties and potential applications in foods—a review. International journal of food microbiology, 94(3), 223-253.
• Rosemary and oregano extracts had stronger antioxidant properties than common food additives tested.  From:  Martínez-Tomé, M., Jiménez, A. M., Ruggieri, S., Frega, N., Strabbioli, R., & Murcia, M. A. (2001). Antioxidant properties of Mediterranean spices compared with common food additives. Journal of food protection, 64(9), 1412-1419.
• Aflotoxin production of tested fungi was prohibited by rosemary and Ajowan extracts and could be used to preserve food and prevent toxigenic fungal infection.  Rasooli, I., Fakoor, M. H., Yadegarinia, D., Gachkar, L., Allameh, A., & Rezaei, M. B. (2008). Antimycotoxigenic characteristics of Rosmarinus officinalis and Trachyspermum copticum L. essential oils. International journal of food microbiology, 122(1), 135-139.
• Rosemary extract was effective in inhibiting soybean oil oxidation.  From:  Valenzuela, A., Sanhueza, J., Alonso, P., Corbari, A., & Nieto, S. (2004). Inhibitory action of conventional food-grade natural antioxidants and of natural antioxidants of new development on the thermal-induced oxidation of cholesterol. International journal of food sciences and nutrition, 55(2), 155.
• Antioxidant and antimicrobial actions of rosemary and its constituents are reviewed related to food preservation.  From:  Nieto, G., Ros, G., & Castillo, J. (2018). Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Properties of Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis, L.): A Review. Medicines, 5(3), 98.
• The following essential oils were tested against a variety of microbes in a variety of environments:  cinnamon (Cinnamon zeylanicum), clove (Syzygium aromaticum), basil (Ocimum basillicum), rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), dill (Anethum graveolens), and ginger (Zingiber officinalis).   From:  Lopez, P., Sanchez, C., Batlle, R., & Nerin, C. (2005). Solid-and vapor-phase antimicrobial activities of six essential oils: susceptibility of selected foodborne bacterial and fungal strains. Journal of agricultural and food chemistry, 53(17), 6939-6946.
• Basil, lemon balm, marjoram, oregano, rosemary, sage, and thyme showed varying degrees of antimicrobial activity on foodborne pathogens.  From:  Gutierrez, J., Rodriguez, G., Barry-Ryan, C., & Bourke, P. (2008). Efficacy of plant essential oils against foodborne pathogens and spoilage bacteria associated with ready-to-eat vegetables: antimicrobial and sensory screening. Journal of Food Protection®, 71(9), 1846-1854.
• Salad preservation was lengthened with the essential oils of thyme verbena, oregano, ajowan, tea tree, clove, sage, and rosemary.  From:  Molinos, A. C., Abriouel, H., López, R. L., Omar, N. B., Valdivia, E., & Gálvez, A. (2009). Enhanced bactericidal activity of enterocin AS-48 in combination with essential oils, natural bioactive compounds and chemical preservatives against Listeria monocytogenes in ready-to-eat salad. Food and Chemical Toxicology, 47(9), 2216-2223.
• Basil, clove, garlic, horseradish, marjoram, oregano, rosemary, and thyme exhibited antibacterial activities on a foodborne pathogen, Vibrio parahaemolyticus.  From:  Yano, Y., Satomi, M., & Oikawa, H. (2006). Antimicrobial effect of spices and herbs on Vibrio parahaemolyticus. International journal of food microbiology, 111(1), 6-11.
• Oregano (Origanum syriacum), thyme (Thymbra spicata), lavender (Lavandula stoechas), rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), and laurel (Laurus nobilis), inhibited growth of tomatoe fungus.  From:  Soylu, E. M., Soylu, S., & Kurt, S. (2006). Antimicrobial activities of the essential oils of various plants against tomato late blight disease agent Phytophthora infestans. Mycopathologia, 161(2), 119-128.

SKIN / WOUND HEALING

• A double blind clinical study of 25 women using a cream containing rosemary and gotu kola extracts for 4 weeks demonstrated improved skin firmness. From:  Sommerfeld, B. (2007). Randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind, split-face study on the clinical efficacy of Tricutan® on skin firmness. Phytomedicine, 14(11), 711-715.
• A skin product containing: Annona squamosa, Zanthoxylum clava-herculis, and Rosmarinus officinalis was assessed in this study of 44 women.  Participants reported improvement in skin hydration, firmness, and elasticity after daily use for 8 weeks.  From: Yimam, M., Lee, Y. C., Jiao, P., Hong, M., Brownell, L., & Jia, Q. (2018). A Randomized, Active Comparator-controlled Clinical Trial of a Topical Botanical Cream for Skin Hydration, Elasticity, Firmness, and Cellulite. The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology, 11(8), 51.
• Poplar bud absolute, rosemary extract, benzoin resinoid and turmeric oleoresin inhibited human leukocyte elastase for improved skin healing.  From:  Baylac, S., & Racine, P. (2004). Inhibition of human leukocyte elastase by natural fragrant extracts of aromatic plants. International Journal of Aromatherapy, 14(4), 179-182.
• Rosemary water-soluble extract inhibited UV cutaneous photodamage.  From:  Martin, R., Pierrard, C., Lejeune, F., Hilaire, P., Breton, L., & Bernerd, F. (2008). Photoprotective effect of a water-soluble extract of Rosmarinus officinalis L. against UV-induced matrix metalloproteinase-1 in human dermal fibroblasts and reconstructed skin. European Journal of Dermatology, 18(2), 128-135.
• A significant positive difference in diabetic wound healing occurred in diabetic mice treated with R. officinalis.  From:  Abu-Al-Basal, M. A. (2010). Healing potential of Rosmarinus officinalis L. on full-thickness excision cutaneous wounds in alloxan-induced-diabetic BALB/c mice. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 131(2), 443-450.
• Rosemary extract minimized free radical-induced skin damage. From:  Calabrese, V., Scapagnini, G., Catalano, C., Bates, T. E., Dinotta, F., Micali, G., & Giuffrida, S. A. (2000). Induction of heat shock protein synthesis in human skin fibroblasts in response to oxidative stress: regulation by a natural antioxidant from rosemary extract. International journal of tissue reactions, 23(2), 51-58.
• Rosemary essential oil was effective against acne skin bacteria.  From:  Fu, Y., Zu, Y., Chen, L., Efferth, T., Liang, H., Liu, Z., & Liu, W. (2007). Investigation of antibacterial activity of rosemary essential oil against Propionibacterium acnes with atomic force microscopy. Planta medica, 73(12), 1275-1280.
• Creams with rosemary and marigold reduced irritation contact dermatitis.  From:  Fuchs, S. M., Schliemann-Willers, S., Fischer, T. W., & Elsner, P. (2005). Protective effects of different marigold (Calendula officinalis L.) and rosemary cream preparations against sodium-lauryl-sulfate-induced irritant contact dermatitis. Skin pharmacology and physiology, 18(4), 195-200.
• Against skin pathogens, U. barbata (beard lichen) extract and usnic acid were the most active; rosemary, sage, frankincense, and devil’s claw extracts also proved to be effective against a variety of bacteria.  From:  Weckesser, S., Engel, K., Simon-Haarhaus, B., Wittmer, A., Pelz, K., & Schempp, C. M. (2007). Screening of plant extracts for antimicrobial activity against bacteria and yeasts with dermatological relevance. Phytomedicine, 14(7), 508-516.
• Antimicrobial action of litsea, rosemary, and lemon were demonstrated against tested skin microbes.  From: Ogbechie, A., Abioye, A. O., Shen, J., & Laird, K. (2017). Antimicrobial activity of Litsea cubeba, Rosmarinus officinalis and Citrus lemon essential oils against five skin-infection related pathogens. Phytochemical Society of Europe.
• The following plant extracts were effective to treat skin infection from S. aureus bacteria:  Lonicera alpigena (alpine honeysuckle), Castanea sativa (sweet chestnut), Juglans regia (walnut), Ballota nigra (black horehound), Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary), Leopoldia comosa (hyacinth), Malva sylvestris (mallow), Cyclamen hederifolium (cyclamen), Rosa canina (dog rose), and Rubus ulmifolius (blackberry).  From:  Quave, C. L., Plano, L. R., Pantuso, T., & Bennett, B. C. (2008). Effects of extracts from Italian medicinal plants on planktonic growth, biofilm formation and adherence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 118(3), 418-428.

SKIN PROTECTIVE / SUNSCREEN

• Vitamin C, vitamin E, and carnosic acid showed photoprotective human skin potential.  From: Offord, E. A., Gautier, J. C., Avanti, O., Scaletta, C., Runge, F., Krämer, K., & Applegate, L. A. (2002). Photoprotective potential of lycopene, β-carotene, vitamin E, vitamin C and carnosic acid in UVA-irradiated human skin fibroblasts. Free Radical Biology and Medicine, 32(12), 1293-1303.

ACNE

• Rosemary essential oil was effective against acne skin bacteria.  From:  Fu, Y., Zu, Y., Chen, L., Efferth, T., Liang, H., Liu, Z., & Liu, W. (2007). Investigation of antibacterial activity of rosemary essential oil against Propionibacterium acnes with atomic force microscopy. Planta medica, 73(12), 1275-1280.

MOUTH COLD SORES

• Phenolic constituents of rosemary showed antiviral activity against Herpes 1.  From:  Mancini, D. A. P., Torres, R. P., Pinto, J. R., & Mancini-Filho, J. (2009). Inhibition of DNA virus: Herpes-1 (HSV-1) in cellular culture replication, through an antioxidant treatment extracted from rosemary spice. Brazilian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 45(1), 127-133.
• Extracts from lemon balm, peppermint, prunella, rosemary, sage, and thyme showed action against Herpes types 1 and 2.  From:  Nolkemper, S., Reichling, J., Stintzing, F. C., Carle, R., & Schnitzler, P. (2006). Antiviral effect of aqueous extracts from species of the Lamiaceae family against Herpes simplex virus type 1 and type 2 in vitro. Planta medica, 72(15), 1378-1382.
• Prunella, peppermint, rosemary and thyme extracts provided antiviral activity against Herpes 1.  From:  Reichling, J., Nolkemper, S., Stintzing, F. C., & Schnitzler, P. (2008). Impact of ethanolic lamiaceae extracts on herpesvirus infectivity in cell culture. Forschende Komplementärmedizin/Research in Complementary Medicine, 15(6), 313-320.

STIMULANT

• Rosemary inhalation had a stimulatory effect via brain wave activity, autonomic nervous system activity, and mood.  From: Sayorwan, W., Ruangrungsi, N., Piriyapunyporn, T., Hongratanaworakit, T., Kotchabhakdi, N., & Siripornpanich, V. (2013). Effects of inhaled rosemary oil on subjective feelings and activities of the nervous system. Scientia pharmaceutica, 81(2), 531.
• In a study of 35 healthy volunteers, transdermal delivery of rosemary oil caused a significant increase in systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure and breathing rate, and subjects felt more attentive, and cheerful, validating a stimulating and anti-depressive, and anxiolytic effect in humans. From:  Hongratanaworakit, T. (2009). Simultaneous aromatherapy massage with rosemary oil on humans. Scientia Pharmaceutica, 77(2), 375-388.
• Lavender relaxed test takers, reduced test anxiety, and improved testing ability.  Rosemary stimulated test takers, reduced test anxiety, and made them faster but not more accurate when taking the test.  From:  Diego, M. A., Jones, N. A., Field, T., Hernandez-Reif, M., Schanberg, S., Kuhn, C., … & Galamaga, R. (1998). Aromatherapy positively affects mood, EEG patterns of alertness and math computations. International Journal of Neuroscience, 96(3-4), 217-224.
• Inhalation of rosemary had a stimulant effect, improved mood, and brain clarity in participants.  From:  Sayorwan, W., Ruangrungsi, N., Piriyapunyporn, T., Hongratanaworakit, T., Kotchabhakdi, N., & Siripornpanich, V. (2012). Effects of inhaled rosemary oil on subjective feelings and activities of the nervous system. Scientia pharmaceutica, 81(2), 531-542.
• Rosemary and lavender scents lowered fatigue while lavender also lowered tension (anxiety / confusion) in human participants.  From:  Burnett, K. M., Solterbeck, L. A., & Strapp, C. M. (2004). Scent and mood state following an anxiety-provoking task. Psychological reports, 95(2), 707-722.

ANTIDEPRESSIVE

• In a study of 14 stroke patients, a footbath and massage with juniper, lavender, rosemary, patchouli, and orange reduced stress, improved mood, increased body temperature, and improved sleeping satisfaction compared to the placebo.  From:  Lee, J. H., Seo, E. K., Shim, J. S., & Chung, S. P. (2017). The effects of aroma massage and foot bath on psychophysiological response in stroke patients. Journal of physical therapy science, 29(8), 1292-1296.
• In this study, 68 students were either given 500 mg of rosemary twice a day or a placebo for a month. The rosemary group had improved memory performance, reduced anxiety, depression, and better sleep.  From:  Nematolahi, P., Mehrabani, M., Karami-Mohajeri, S., & Dabaghzadeh, F. (2018). Effects of Rosmarinus officinalis L. on memory performance, anxiety, depression, and sleep quality in university students: A randomized clinical trial. Complementary therapies in clinical practice, 30, 24-28.
• Rosemary extract had an antidepressive action in mice.  From:  Machado, D. G., Bettio, L. E., Cunha, M. P., Capra, J. C., Dalmarco, J. B., Pizzolatti, M. G., & Rodrigues, A. L. S. (2009). Antidepressant-like effect of the extract of Rosmarinus officinalis in mice: involvement of the monoaminergic system. Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry, 33(4), 642-650.
• Both adults and infants showed a reduced depressed affect in their EEG with inhalation of rosemary and lavender.  From:  Sanders, C., Diego, M., Fernandez, M., Field, T., Hernandez-Reif, M., & Roca, A. (2002). EEG asymmetry responses to lavender and rosemary aromas in adults and infants. International Journal of Neuroscience, 112(11), 1305-1320.
• In a study of 35 healthy volunteers, transdermal delivery of rosemary oil caused a significant increase in systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure and breathing rate, and subjects felt more attentive, and cheerful, validating a stimulating and anti-depressive, and anxiolytic effect in humans. From:  Hongratanaworakit, T. (2009). Simultaneous aromatherapy massage with rosemary oil on humans. Scientia Pharmaceutica, 77(2), 375-388.

IMPROVED MEMORY / COGNITION

• ​In studying improvement of memory and cognition, three Corydalis species were tested for acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity and Corydalis cava, Corydalis intermedia, Corydalis solida ssp. laxa and Corydalis solida exhibited significant inhibitory activity.  Extracts of Ruta graveolens (rue), Lavandula angustifolia (lavender), Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary), Petroselinum crispum (parsley) and Mentha spicata (spearmint) exhibited moderate inhibitory activity.  From:  Adsersen, A., Gauguin, B., Gudiksen, L., & Jäger, A. K. (2006). Screening of plants used in Danish folk medicine to treat memory dysfunction for acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 104(3), 418-422.
• Aromatherapy of rosemary and lemon essential oils in the morning, and lavender and orange in the evening improved cognition of Alzheimer’s patients.  From:  Jimbo, D., Kimura, Y., Taniguchi, M., Inoue, M., & Urakami, K. (2009). Effect of aromatherapy on patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Psychogeriatrics, 9(4), 173-179.
• In this double blind, randomized, placebo controled study of 44 adults, a combination of sage, rosemary, and melissa ethenal extracts taken internally improved verbal memory, especially in the older age group.   From:  Perry, N. S. L., Menzies, R., Hodgson, F., Wedgewood, P., Howes, M. J., Brooker, H. J., … & Perry, E. K. (2017). A randomised double-blind placebo-controlled pilot trial of a combined extract of sage, rosemary and melissa, traditional herbal medicines, on the enhancement of memory in normal healthy subjects, including influence of age. Phytomedicine.
• Lavender relaxed test takers, reduced test anxiety, and improved testing ability.  Rosemary stimulated test takers, reduced test anxiety, and made them faster but not more accurate when taking the test.  From:  Diego, M. A., Jones, N. A., Field, T., Hernandez-Reif, M., Schanberg, S., Kuhn, C., … & Galamaga, R. (1998). Aromatherapy positively affects mood, EEG patterns of alertness and math computations. International Journal of Neuroscience, 96(3-4), 217-224.
• In this study, 68 students were either given 500 mg of rosemary twice a day or a placebo for a month. The rosemary group had improved memory performance, reduced anxiety, depression, and better sleep.  From:  Nematolahi, P., Mehrabani, M., Karami-Mohajeri, S., & Dabaghzadeh, F. (2018). Effects of Rosmarinus officinalis L. on memory performance, anxiety, depression, and sleep quality in university students: A randomized clinical trial. Complementary therapies in clinical practice, 30, 24-28.
  The potent aroma of rosemary strongly improved environmental context dependent memory in humans.  From:  Ball, L. J., Shoker, J., & Miles, J. N. (2010). Odour‐based context reinstatement effects with indirect measures of memory: The curious case of rosemary. British Journal of Psychology, 101(4), 655-678.
• Rosemary and lavender scents lowered fatigue while lavender also lowered tension (anxiety / confusion) in human participants.  From:  Burnett, K. M., Solterbeck, L. A., & Strapp, C. M. (2004). Scent and mood state following an anxiety-provoking task. Psychological reports, 95(2), 707-722.
• Rosemary inhalation improved cognitive assessment in healthy adults.  From:  Moss, M., Cook, J., Wesnes, K., & Duckett, P. (2003). Aromas of rosemary and lavender essential oils differentially affect cognition and mood in healthy adults. International Journal of Neuroscience, 113(1), 15-38.
• Ingestion of dried rosemary improved cognitive function in the elderly.  From:  Pengelly, A., Snow, J., Mills, S. Y., Scholey, A., Wesnes, K., & Butler, L. R. (2012). Short-term study on the effects of rosemary on cognitive function in an elderly population. Journal of medicinal food, 15(1), 10-17.
• Inhalation of rosemary had a stimulant effect, improved mood, and brain clarity in participants.  From:  Sayorwan, W., Ruangrungsi, N., Piriyapunyporn, T., Hongratanaworakit, T., Kotchabhakdi, N., & Siripornpanich, V. (2012). Effects of inhaled rosemary oil on subjective feelings and activities of the nervous system. Scientia pharmaceutica, 81(2), 531-542.

ANXIOLYTIC

• Lavender and rosemary essential oil sachets reduced test-taking stress in graduate nursing students.  From:  McCaffrey, R., Thomas, D. J., & Kinzelman, A. O. (2009). The Effects of Lavender and Rosemary Essential Oils on Test‐Taking Anxiety Among Graduate Nursing Students. Holistic nursing practice, 23(2), 88-93.
• Aromatherapy massage using lavender, chamomile, rosemary, and lemon reduced anxiety and improved self esteem.  From:  Rho, K. H., Han, S. H., Kim, K. S., & Lee, M. S. (2006). Effects of aromatherapy massage on anxiety and self-esteem in korean elderly women: a pilot study. International Journal of Neuroscience, 116(12), 1447-1455.
• In this study, 68 students were either given 500 mg of rosemary twice a day or a placebo for a month. The rosemary group had improved memory performance, reduced anxiety, depression, and better sleep.  From:  Nematolahi, P., Mehrabani, M., Karami-Mohajeri, S., & Dabaghzadeh, F. (2018). Effects of Rosmarinus officinalis L. on memory performance, anxiety, depression, and sleep quality in university students: A randomized clinical trial. Complementary therapies in clinical practice, 30, 24-28.
• In a study of 14 stroke patients, a footbath and massage with juniper, lavender, rosemary, patchouli, and orange reduced stress, improved mood, increased body temperature, and improved sleeping satisfaction compared to the placebo.  From:  Lee, J. H., Seo, E. K., Shim, J. S., & Chung, S. P. (2017). The effects of aroma massage and foot bath on psychophysiological response in stroke patients. Journal of physical therapy science, 29(8), 1292-1296.
• Aromatherapy of lavender, peppermint, rosemary, and clary sage reduced stress in nursing students.  From:  Park, M. K., & Lee, E. S. (2004). [The effect of aroma inhalation method on stress responses of nursing students]. Taehan Kanho Hakhoe Chi, 34(2), 344-351.
• In a study of 35 healthy volunteers, transdermal delivery of rosemary oil caused a significant increase in systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure and breathing rate, and subjects felt more attentive, and cheerful, validating a stimulating and anti-depressive, and anxiolytic effect in humans. From:  Hongratanaworakit, T. (2009). Simultaneous aromatherapy massage with rosemary oil on humans. Scientia Pharmaceutica, 77(2), 375-388.
• A rosemary extract showed an anxiolytic effect in mice.  From:  Noori Ahmad Abadi, M., Mortazavi, M., Kalani, N., Marzouni, H. Z., Kooti, W., & Ali-Akbari, S. (2016). Effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Rosmarinus officinalis L. leaf on anxiety in mice. Journal of evidence-based complementary & alternative medicine, 21(4), NP85-NP90.
• Lavender and rosemary inhalation protects the body from oxidative stress by enhancing free radical scavenging activity and decrease the stress hormone, cortisol.  From:  Atsumi, T., & Tonosaki, K. (2007). Smelling lavender and rosemary increases free radical scavenging activity and decreases cortisol level in saliva. Psychiatry Research, 150(1), 89-96.

CHILDREN’S HEALTH

• Eucalyptus, marjoram, pennyroyal, and rosemary oils showed activity against human head lice.  From:  Yang, Y. C., Lee, H. S., Clark, J. M., & Ahn, Y. J. (2004). Insecticidal activity of plant essential oils against Pediculus humanus capitis (Anoplura: Pediculidae). Journal of medical entomology, 41(4), 699-704.

ANTIDIABETIC

• In this ethnobotanical study of plant use in Morocco, rosemary has been used to treat both hypertension and diabetes.  From:  Tahraoui, A., El-Hilaly, J., Israili, Z. H., & Lyoussi, B. (2007). Ethnopharmacological survey of plants used in the traditional treatment of hypertension and diabetes in south-eastern Morocco (Errachidia province). Journal of ethnopharmacology, 110(1), 105-117.
• Research on the anti-diabetic effect of rosmarinic acid from rosemary is reviewed.  From:  Ngo, Y. L., Lau, C. H., & Chua, L. S. (2018). Review on rosmarinic acid extraction, fractionation and its anti-diabetic potential. Food and Chemical Toxicology, 121, 687-700.
• Extracts of cloves, ground Jamaican allspice, and cinnamon showed the strong antidiabetic activity in vitro, likely due to phenolic content. Other potent herbs tested included sage, marjoram, tarragon, and rosemary. From:  Dearlove, R. P., Greenspan, P., Hartle, D. K., Swanson, R. B., & Hargrove, J. L. (2008). Inhibition of protein glycation by extracts of culinary herbs and spices. Journal of medicinal food, 11(2), 275-281.
• Carnosic acid and carnosol constituents from rosemary and sage had a blood sugar lowering effect.  From:  Rau, O., Wurglics, M., Paulke, A., Zitzkowski, J., Meindl, N., Bock, A., … & Schubert-Zsilavecz, M. (2006). Carnosic acid and carnosol, phenolic diterpene compounds of the labiate herbs rosemary and sage, are activators of the human peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma. Planta medica, 72(10), 881-887.
• Oregano, rosemary, clove, and other plants showed positive glycation inhibitory and antioxidative activities that could be useful in treating diabetes. From:  Kim, H. Y., & Kim, K. (2003). Protein glycation inhibitory and antioxidative activities of some plant extracts in vitro. Journal of agricultural and food chemistry, 51(6), 1586-1591.
• Oregano, rosemary, and lemon balm showed in vitro action that might be useful in treating diabetes and hypertension.  From:  Kwon, Y. I. I., Vattem, D. A., & Shetty, K. (2006). Evaluation of clonal herbs of Lamiaceae species for management of diabetes and hypertension. Asia pacific journal of clinical nutrition, 15(1), 107-118.
• Extract from R. officinalis had a hyperglycemic and insulin release inhibitory effects in rabbits. From:  Al-Hader, A. A., Hasan, Z. A., & Aqel, M. B. (1994). Hyperglycemic and insulin release inhibitory effects of Rosmarinus officinalis. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 43(3), 217-221.
• Likely related to its potent antioxidant properties, Rosmarinus officinalis extract had remarkable antidiabetogenic results in rabbits.  From:  Bakırel, T., Bakırel, U., Keleş, O. Ü., Ülgen, S. G., & Yardibi, H. (2008). In vivo assessment of antidiabetic and antioxidant activities of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) in alloxan-diabetic rabbits. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 116(1), 64-73.
• Rosemary extract showed antiglycation-related abilities.  From:  Hsieh, C. L., Peng, C. H., Chyau, C. C., Lin, Y. C., Wang, H. E., & Peng, R. Y. (2007). Low-density lipoprotein, collagen, and thrombin models reveal that Rosemarinus officinalis L. exhibits potent antiglycative effects. Journal of agricultural and food chemistry, 55(8), 2884-2891.

PAIN  REDUCTION / ANALGESIC

• Acupressure using lavender, rosemary, and peppermint  was more effective than just acupressure alone in relieving shoulder pain in stroke patients.  From:  Shin, B. C., & Lee, M. S. (2007). Effects of aromatherapy acupressure on hemiplegic shoulder pain and motor power in stroke patients: a pilot study. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 13(2), 247-252.
• In a double blind study of 46 diabetic patients with neuropathic pain, receiving an aromatherapy massage three times a week for 4 weeks reduced pain.  Essential oils used included: rosemary, geranium, lavender, eucalyptus, and chamomile.  From:  Gok Metin, Z., Arikan Donmez, A., Izgu, N., Ozdemir, L., & Arslan, I. E. (2017). Aromatherapy Massage for Neuropathic Pain and Quality of Life in Diabetic Patients. Journal of Nursing Scholarship, 49(4), 379-388.
• Rosemary essential oil had an anti-inflammatory and peripheral antinociceptive activity on mice.  From:  Takaki, I., Bersani-Amado, L. E., Vendruscolo, A., Sartoretto, S. M., Diniz, S. P., Bersani-Amado, C. A., & Cuman, R. K. N. (2008). Anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects of Rosmarinus officinalis L. essential oil in experimental animal models. Journal of Medicinal food, 11(4), 741-746.
• A product with hops, rosemary, and oleanolic acid reduced pain in arthritis subjects.  From:  Lukaczer, D., Darland, G., Tripp, M., Liska, D. A., Lerman, R. H., Schiltz, B., & Bland, J. S. (2005). A Pilot trial evaluating meta050, a proprietary combination of reduced iso‐alpha acids, rosemary extract and oleanolic acid in patients with arthritis and fibromyalgia. Phytotherapy Research, 19(10), 864-869.
• Rosemary demonstrated strong antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activity.  From:  González-Trujano, M. E., Peña, E. I., Martínez, A. L., Moreno, J., Guevara-Fefer, P., Deciga-Campos, M., & López-Muñoz, F. J. (2007). Evaluation of the antinociceptive effect of Rosmarinus officinalis L. using three different experimental models in rodents. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 111(3), 476-482.  Read more:  Link
• A formula of from hops, rosemary, and oleanolic acid reduced pain of osteoarthritis.  From:  Minich, D. M., Bland, J. S., Katke, J., Darland, G., Hall, A., Lerman, R. H., … & Tripp, M. (2007). Clinical safety and efficacy of NG440: a novel combination of rho iso-alpha acids from hops, rosemary, and oleanolic acid for inflammatory conditions This article is one of a selection of papers published in this special issue (part 1 of 2) on the Safety and Efficacy of Natural Health Products. Canadian journal of physiology and pharmacology, 85(9), 872-883.
• Rosemary was spasmolytic, improved local blood circulation and alleviated pain.  From:  Sagorchev, P., Lukanov, J., & Beer, A. M. (2010). Investigations into the specific effects of rosemary oil at the receptor level. Phytomedicine, 17(8), 693-697.  Read more:  Link
• Clove combined with rosemary reduced inflammatory pain in vivo.  From:  Beltrán-Villalobos, K. L., Déciga-Campos, M., Aguilar-Mariscal, H., González-Trujano, M. E., Martínez-Salazar, M. F., de los Ángeles Ramírez-Cisneros, M., … & López-Muñoz, F. J. (2017). Synergistic antinociceptive interaction of Syzygium aromaticum or Rosmarinus officinalis coadministered with ketorolac in rats. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, 94, 858-864.

JOINT PAIN

• A product with hops, rosemary, and oleanolic acid reduced pain in arthritis subjects.  From:  Lukaczer, D., Darland, G., Tripp, M., Liska, D. A., Lerman, R. H., Schiltz, B., & Bland, J. S. (2005). A Pilot trial evaluating meta050, a proprietary combination of reduced iso‐alpha acids, rosemary extract and oleanolic acid in patients with arthritis and fibromyalgia. Phytotherapy Research, 19(10), 864-869.
• A formula of from hops, rosemary, and oleanolic acid reduced pain of osteoarthritis.  From:  Minich, D. M., Bland, J. S., Katke, J., Darland, G., Hall, A., Lerman, R. H., … & Tripp, M. (2007). Clinical safety and efficacy of NG440: a novel combination of rho iso-alpha acids from hops, rosemary, and oleanolic acid for inflammatory conditions This article is one of a selection of papers published in this special issue (part 1 of 2) on the Safety and Efficacy of Natural Health Products. Canadian journal of physiology and pharmacology, 85(9), 872-883.
• This review of research discussed the following herbs for potentially treating osteoarthritis: turmeric, ginger, sesame, dog rose, rosemary, chili peppers, nettle, and some herbal blends.  Mahdavi, M., Taherian, M., Maghsoudi, H., & Taherian, R. (2018). Potential role of herbal medicine in alleviating pain and inflammation in osteoarthritis: A review. Journal of Cellular & Molecular Anesthesia, 3(1), 35-44.

INSOMNIA

• In a study of 14 stroke patients, a footbath and massage with juniper, lavender, rosemary, patchouli, and orange reduced stress, improved mood, increased body temperature, and improved sleeping satisfaction compared to the placebo.  From:  Lee, J. H., Seo, E. K., Shim, J. S., & Chung, S. P. (2017). The effects of aroma massage and foot bath on psychophysiological response in stroke patients. Journal of physical therapy science, 29(8), 1292-1296.
• In this study, 68 students were either given 500 mg of rosemary twice a day or a placebo for a month. The rosemary group had improved memory performance, reduced anxiety, depression, and better sleep.  From:  Nematolahi, P., Mehrabani, M., Karami-Mohajeri, S., & Dabaghzadeh, F. (2018). Effects of Rosmarinus officinalis L. on memory performance, anxiety, depression, and sleep quality in university students: A randomized clinical trial. Complementary therapies in clinical practice, 30, 24-28.

SPASMOLYTIC

• Spasmolytic activity of peppermint, sage, and rosemary were assessed.  From:  Taddei, I., Giachetti, D., Taddei, E., Mantovani, P., & Bianchi, E. (1988). Spasmolytic activity of peppermint, sage and rosemary essences and their major constituents. Fitoterapia, 59, 463-468.
• Rosemary essential oil was relaxant on tracheal smooth muscle in mammals.  From:  Aqel, M. B. (1991). Relaxant effect of the volatile oil of Romarinus officinalis on tracheal smooth muscle. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 33(1-2), 57-62.
• Rosemary was spasmolytic, improved local blood circulation and alleviated pain.  From:  Sagorchev, P., Lukanov, J., & Beer, A. M. (2010). Investigations into the specific effects of rosemary oil at the receptor level. Phytomedicine, 17(8), 693-69

NEUROPROTECTIVE

• Neuroprotective effects of carnosic acid is discussed.  From:  Tamaki, Y., Tabuchi, T., Takahashi, T., Kosaka, K., & Satoh, T. (2010). Activated glutathione metabolism participates in protective effects of carnosic acid against oxidative stress in neuronal HT22 cells. Planta medica, 76(07), 683-688.
• Rosemary and its rosmarinic acid constituent delayed motor dysfunction, reduced degeneration of motor neurons, and extended life span of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis mice.  From:  Shimojo, Y., Kosaka, K., Noda, Y., Shimizu, T., & Shirasawa, T. (2010). Effect of rosmarinic acid in motor dysfunction and life span in a mouse model of familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Journal of neuroscience research, 88(4), 896-904

HEPATOPROTECTIVE

• Hibiscus, rosemary, and sage species showed liver protective activity in rats. From:  Amin, A., & Hamza, A. A. (2005). Hepatoprotective effects of Hibiscus, Rosmarinus and Salvia on azathioprine-induced toxicity in rats. Life sciences, 77(3), 266-278.
• Rosemary extract and oil demonstrated potent hepatoprotective and antimutagenic activities related to high phenolic content and antioxidant activity in rat liver.  From:  Fahim, F., Esmat, A., Fadel, H., & Hassan, K. (1999). Allied studies on the effect of Rosmarinus officinalis L. on experimental hepatotoxicity and mutagenesis. International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition, 50(6), 413-427.
• Rosemary may be an effective alternative in the treatment of liver cirrhosis.  From:  Gutiérrez, R., Alvarado, J. L., Presno, M., Pérez‐Veyna, O., Serrano, C. J., & Yahuaca, P. (2010). Oxidative stress modulation by Rosmarinus officinalis in CCl4‐induced liver cirrhosis. Phytotherapy Research, 24(4), 595-601.
• Rosemary leaf extract limited weight gain and liver steatosis in mice.  From:  Harach, T., Aprikian, O., Monnard, I., Moulin, J., Membrez, M., Béolor, J. C., … & Darimont, C. (2010). Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) leaf extract limits weight gain and liver steatosis in mice fed a high-fat diet. Planta medica, 76(06), 566-571.
• Carnosol showed a liver protective effect in rats.  From:  Sotelo-Félix, J. I., Martinez-Fong, D., & De la Torre, P. M. (2002). Protective effect of carnosol on CCl4-induced acute liver damage in rats. European journal of gastroenterology & hepatology, 14(9), 1001-1006.
• Rosemary and thyme extracts were weight controlling, hepatoprotective, and hypolipidemic in vivo. From:  Hegazy, A. M., Abdel-Azeem, A. S., Zeidan, H. M., Ibrahim, K. S., & Sayed, E. E. (2018). Hypolipidemic and hepatoprotective activities of rosemary and thyme in gentamicin-treated rats. Human & experimental toxicology, 37(4), 420-430.
• Rosemary extracts were hepatoprotective in vivo.  Mohamed, W. A., Abd-Elhakim, Y. M., & Farouk, S. M. (2016). Protective effects of ethanolic extract of rosemary against lead-induced hepato-renal damage in rabbits. Experimental and Toxicologic Pathology, 68(8), 451-461.

​​GREEN GARDENING

• Rosemary and its constituents showed strong activity against weed germination.  Savory also had an effect.  From:  Angelini, L. G., Carpanese, G., Cioni, P. L., Morelli, I., Macchia, M., & Flamini, G. (2003). Essential oils from Mediterranean Lamiaceae as weed germination inhibitors. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 51(21), 6158-6164.  Rosemary was effective against the spotted spider mite on plants.  From: Miresmailli, S., Bradbury, R., & Isman, M. B. (2006). Comparative toxicity of Rosmarinus officinalis L. essential oil and blends of its major constituents against Tetranychus urticae Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae) on two different host plants. Pest management science, 62(4), 366-371.

• Thirty essential oils were tested against pathogenic plant bacteria. Ceylon cinnamon (leaf and bark), oregano, clove bud, palmarosa, basil, peppermint, rosemary, blue gum, camphor, lemongrass, aniseed, ylang ylang, silver fir, lemon, dwarf mountain pine, bay laurel, scots pine, black cumin, Indian frankincense, bergamot orange, common juniper, bitter orange, and neem showed varying degrees of reaction.  From: Popović, T., Milićević, Z., Oro, V., Kostić, I., Radović, V., Jelušić, A., & Krnjajić, S. (2018). A preliminary study of antibacterial activity of thirty essential oils against several important plant pathogenic bacteria. Pesticidi i fitomedicina, 33(3-4), 185-195.

​RESPIRATORY AID

• This article summarized the use of Eucalyptus citriodora, Eucalyptus globulus, Mentha piperita, Origanum syriacum, Salvia fruticosa and Rosmarinus officinalis in treating respiratory ailments.  From:  Rakover, Y., Ben-Arye, E., & Goldstein, L. H. (2008). The treatment of respiratory ailments with essential oils of some aromatic medicinal plants. Harefuah, 147(10), 783-8.

ASTHMA

• In a study of 44 subjects with asthma symptoms that were resistant to routine treatments, coughing and wheezing was were improved with a rosemary extract.  Some participants had side effects, including allergic contact dermatitis.  From:  Mirsadraee, M., Tavakoli, A., Ghorani, V., & Ghaffari, S. (2018). Effects of Rosmarinus officinalis and Platanus orientalis extracts on asthmatic subjects resistant to routine treatments. Avicenna journal of phytomedicine, 8(5), 399.

IMMUNE SYSTEM AID

• Rosemary extract fed to rats had a generalized immune enhancing effect.  From:  Babu, U. S., Wiesenfeld, P. L., & Jenkins, M. Y. (1998). Effect of dietary rosemary extract on cell-mediated immunity of young rats. Plant Foods for Human Nutrition, 53(2), 169-174.

CARDIAC HEALTH

• The antiplatelet activity of carnosic acid was demonstrated. From:  Lee, J. J., Jin, Y. R., Lee, J. H., Yu, J. Y., Han, X. H., Oh, K. W., … & Yun, Y. P. (2007). Antiplatelet activity of carnosic acid, a phenolic diterpene from Rosmarinus officinalis. Planta medica, 73(02), 121-127.
• Dried rosemary and  higher concentration of dried thyme significantly inhibited arterial thrombus formation. Both rosemary and thyme significantly inhibited platelet reactivity and enhanced vasodilation.  From:  Naemura, A., Ura, M., Yamashita, T., Arai, R., & Yamamoto, J. (2008). Long-term intake of rosemary and common thyme herbs inhibits experimental thrombosis without prolongation of bleeding time. Thrombosis research, 122(4), 517-522.
• Thyme and rosemary were antithrombotic in vitro and in vivo.  From:  Yamamoto, J., Yamada, K., Naemura, A., Yamashita, T., & Arai, R. (2005). Testing various herbs for antithrombotic effect. Nutrition, 21(5), 580-587.
• Carnosic acid has anti-inflammatory properties that could reduce atherosclerosis.  From:  Yu, Y. M., Lin, H. C., & Chang, W. C. (2008). Carnosic acid prevents the migration of human aortic smooth muscle cells by inhibiting the activation and expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9. British Journal of Nutrition, 100(04), 731-738.
• Carnosol, rosmanol, and epirosmanol had an inhibitory activity to LDL oxidation.  From:  Zeng, H. H., Tu, P. F., Zhou, K., Wang, H., Wang, B. H., & Lu, J. F. (2001). Antioxidant properties of phenolic diterpenes from Rosmarinus officinalis. Acta Pharmacologica Sinica, 22(12), 1094-1098.
• Rosemary supplements were cardiac protective in mice.  From:  Rafacho, B. P. M., dos Santos, P. P., de Freitas Gonçalves, A., Fernandes, A. A. H., Okoshi, K., Chiuso-Minicucci, F., … & de Paiva, S. A. R. (2017). Rosemary supplementation (Rosmarinus oficinallis L.) attenuates cardiac remodeling after myocardial infarction in rats. PloS one, 12(5), e0177521.
• In this ethnobotanical study of plant use in Morocco, rosemary has been used to treat both hypertension and diabetes.  From:  Tahraoui, A., El-Hilaly, J., Israili, Z. H., & Lyoussi, B. (2007). Ethnopharmacological survey of plants used in the traditional treatment of hypertension and diabetes in south-eastern Morocco (Errachidia province). Journal of ethnopharmacology, 110(1), 105-117.
• Oregano, rosemary, and lemon balm showed in vitro action that might be useful in treating diabetes and hypertension.  From:  Kwon, Y. I. I., Vattem, D. A., & Shetty, K. (2006). Evaluation of clonal herbs of Lamiaceae species for management of diabetes and hypertension. Asia pacific journal of clinical nutrition, 15(1), 107-118.

​DIGESTIVE AID

• An essential oil blend including rosemary, lemon, and peppermint rubbed on the abdomine reduced constipation in the elderly.  From:  Kim, M. A., Sakong, J. K., Kim, E. J., & Kim, E. H. (2005). Effect of aromatherapy massage for the relief of constipation in the elderly. Taehan Kanho Hakhoe Chi, 35(1), 56-64.
• The following methanol extracts showed activity against Helicobacter pylori which causes gastrointestinal disorders:  Myristica fragrans (nutmeg seed), Zingiber officinale (ginger root), Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary leaf), Achillea millefolium (yarrow), Foeniculum vulgare (fennel seed), Passiflora incarnata (passionflower), Origanum majorana (oregano), and others.  From:  Mahady, G. B., Pendland, S. L., Stoia, A., Hamill, F. A., Fabricant, D., Dietz, B. M., & Chadwick, L. R. (2005). In vitro susceptibility of Helicobacter pylori to botanical extracts used traditionally for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. Phytotherapy research, 19(11), 988-991.  Rosemary extracts reduced colon tissue lesions and colitis indices in rats and may be effective in treating irritable bowel syndrome.   From:  Minaiyan, M., Ghannadi, A., Afsharipour, M., & Mahzouni, P. (2011). Effects of extract and essential oil of Rosmarinus officinalis L. on TNBS-induced colitis in rats. Research in pharmaceutical sciences, 6(1), 13-21.

WEIGHT CONTROL

• Rosemary leaf extract limited weight gain and liver steatosis in mice.  From:  Harach, T., Aprikian, O., Monnard, I., Moulin, J., Membrez, M., Béolor, J. C., … & Darimont, C. (2010). Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) leaf extract limits weight gain and liver steatosis in mice fed a high-fat diet. Planta medica, 76(06), 566-571.
• Carnosic acid and carnosol inhibited adipocytes in mice and might be usable in obesity-related diseases.  From:  Takahashi, T., Tabuchi, T., Tamaki, Y., Kosaka, K., Takikawa, Y., & Satoh, T. (2009). Carnosic acid and carnosol inhibit adipocyte differentiation in mouse 3T3-L1 cells through induction of phase2 enzymes and activation of glutathione metabolism. Biochemical and biophysical research communications, 382(3), 549-554.
• Rosemary and thyme extracts were weight controlling, hepatoprotective, and hypolipidemic in vivo. From:  Hegazy, A. M., Abdel-Azeem, A. S., Zeidan, H. M., Ibrahim, K. S., & Sayed, E. E. (2018). Hypolipidemic and hepatoprotective activities of rosemary and thyme in gentamicin-treated rats. Human & experimental toxicology, 37(4), 420-430.

REDUCED ALLERGY

• Rosemary extract inhalation reduced allergic airway inflammation in mice related to dust mite allergies.  From:  HIROAKIMAKINO, R. Y. (2005). Effects of volatile constituents of a rosemary extract on allergic airway inflammation related to house dust mite allergen in mice. International journal of molecular medicine, 16, 315-319.

MENOPAUSE

• In a study of 87 menopausal women, 30-minute aromatherapy sessions twice a week for 4 weeks resulted in reduced phsychological symptoms.  Aromatherapy included lavender, geranium, rose, and rosemary essential oils at a ratio of 4:2:1:1 that were diluted to 3% in a blend of 90% almond and 10% primrose carrier oils.  From:  Taavoni, S., Darsareh, F., Joolaee, S., & Haghani, H. (2013). The effect of aromatherapy massage on the psychological symptoms of postmenopausal Iranian women. Complementary therapies in medicine, 21(3), 158-163.

BONE DENSITY

• Essential oils of sage, rosemary, thyme, juniper, pine, turpentine, and eucalyptus and their constituents of thujone, eucalyptol, camphor, borneol, thymol, alpha-pinene, beta-pinene, bornylacetate, and menthol inhibited bone resorption.  From:  Mühlbauer, R. C., Lozano, A., Palacio, S., Reinli, A., & Felix, R. (2003). Common herbs, essential oils, and monoterpenes potently modulate bone metabolism. Bone, 32(4), 372-380.

​ALOPECIA

• The active group who massaged a blend of thyme, rosemary, lavender, and cedarwood in carrier oils on their scalp daily, had reduced hair loss.  From:  Hay, I. C., Jamieson, M., & Ormerod, A. D. (1998). Randomized trial of aromatherapy: successful treatment for alopecia areata. Archives of dermatology, 134(11), 1349-1352.
• Alopicia patients who used a 2% rosemary treatment, showed more hair growth than the control.  From:  Panahi, Y., Taghizadeh, M., Marzony, E. T., & Sahebkar, A. (2015). Rosemary oil vs minoxidil 2% for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: a randomized comparative trial. Skinmed, 13(1), 15-21. 
• In a study of 40 patients with alopecia, the essential oil treatment in a carrier oil (with thyme, rosemary, lavender, evening primrose oil and cedarwood) was significantly more effective than the placebo.  From:  ÖZMEN, İ., ÇALIŞKAN, E., Ercan, A. R. C. A., AÇIKGÖZ, G., & Erol, K. O. Ç. (2015). Efficacy of aromatherapy in the treatment of localized alopecia areata: A double-blind placebo controlled study. Gulhane Medical Journal, 57(3).

DANDRUFF

• An herbal shampoo blend of alcohol extracts from Punica granatum, Rosmarinus officinalis, Matricaria chamomilla, Urtica dioica, Mentha piperita, and Salvia officinalis with Pirocton Olamine and Zinc-PCA were tested on 30 dandruff patients for two months. Significant reduction in dandruff resulted.  From:  Sahraie-Rad, M., Izadyari, A., Rakizadeh, S., & Sharifi-Rad, J. (2015). Preparation of strong antidandruff shampoo using medicinal plant extracts: a clinical trial and chronic dandruff treatment. Jundishapur Journal of Natural Pharmaceutical Products, 10(4), e21517.

ORAL HEALTH

• A mouthwash containing 5% extracts from ginger, rosemary, and calendula was effective against gingivitis and plaque in 50 patients in this double blind randomized placebo controled study.  From:  Mahyari, S., Mahyari, B., Emami, S. A., Malaekeh-Nikouei, B., Jahanbakhsh, S. P., Sahebkar, A., & Mohammadpour, A. H. (2016). Evaluation of the efficacy of a polyherbal mouthwash containing Zingiber officinale, Rosmarinus officinalis and Calendula officinalis extracts in patients with gingivitis: A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial. Complementary therapies in clinical practice, 22, 93-98.
• In a study of 110 volunteers, half the group used a rosemary toothpaste for 30 days. It was just as effective in treating gingivitus bleeding and bacterial plaque as the conventional toothpaste group. From: Valones, M. A., Silva, I. C. G., Gueiros, L. A. M., Leão, J. C., Caldas Jr, A. F., & Carvalho, A. A. T. (2019). Clinical Assessment of Rosemary-based Toothpaste (Rosmarinus officinalis Linn.): A Randomized Controlled Double-blind Study. Brazilian dental journal, 30(2), 146-151.
• Oral antibacterial effectiveness of essential oils is reviewed.  Oils include: Achillea ligustica (yarrow), Baccharis dracunculifolia, Croton cajucara (sacaca), Cryptomeria japonica (Japanese red cedar), Coriandrum sativum (coriander), Eugenia caryophyllata (clove), Lippia sidoides, Ocimum americanum (basil), and Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary). Constituents worth mentioning include menthol and eugenol.  From:  Freires, I. A., Denny, C., Benso, B., de Alencar, S. M., & Rosalen, P. L. (2015). Antibacterial activity of essential oils and their isolated constituents against cariogenic bacteria: a systematic review. Molecules, 20(4), 7329-7358.
• Rosemary extracts were antimicrobial against oral microbes and showed anti-inflammatory action in vitro.  From:  de Oliveira, J. R., de Jesus, D., Figueira, L. W., de Oliveira, F. E., Pacheco Soares, C., Camargo, S. E. A., … & de Oliveira, L. D. (2017). Biological activities of Rosmarinus officinalis L.(rosemary) extract as analyzed in microorganisms and cells. Experimental Biology and Medicine, 242(6), 625-634.
• Rosemary showed activity against oral bacteria in vitro.  From:  Silva, M. D. S. A., Silva, M. A. R., Higino, J. S., Pereira, M. S. V., & Carvalho, A. D. A. (2008). In vitro antimicrobial activity and anti-adherence of Rosmarinus officinalis Linn. against oral planktonic bacteria. Revista Brasileira de Farmacognosia, 18(2), 236-240.

By: Kathy Sadowski

Last Updated: 2/14/23