It doesn’t taste, smell or look like it, but rosemary and mint are relatives. Both are part of the lamiaceae family, as well as basil, thyme and lavender. Unlike mint, which has soft, flimsy leaves and stems, rosemary is a woody shrub with rigid stems and firm needle-like leaves.
It features prominently in the Mediterranean Diet and is native to that area in addition to parts of Asia and North Africa. In marinades and in cooking, the herb’s robust flavor complements chicken, lamb, beef and pork. Paired with lemon, garlic and olive oil, all staples of the Mediterranean Diet, its aroma elevates roasted root vegetables.
Rosemary’s ability to accent so many foods makes it a favorite in herb gardens and kitchens. In addition to its taste, the herb has been linked to health benefits based on its nutrients and numerous studies. A brief list of its nutrients and what health conditions it might improve is below.
Cancer
Rosemary contains carnosic acid and carnosol, which researchers describe as being a “chemopreventive agent” against prostate cancer. Both compounds demonstrated the ability to impede a signal pathway that helps tumor cells survive.
Cortisol Reduction
Glands atop the kidneys produce cortisol, commonly called the “stress hormone.” Its job is to regulate metabolism, inflammation and immune function.
Cortisol has many functions in the human body, such as mediating the stress response, regulating metabolism, the inflammatory response and immune function. Cortisol levels increase during stressful situations, and having high levels of cortisol can worsen anxiety and contribute to obesity, according to this study and many others.
Researchers found that smelling rosemary reduced cortisol levels and alleviated bodily stress. The effect was observed even in people experiencing chronic stress.
Folate
This vitamin promotes healthy cell growth and the formation of red blood cells. Additionally, a folate and folic acid fact sheet from the National Institute of Health found that folic acid coupled with other B-vitamins reduced stroke risk. It also lowered the rate of heart defects in babies who were not genetically predisposed to developing a heart defect.
Immune Support
The herb contains rosmarinic acid, which has antioxidant properties and anti-inflammation qualities that have shown good results in inhibiting tumor growth and fighting skin, oral and colorectal cancers. The conclusion of this study referred to rosemary as a “potential anti-tumor plant.”
Manganese
Manganese is a mineral that is essential for bone strength, blood clotting, reproduction and a healthy immune system, according to the National Institute of Health fact sheet. Blood clotting is a critical bodily function that equips the body to heal from injury.
Memory
A British University conducted a study involving three groups of people who were 65 and older. Each group consisted of 150 participants. One group sat in a room infused with lavender, a second room had no scent, and the third was infused with rosemary.
The individuals in the rosemary-scented room scored 15% higher on a multi-faceted memory test than the groups in the other two rooms.
Niacin
Like folate, niacin is a B-vitamin. It helps bodies produce energy, and it aids the body in extracting and using fatty acids, carbohydrates and protein.
Phytochemicals
Phytochemicals may help in preventing chronic diseases. Accoding to CARE Hospital, the phytocehmical pesent in rosemary in linked to better eye and kidney health as well as curtailing the risk of developing asthma.
Riboflavin
Riboflavin is a micronutrient that helps keep hair, nails and skin healthy. Riboflavin, according to the National Institute of Health, also supports lactation and equips the body to digest carbohydrates, fats and proteins to provide energy.
Thiamin
This vitamin promotes the development, growth and healthy function of cells.
