Rosemary Herb Benefits
Rosemary herb or rosmarinus officinalis was used in folk medicine and for spiritual purposes since around the year 1500. Rosemary shrub belongs to the mint family and is known for its strong aroma and needle-like leaves.
Rosemary was used traditionally to treat arthritis, gout, headaches, menstrual cramps, stomach upsets and several other conditions and illness.
There were several studies done to find out the compounds present in rosemary, its benefits and medicinal uses. Researchers discovered that rosemary contain carnosic acid, caffeic acid, rosmarinic acid and other plant compounds such as borneol, camphor and flavonoids.
All these plant chemicals combined produce antispasmodic, anti fungal, astringent, analgesic, anti-oxidant, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effects. No wonder some people refer it as the wonder herb.
One of the active compounds acts as a natural acetyl cholinesterase inhibitors. What it does is slows down the breakdown of a brain chemical called acetylcholine. What's good about this is it may prevent the deficiency of acetylcholine. If it happens, it can lead to memory deterioration and reduce mental ability. Alzheimer's disease is an example of acetycholine deficiency.
Rosemary leaves extract is widely marketed as a remedy to improve concentration, memory and mental vitality.
Another benefit of rosemary is in its ability to refresh and revitalize. Rosemary essential oil is a popular remedy used in aromatherapy to stimulate the senses, fight moodiness and fatigue.
Rosemary oil is also known for its effectiveness in treating head lice. It is also used to treat hair and scalp problems such as dry hair and scalp, itchy scalp and dandruff. It also promotes healthy hair growth by stimulating the hair follicles and has the potential to treat spot baldness or alopecia areata.
The extract of rosmarinus officinalis is also used to treat skin problems such as acne and eczema. Studies indicate that it may stimulate skin renewal and repair skin damage. It may help treat sagging skin and wrinkles due to its antioxidant properties and ability to fight free radicals.
Another one of the benefits of rosemary herbal extract is in preventing the formation of varicose veins. This is because the natural compounds in rosemary help improve blood circulation.
Preliminary studies also indicate that rosemary herbs have the potential to reduce the risk of certain cancer, stroke and rheumatism. It may also act as a natural diuretic, increasing the flow or urine thus eliminating excess water in the body as well as improve the function of the kidneys.
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