The Health Benefits of Rosemary
Many people says rosemary has many health benefits – not all are scientifically based.How to use rosemary to cook delicious and stay healthy.
Rosmarinus officinalis is a commonly used spice. Rosemary is the main ingredient in many pasta sauces, pizzas and balsamic vinegar. This perennial woody herb also has a long history of medicinal and health benefits.
Some, but not all, of the health benefits are supported by scientific evidence. Learn more about how to add rosemary to your diet that is both delicious and healthy.
Health Benefits
In a laboratory setting, rosemary is known to have antibacterial and antioxidant effects on animals. However, whether these benefits of rosemary apply to humans is unclear. Rosemary has been used in alternative medicine to treat or improve certain diseases.
The following are the conditions under which researchers applied the effects of rosemary; While some argue that rosemary’s potential health benefits are stronger than others, more research is needed on the overall effects of rosemary.
Hair Loss
Early studies have shown that applying rosemary oil to the scalp is as effective as minoxidil and can increase the amount of hair in men who are balding men.
In one study, people who massaged rosemary and other essential oils (lavender, thyme, and cedar) showed improvement after 7 months.
However, it is unclear whether rosemary provides benefits.
Arthritis
According to research from the University of Pennsylvania, essential oils containing rosemary are used to relieve muscle and joint pain caused by arthritis and also to improve blood circulation. Some early studies have shown that taking products containing rosemary, hops, and oleanolic acid can reduce the pain associated with arthritis. More research is needed to confirm this benefit.
Diabetic Kidney Damage (Nephropathy)
Some studies have shown that taking products containing rosemary, thyme, and lovech with standard diabetes medications may reduce protein levels in the urine. Protein in the urine is a hallmark of kidney disease in people with diabetes.
Mental Tiredness
Early studies have shown that taking rosemary does not improve attention or mental energy in less energetic adults. However, the findings do vary. Other studies have shown that it can reduce exam stress and relieve anxiety.
Fibromyalgia
While it was thought that rosemary could improve the effects of fibromyalgia, early research suggests that taking a product containing rosemary, hops, and oleanolic acid does not, in fact, improve symptoms of fibromyalgia.
Gum Disease (Gingivitis)
Early studies have shown that herbal mouthwashes containing rosemary and other ingredients help reduce bleeding and swelling in the gums of patients with gum disease, and are used twice a day after meals for two weeks.
Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension)
A preliminary study suggests that taking rosemary oil may temporarily raise blood pressure in people with low blood pressure, but this benefit is temporary.
Other popular uses of rosemary include the treatment of:
- Cough
- Eczema
- Gas
- Gout
- Headache
- High blood pressure
- Increasing menstrual flow
- Inducing abortion
- Indigestion
- Liver and gallbladder problems
More evidence is needed to confirm these benefits.
Nutrition Facts
When you cook with rosemary, you can use dried ground spices or fresh rosemary from the market. The nutrient content varies slightly due to the different concentrations of different versions of rosemary, but the use of rosemary in food is unlikely to produce substantial differences in calorie content or nutrient content.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, a tablespoon of dried rosemary provides less than 11 calories. Most calories come from carbohydrates in fiber form, but rosemary is not a significant source of carbohydrates, sugars, or fiber.
A typical tablespoon of rosemary is also unlikely to provide important micronutrients. However, you will get small amounts of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B6 and folic acid. The minerals in rosemary include calcium, iron, magnesium and manganese.
Selection, Preparation, and Storage
The taste of rosemary is often described as similar to the taste of pine trees. Some also describe it as spicy, lemon-flavored, or bitter.
Fresh rosemary is easy to find in the produce areas of most markets. It is relatively healthy and keeps fresher than many other vanilla kept fresh in the refrigerator. Therefore, many chefs prefer to use fresh (rather than dry) rosemary.
Like all dried herbs and spices, store the dried rosemary in an airtight container and place it in a cool, dark place. If properly stored, it can be stored for three to four years.
Recipes
Rosemary can be paired with grilled meats, tomatoes and vegetables. It is often used in Italian cuisine. Rosemary is often used to make pizza and is often mixed with other vanillas to make spices.
Try any of these delicious recipes with rosemary:
- Rosemary and Olive Oil Roasted Cashews Recipe
- Rosemary Vegetarian Eggplant With Pistachio Nuts
- Easy Rosemary Olive Oil White Bean Dip
- Whole Wheat Rosemary Crackers
- Tender Roasted Carrots With Orange and Fresh Rosemary
Some people also add rosemary to oils such as olive oil to soak it.
Possible Side Effects
When rosemary is used for food flavoring, it is safe for most people. It may also be safe to use as a drug in an appropriate dose for a short period of time. According to medical data, the typical dose of rosemary leaves is 4 to 6 grams per day. They recommend that rosemary essential oil should not be taken internally.
It has been reported that taking rosemary in large doses can cause allergic reactions. Side effects may include vomiting, cramps, coma, and in some cases, hydrops in the lungs.
Finally, rosemary should not be used by pregnant women or women who want to become pregnant.
