By Dayo Ade Olusola | 21 July 2025
Rosemary, the fragrant Mediterranean herb known for its culinary allure, is making headlines again — not for its use in roast chicken or focaccia, but for its promising benefits to brain health, memory function, and its potential role in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease.
Historically treasured for its flavour and aroma, rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) has also carried a symbolic link to memory and clarity since ancient times.
In classical Greece and Rome, students and scholars often wore sprigs of rosemary or burned the herb nearby during study to aid concentration.

Research indicates that rosemary’s aroma alone may enhance cognitive performance. One study found that individuals exposed to rosemary scent performed significantly better in memory tests than those in unscented environments.
The mechanisms by which rosemary benefits the brain are complex and multifaceted.

Additionally, rosemary has mild calming properties. Studies suggest its scent can reduce anxiety and help regulate sleep, both of which are linked to better memory retention and cognitive function.
Key to rosemary’s neurological benefits is a compound known as 1,8-cineole, which helps preserve acetylcholine, a critical neurotransmitter involved in learning and memory.
By slowing the breakdown of acetylcholine, rosemary may support cognitive health and potentially delay age-related memory decline.

Among its most potent phytochemicals is carnosic acid, known for its anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.
In a 2025 breakthrough, researchers developed a modified, stable form of carnosic acid called diAcCA. In pre-clinical studies, diAcCA significantly improved memory, increased synaptic density, and reduced harmful Alzheimer s-related proteins such as amyloid-beta and tau.
What makes diAcCA especially promising is its targeted action. It activates only in inflamed regions of the brain, potentially limiting side effects associated with broader-acting drugs.

Researchers also speculate that diAcCA could be useful in managing other inflammatory diseases, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and Parkinson’s.
Beyond brain health, rosemary is used traditionally to support digestive health, ease bloating, and relieve muscle pain.
It contains compounds like rosmarinic acid and ursolic acid, both known for their anti-inflammatory effects throughout the body.
The herb’s benefits may also extend to skincare. A growing body of research suggests rosemary extracts may help soothe acne, manage eczema, and even provide anti-ageing benefits by protecting against sun-induced damage.
Carnosic acid, in particular, is being studied for its potential in protecting skin cells and improving elasticity.

Despite these benefits, experts advise caution when using rosemary in concentrated forms.
While rosemary is generally safe when consumed in culinary amounts or used in teas and aromatherapy, large or highly concentrated doses may cause side effects.
High intake has been linked to vomiting and, in rare cases, seizures — particularly in individuals with epilepsy.
Pregnant people are also advised to avoid high doses due to concerns that rosemary may stimulate uterine contractions, although this remains a theoretical risk.

As excitement builds around compounds like diAcCA and the herb’s broader therapeutic potential, rosemary’s ancient reputation as a memory booster appears more relevant than ever.
Ongoing research may yet transform this humble kitchen herb into a powerful ally in combating some of the most devastating diseases of our time.
Credited to the Author: Dipa Kamdar, Senior Lecturer in Pharmacy Practice at Kingston University
This article is republished under a Creative Commons license.