Rosemary: From kitchen staple to brain-boosting ally

It turns out that rosemary is not just an aromatic spice from the kitchen shelf. It can also become your ally in combating distraction, bad moods, and decreased concentration.

Rosemary has long been used as a plant that supports memory and mental clarity. In ancient Greece, students wore its sprigs in their hair before exams – and as it turns out, it wasn't just symbolic. Modern research confirms that a compound found in rosemary – 1,8-cineole – can affect brain activity. How does this happen? It increases alertness, improves concentration, and facilitates information processing.

In experiments conducted by scientists from Northumbria University, participants exposed to the scent of rosemary oil performed better in memory tests than those in a neutral environment. And it wasn't a subtle difference – improvement reached up to 15%.

Rosemary is also a true powerhouse of antioxidants – such as carnosic acid and rosmarinic acid. These compounds not only support brain function on a daily basis but also protect nerve cells from damage. Therefore, they can help in the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Studies indicate that regular contact with essential oil or rosemary infusions can have a long-term impact on nervous system health.

The aroma of rosemary affects not only the mind but also emotions. Inhaling the oil can lower cortisol levels, the stress hormone, thereby reducing nervous tension. Some specialists even claim that rosemary has potential as a natural antidepressant – especially in mild states of low mood.

It's also worth mentioning that rosemary oil exhibits mild calming effects – it can therefore help before an important presentation, exam, or during an intense day at work.