Rosemary: Benefits, Uses, and Contraindications

Everyone knows the rosemary plant as a flavouring for our dishes thanks to its intense and appetising aroma, but the benefits of rosemary they are not limited to the table: according to a study conducted by two researchers from Northumbria University, Mark Moss and Jemma McCready, and presented at the British Psychological Society's annual conference, the aroma of rosemary is good for the brain, increases concentration and memory skills, improves mood and contains carnosic acid and rosmarinic acid, both useful for fight Alzheimer's.

Index of topics

Benefits

For the research, the two scholars involved 66 people divided into two groups of 33 and subjected them to a series of memory tests, conducted in two different rooms: one pervaded by the scent of rosemary and the other without any scentThe participants were then asked to perform some tests which consisted of searching for hidden objects and remembering others that they had seen quickly. It emerged that the participants who had carried out the tests in the scented room had obtained better results compared to those who were placed in the unscented room. The result was that the rosemary aroma improved long-term memory and mental arithmetic.

Property

In particular, the aroma of rosemary, according to the researchers, would act above all on prospective memory, which is the basis of the ability to remember events that will have to take place in the future, such as remembering to take medicine or buy something. This is why the results obtained from the research could also prove useful for the treatment of patients with memory deficitsAs a natural remedy for our health, rosemary has many qualities. First, it helps reduce stress and anxiety, and acts as a pain reliever, especially for joint problems. It's also an antiseptic, calms the respiratory system in cases of asthma and coughs, aids digestion, and is considered an excellent antirheumatic. For these specific functions, rosemary can be taken in the form of a decoction, herbal tea, or infusion.

Nutritional values

One hundred grams of rosemary contain 131 calories and also:

67,30 grams of water
20,7 grams of carbohydrates
14,1 grams of fiber
5,86 grams of lipids
3,31 grams protein

Rosemary also contains:

Vitamin A and vitamin B6
668 milligrams of Potassium
317 milligrams of Calcium
91 milligrams of Magnesium
66 milligrams of Phosphorus
26 milligrams of sodium
6,65 milligrams of Iron

Use in the kitchen

Rosemary is certainly one of the most used herbs in Mediterranean cuisine.Its delightful flavor can be sprinkled on any dish: meat, fish, sauces, and salads. You can also use it as an essential oil, adding a few drops to your bath. You'll immediately experience relaxation benefits, while also feeling more energetic as it improves circulation. Finally, a third possible use is rosemary in herbal teas, infusions, and decoctions. Its effectiveness is guaranteed in this case, too.

Recipes with rosemary

When it comes to using rosemary in the kitchen, you're spoiled for choice. Here are some of the most popular recipes on our site.

Porcini mushrooms with rosemaryA combination of great flavor and delicacy.
Potato pancakesWith a touch of rosemary and ginger they become exquisite.
Fruit salad. Rosemary can make a difference in this case too.
Gratinated vegetablesHealthy dish, with the addition of rosemary.
Lemon ChickenRosemary is a must-have here.

Herbal tea with rosemary

This herb can also serve as an ingredient for a fragrant tisane, ideal for cleansing and decongesting the intestines when you feel like you've overindulged. Chop 30 grams of rosemary, 10 grams of rhubarb, and 10 grams of fennel into a glass jar. If needed, boil the water and pour two tablespoons into your cup: let it steep for a few minutes, strain through a sieve, and sip your herbal tea. For those with a sweet tooth, add a teaspoon of honey and a few grams of licorice!

Controindicazioni

There are no specific contraindications for rosemary, which is also available year-round. The only people who should avoid it, except in small doses, are those taking iron supplements.