5 reasons to add rosemary to your routine
What's the story
We all know rosemary as a fragrant herb that we often use in our kitchens. However, the herb is now making headlines for its cognitive benefits.
Recent studies indicate that rosemary may contribute to improving memory and concentration.
Here, we look at five powerful ways rosemary can boost your memory.
The herb is simply amazing for the ones looking to improve their cognitive functions naturally.
Scent impact
Aromatic influence on memory
Interestingly, the aroma of rosemary has been associated with enhanced memory performance.
Simply inhaling the scent of rosemary essential oil could improve your prospective memory (i.e. remembering the things you need to do in the future).
The effect comes due to compounds such as 1,8-cineole in the herb's oil.
By just diffusing rosemary oil around you, you could feel an uplift in clarity and focus.
Brain protection
Antioxidant properties
Rosemary has antioxidants that protect your brain cells from free radical damage.
These antioxidants may reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, two factors that are linked to cognitive decline.
Including rosemary in your diet could promote your brain health by keeping your cells intact and supporting your overall neurological function.
Chemical boost
Enhancement of neurotransmitters
Compounds present in rosemary are thought to have a beneficial effect on the activity of neurotransmitters.
More specifically, they may prevent the degradation of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter important for learning and retaining memory.
By maintaining acetylcholine levels, rosemary could help in maintaining cognitive functions needed for good information recall.
Calming effect
Potential stress reduction
Although Rosemary's calming properties may not directly enhance memory, they may indirectly help by keeping stress levels at bay.
High stress can affect cognitive functions and affect memory retention.
The soothing aroma of rosemary may promote relaxation and help reduce anxiety, putting you in the best state of mind for learning and memorization.
Blood flow support
Improved circulation
Rosemary is believed to enhance circulation by dilating blood vessels and increasing blood flow to the brain.
Improved circulation makes sure that the brain gets enough oxygen and nutrients required for its optimal functioning.
Regular use of rosemary could thus lead to improved mental alertness by facilitating efficient nutrient delivery across the body's systems.