Edited by Eleonora Maria Vladimiriou, Well.cy
A simple herb commonly used in everyday cooking may offer benefits for brain health and could play a role in protecting against Alzheimer’s disease.
The connection between diet and brain health is well established, with research suggesting that certain herbs may support memory and cognitive function. One study identified rosemary as a particularly promising herb when it comes to memory.
Maintaining cognitive health is an important part of overall well-being, and what we eat can play a significant role. Research has linked a number of foods and herbs to better brain function. Fruits and vegetables can help protect brain cells, coffee may improve concentration, and peanuts have been associated with better memory.
Rosemary has also attracted attention for its potential effects on cognitive function.
Researchers at the Scripps Research Institute in San Diego studied a natural compound found in rosemary and examined its effects on memory and brain health. In experiments involving mice, the compound was associated with improved learning and memory, as well as an increase in synapses, the connections between neurons in the brain.
The loss of synapses is often associated with cognitive decline and memory loss and is also a characteristic associated with Alzheimer’s disease. The research also found that rosemary may reduce the buildup of amyloid plaques and tau tangles, two biological features linked to Alzheimer’s.
Rosemary and sage: Two herbs with potential health benefits
Rosemary contains more than 50 natural compounds that may offer various health benefits. These include supporting digestion, helping reduce stress and supporting the immune system. Sage is also rich in vitamin K, which plays an important role in maintaining healthy bones.
Adding herbs such as rosemary and sage to everyday meals can be an easy way to include more plant-based ingredients in your diet. They can be added to pasta, stews and roasted dishes or used as fresh garnishes to add flavor.
While the research into rosemary and brain health is promising, much of the evidence is still based on laboratory and animal studies. More research is needed to determine how these findings apply to people and whether rosemary can directly help prevent or treat Alzheimer’s disease.
