How does rosemary improve memory?

A piece of string around your finger, post-its and notifications may all help you remember. Did you know that rosemary has long been associated with memory and could also have a role to play? In the fourth act of Shakespeare’s Hamlet, Orphelia refers to rosemary as being for « remembrance ». More recently, scientific studies have proven this plants ability to improve academic performance and even, in some cases, enhance cognitive function in people suffering from Alzheimer’s disease [1,2,3]. But, how does rosemary do this ?

Salvia rosmarinus

Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) is an aromatic, evergreen shrub which can grow to 4 -5 feet in height. Its fragrant, resinous needle-like leaves are green on the upper side and white on the underside. The tiny two-lipped flowers can be blue, lavender or white and grow in clusters around the square stems. Commonly used in Mediterranean cooking, it has an instantly recognisable smell. 

One of the ways that rosemary enhances memory is through its unique aroma. One of its aromatic components, 1.8 cineole, prevents the breakdown of a neurotransmitter involved in memory, learning and thinking called acetylcholine. People suffering from Alzheimer’s disease are often deficient in acetylcholine and it is thought that this may be one of the causes of the disease [4].

In order to function correctly brain cells need a smooth and continuous blood supply bringing oxygen and nutrients. Rosemary stimulates peripheral circulation transporting blood to all parts of the brain [1].

Rosemary also helps to relieve anxiety and depression allowing us to think clearer [1]. Two of its components, rosmarinic acid and carnosic acid, are powerful antioxidants. The hippocampus, which plays an major role in cognition, memory and stress responses, is sensitive to oxidative stress. Protecting the brain against oxidative stress leads to greater memory retention and learning [2].

In addition to adding rosemary to savoury and sweet dishes, infusions are a great way to benefit from rosemary’s neuroprotective properties. You can use a level tablespoon of dried or fresh rosemary per cup. Allow to infuse for 10 minutes keeping the cup covered to preserve the aromatic molecules.

So, enjoy the fresh and stimulating smell of rosemary in the knowledge that your brain is also benefitting!

For more information on how you can improve your memory, read the post "Five surprising benefits of walking in nature".

If you would like to find out about more plants and receive recipes you can try at home, sign up to the monthly newsletter here.

[1] Nematolahi P, & al. Effects of Rosmarinus officinalis L. on memory performance, anxiety, depression, and sleep quality in university students: A randomized clinical trial. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2018 Feb;30:24-28.

[2] Ghasemzadeh Rahbardar M, Hosseinzadeh H. Therapeutic effects of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) and its active constituents on nervous system disorders. Iran J Basic Med Sci. 2020 Sep;23(9):1100-1112.

[3] Kosmopoulou D & al. Neuroprotective Benefits of Rosmarinus officinalis and Its Bioactives against Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Diseases. Applied Sciences. 2024; 14(15):6417.

[4] Chen ZR, & al. Role of Cholinergic Signaling in Alzheimer's Disease. Molecules. 2022 Mar 10;27(6):1816.