Evidence supporting the use of: Rosemary
For the body system: Acetylcholine

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) has a long history of use in traditional medicine for memory and cognitive support, which is often linked to the acetylcholine system. Scientifically, some studies have investigated rosemary’s effects on acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter critical for memory and learning. Rosemary contains compounds such as rosmarinic acid and carnosic acid, which have been shown in vitro and in animal studies to inhibit acetylcholinesterase—the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine—potentially increasing acetylcholine availability in the brain. For example, a 2012 study in Fitoterapia found that rosemary extract had significant acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity. Additionally, small human studies (e.g., Pengelly et al., 2012) have suggested modest cognitive benefits associated with rosemary aroma or supplementation, though these effects are not robust or consistent. However, the clinical evidence is limited and not conclusive. Most studies are preclinical or involve small sample sizes. Systematic reviews generally conclude that while rosemary shows some promise, more rigorous trials are needed to confirm its effects on the acetylcholine system and cognitive function in humans. In summary, rosemary’s use for acetylcholine support is partly justified by scientific findings, but the quality and quantity of the evidence are still insufficient to warrant a high confidence rating.

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