Synopsis

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

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) has a long history of use in traditional medicine, but its use for cancer prevention is primarily grounded in recent scientific investigations. Preclinical and some early-stage clinical studies suggest that rosemary contains bioactive compounds—such as carnosic acid, carnosol, and rosmarinic acid—that exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative effects. Laboratory (in vitro) studies have demonstrated that extracts and isolated phytochemicals from rosemary can inhibit the growth of various cancer cell lines, including those from breast, prostate, colon, and skin cancers. Animal studies further support rosemary’s potential by showing that supplementation can reduce tumor incidence or slow tumor progression in certain models.

However, while these findings are promising, evidence in humans is limited. Clinical trials are sparse and often preliminary, focusing on biomarkers rather than actual cancer incidence or progression. The anti-cancer mechanisms proposed include reduction in oxidative stress, modulation of detoxification enzymes, and interference with molecular signaling pathways involved in cell proliferation and apoptosis. The evidence rating of 2 reflects that although there is a scientific rationale and encouraging preclinical data, robust clinical evidence is lacking. Rosemary is not a substitute for conventional cancer therapies, but ongoing research may clarify its role as a dietary preventive agent in the future.

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