Synopsis

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

Rosmarinic acid is a naturally occurring polyphenolic compound found in several culinary and medicinal herbs, most notably in rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) and perilla (Perilla frutescens). Its use for colitis is primarily supported by preclinical scientific studies, rather than by traditional medicine or robust clinical trials in humans.

Animal studies, particularly in rodent models of colitis (such as dextran sulfate sodium [DSS]-induced colitis), have repeatedly shown that rosmarinic acid can reduce disease severity. The mechanism appears to involve its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. Research indicates that rosmarinic acid reduces levels of inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α and IL-6, inhibits NF-κB activation, and decreases oxidative stress in the colon. Histological analysis in these models often reveals reduced mucosal damage and inflammatory infiltration following treatment with rosmarinic acid.

Despite these promising preclinical results, there is a lack of well-designed clinical trials in humans evaluating the efficacy or safety of rosmarinic acid for colitis. Thus, while the scientific rationale exists, the evidence is limited to animal and in vitro models. As such, the strength of evidence supporting its use in humans for colitis remains low (rated 2/5), and its clinical application cannot be recommended without further human studies.

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