Rosemary: the aromatic plant that supports memory, aids digestion and reduces stress

Rosemary is best known for its strong aroma in cooking, but specialists point out that this plant also has beneficial health properties, owing to its content of antioxidants and bioactive compounds. Psychonutritionist Gina Tăujan explained, in an interview given to Digi24.ro, what the benefits of rosemary are and how it can be incorporated into the daily diet.

Specialists emphasise, however, that rosemary is not a miracle remedy, but rather an ingredient that can complement a healthy lifestyle, whose effects are most evident as part of a varied and balanced diet.

What rosemary is

Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) is a perennial aromatic plant, native to the Mediterranean region, used for centuries in cooking, cosmetics, and traditional medicine. It belongs to the Lamiaceae family, alongside mint, basil, and sage. It has narrow, dark-green leaves and small flowers in shades of blue, purple, or white.

The plant reaches its peak maturity and most intense aroma in summer, between June and August, a period considered ideal for harvesting. Specialists recommend picking the young sprigs in the morning, after the dew has evaporated, in order to preserve the essential oils as effectively as possible.

The health benefits of rosemary

According to Gina Tăujan, the main properties of rosemary include antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. The plant contains active substances that help combat oxidative stress, a process associated with cellular ageing and the onset of chronic conditions, by neutralising free radicals.

Studies in recent years have also highlighted rosemary's potential to support cognitive function. Certain active compounds in the plant have been linked to improvements in attention, concentration, and memory, which is why, as far back as Antiquity, rosemary was considered a symbol of mental clarity.

In traditional medicine, rosemary is frequently used to support digestion, and has been associated with the relief of bloating and abdominal discomfort following heavy meals. Additionally, recent research has been examining the influence of its aroma on mental wellbeing, with some studies suggesting a possible role in reducing stress and promoting a sense of relaxation and emotional balance.

How rosemary can be consumed

Rosemary is widely used in cooking, one of the best-known combinations being with roasted potatoes, olive oil, and garlic. It also pairs well with various types of meat — chicken, lamb, or pork — added either finely chopped or as whole sprigs, which gradually release their essential oils. In Mediterranean cuisine, it is frequently paired with fish as well.

The plant is also used in baked goods, such as homemade bread or focaccia, where it adds a pleasant fragrance and subtle spiced notes. It can be incorporated into salad dressings and marinades. It is also sometimes consumed as an infusion, appreciated for its tonic effect and its distinctive, slightly resinous flavour.

This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not replace the advice of a specialist doctor. Any recommendations regarding consumption should come from a qualified professional.