They are known for flavoring the dishes, but aromatic herbs hold secrets that go beyond cooking. Some have been standing out for the properties that reveal about the human organism. Among them, there is a plant that is gaining more and more attention for reasons that extravate the taste.
Rosemary, a perennial flowering plant between May and October, has captured the interest of the scientific community. Its intense fragrance can be more than pleasant. According to Jornal de Notícias, inhaling its aroma can induce memory improvement, stimulate focus and generate sensations associated with well-being.
Connection between aroma and cognitive function
The plant, whose common name is low rosemary, contains compounds with properties that are being explored in the laboratory context. A recent study cited by the same source found that by stimulating blood circulation, rosemary promotes greater cerebral oxygenation. This improvement can translate into greater mental clarity and cognitive reinforcement.
Promising results in laboratory
Researchers developed a stable version of carnolic acid, one of rosemary’s active compounds. According to Jornal de Notícias, this extract has shown to increase the number of synapses, improve memory and reduce the presence of proteins associated with the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.
From the bench to the real world
So far, the effects have only been recorded on animal models. However, according to the same source, laboratory tests did not show toxicity, which paves the way to future clinical tests in human. Hope falls on the possibility of rosemary being used to treat pathologies such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease or even Parkinson’s disease.
Regardless of scientific advances, rosemary has long been used as a natural soothing. According to the same publication, its use can help reduce anxiety, a factor that in itself has a positive influence on memory retention and concentration capacity.
Benefits that go beyond the brain
In addition to its neurological properties, this plant can benefit the body to other levels. Jornal de Notícias states that rosemary has been used to facilitate digestion and combat inflammation. These characteristics make it an ally in the management of abdominal discomfort and also contribute to skin health.
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The compounds present in this herb can help reduce acne and protect against the effects of skin aging. It also underlines the same source that rosemary also has antioxidant action, being able to protect the skin from sun damage.
Learn how and where to plant rosemary
Of simple cultivation, rosemary prefers full sun and well -drained, slightly alkaline soil. Jardins magazine indicates that the best plantation season runs between March and April, and it is possible to collect leaves throughout the year.
The plant adapts well to flower boxes or pots, provided they are at least 30 to 40 centimeters in diameter. After flowering, it should be pruned to stimulate the appearance of new branches and flowers. According to it, it is not affected by pests or common diseases.
Little water, many effects
Rosemary water needs are minimal: weekly watering after planting is sufficient. Excess water can be harmful and cultivated in soaked soils are advised against.
In horticulture, rosemary can be used to form borders or delimit plugs. The same source points out that, in addition to repeling insects, it is beneficial to the overall balance of the garden.
Condiment and Remedy
As a condiment, rosemary is present in various gastronomic traditions. Infusion, it assumes antiseptic properties and can be used to relieve symptoms such as cough, asthma and fever.
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