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Rosemary

Introduction

Rosemary is an herb that is used in cooking and baking. The leaves can be made into an oil and have been used to ease feelings of anxiety and stress. Rosemary can also be taken as a pill, powder, or extract and has been used ease digestion. The herb can also be used as a cream or lotion.

Dosages

There aren’t any advised doses for rosemary.

What Research Shows

May Be Effective

Gingivitis —may be as effective as standard treatment when used with zingiber officinale and calendula officinalis extracts ^A1
Opioid withdrawal —may ease symptoms when used with standard treatment ^B1

Editorial process and description of evidence categories can be found at EBSCO NAT Editorial Process.

Safety Notes

It is likely safe to use rosemary on the skin, but reactions may happen.^C1 It is also likely safe to take rosemary orally in small doses for a short time. Not enough studies have been done to say whether it is safe to use for a long period. Rosemary in large amounts may not be safe for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Interactions

Talk to your doctor about any supplements or therapy you would like to use. Some can interfere with treatment or make conditions worse.

References►

A. Gingivitis

A1. Mahyari S, Mahyari B, et al. Evaluation of the efficacy of a polyherbal mouthwash containing Zingiber officinale, Rosmarinus officinalis and Calendula officinalis extracts in patients with gingivitis: A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2016 Feb;22:93-98

B. Opioid Withdrawal

B1. Solhi S, Salehi B, et al. Beneficial effects of rosmarinus officinalis for treatment of opium withdrawal syndrome during addiction treatment programs: a clinical trial. Addict Health. 2013;5(3-4):90-94.

C. Safety

C1. Miroddi M, Calapai G, et al. Rosmarinus officinalis L. as cause of contact dermatitis. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr). 2014 Nov-Dec;42(6):616-619.

Last reviewed July 2019 by EBSCO NAT Review Board Eric Hurwitz, DC Last Updated: 3/30/2020

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