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Step 1
If you enjoy Mediterranean cuisine, chances are you’ve experienced the woodsy taste of the herb rosemary. This well known herb has enhanced the flavor of Mediterranean meat and vegetable dishes for centuries. This flavorful spice was once believed to help protect against evil spirits. These days, it appears to be more useful for the prevention of health problems. What are the health properties of rosemary that make it so important?
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Step 2
It May Protect the Brain and Improve Memory
The same anti-oxidant properties that make rosemary a good defense against free radical damage may also protect the brain from degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. The unique anti-oxidant, carnosic acid found in rosemary appears to protect brain cells against free radical damage. The results of this study were published in the Journal of Neurochemistry in 2008. -
Step 3
It Has Strong Anti-Oxidant Properties
Rosemary is rich in anti-oxidant power. It’s the source of two unique anti-oxidants know as rosmarinic acid and carnosic acid, as well as a variety of other potent free-radical inhibitors. In fact, rosemary is known to have up to two dozen different anti-oxidants present within its stalks. These components have the ability to off-set free radicals that can cause chronic disease. Rosemary is one spice that packs a powerful anti-oxidant punch. -
Step 4
It May Help to Normalize Estrogen Levels
A study conducted at State University of New Jersey showed that giving a two percent extract of rosemary to a group of women for twenty-one days resulted in lowering of their estrogen levels. Because rosemary activates a group of liver enzymes called the cytochrome P450 system, it helps to deactivate excess estrogen, thereby reducing its influence on breast tissue. This could potentially result in an overall lowering of breast cancer risk. -
Step 5
It May Protect Against Cancer
A study performed at university of Illinois Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition
showed that rats given carnosic acid or rosemary extract showed less damage to breast cells when exposed to a cancer causing agent. Rosemary seems to activate the liver enzymes responsible for detoxification of carcinogens. -
Step 6
Rosemary is also thought to have anti-inflammatory properties. It’s been used medicinally through the ages to promote health digestion and good immune function. Although larger studies are needed to confirm the health benefits of rosemary, adding it to your favorite foods is a simple step to take to give yourself a little extra protection as well as make your recipes taste better.
