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Also indexed as:Rosmarinus officinalis
Rosemary: Main Image© Steven Foster
Botanical names:
Rosmarinus officinalis

Parts Used & Where Grown

Rosemary is a small, fragrant evergreen shrub. The rosemary plant originated in the countries surrounding the Mediterranean Sea. However, it now grows in North America as well. The leaf is used in herbal medicine.

  • Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
  • Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
  • For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.

Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.

For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.

This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:

Used for AmountWhy
Atherosclerosis
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
Rosemary is traditionally reputed to have a positive effect on atherosclerosis.
Chronic Candidiasis
Refer to label instructions as Rosemary Oil1 star[1 star]
Volatile oils from rosemary have been shown to have significant antifungal action. Doctors recommend enteric-coated capsules, which break down in the intestines instead of the stomach.
Indigestion, Heartburn, and Low Stomach Acidity
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
Rosemary is a gas-relieving herb that may be helpful in calming an upset stomach.
Infection
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
Rosemary is an herb that directly attack microbes.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Refer to label instructions as Rosemary Oil1 star[1 star]
Rosemary oil has been used historically to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Applied to painful joints, it may help relieve rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.

Traditional Use (May Not Be Supported by Scientific Studies)

Throughout history, rosemary was used to preserve meats.1 It has long played a role in European herbalism and popular folklore. Sprigs of rosemary were considered a love charm, a sign of remembrance, and a way to ward off the plague. Rosemary was used by herbalists as a tonic for the elderly and to help with indigestion.2 In ancient China, rosemary was used for headaches and topically for baldness.3

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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2025.