Rosemary, as Ophelia notes in Hamlet, has long been associated with remembrance. The ancient Greeks believed it “comforts the brain…sharpens understanding, restores lost memory, awakens the mind.” Plants like rosemary act as chemical factories, potentially offering neuroprotective benefits. But how much rosemary is truly beneficial, and How Much Is Half A Teaspoon in the context of cognitive enhancement?
The Aromatic Influence of Rosemary
Even the scent of certain herbs can affect brain function. While aromatherapy literature often relies on subjective impressions, studies have explored the objective effects of rosemary aroma.
One study involved participants performing tests in a room scented with rosemary, lavender, or nothing. Lavender appeared to slow down the subjects, while rosemary seemed to improve their performance. However, this could be attributed to mood effects. Rosemary might simply be stimulating.
Studies measuring brain waves (EEG) have correlated findings with changes in mood, performance, and stress hormone levels. But is this solely due to the pleasant smell? Would a synthetic rosemary fragrance have the same effect?
A 2012 study provided some answers. Participants performing math in a rosemary-infused cubicle experienced a performance boost. Crucially, the improvement correlated with the amount of a rosemary compound absorbed into their bloodstream from the room’s aroma, indicating a direct effect on brain function.
Ingesting Rosemary: A Culinary Approach
If simply smelling rosemary can have such effects, what about eating it? Studies exist on the effects of inhaled rosemary on alertness, cognition, and stress hormone levels. However, research on cognitive performance after ingesting rosemary was lacking, until a study focused on older adults (average age 75) who consumed tomato juice with varying amounts of powdered rosemary. The dosages included nothing, a half teaspoon, a full teaspoon, two teaspoons, and a tablespoon. Placebo pills were also used to minimize placebo effects.
The study focused on “speed of memory” as a predictor of cognitive function during aging. The researchers discovered that the lowest dose (half a teaspoon) had a beneficial effect, accelerating the subjects’ processing speed. However, the highest dose (four teaspoons) impaired their processing speed. This suggests that a half-teaspoon dose may improve alertness, while a much larger dose could decrease it.
Therefore, “rosemary powder at the dose nearest normal culinary consumption demonstrated positive effects on speed of memory…” This highlights that more isn’t necessarily better. High-dose herbal supplements, extracts, or tinctures aren’t needed – simply cooking with spices can be sufficient.
Considerations and Cautions
While no side effects were reported in the study, this doesn’t give license to consume excessive amounts of rosemary. One documented case involves an individual who swallowed a rosemary twig, which punctured their stomach and liver, leading to an abscess.
Conclusion: Embrace Herbs and Spices Wisely
Explore the benefits of herbs and spices in cooking. Branch out – but leave the branches out. In moderation, rosemary, particularly a half teaspoon in culinary applications, may offer cognitive benefits. Avoid high-dose supplements and focus on incorporating natural herbs and spices into your diet for a balanced and healthful approach. Always prioritize safety and consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns about potential interactions or side effects.
