Rosmarinic acid

Rosmarinic acid is potent flavonoid with powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
It may help fight Herpes Simplex virus as well as improve heart and lung function.
It is very well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and the skin, unlike some other similar flavonoids.

Herbal Sources

It is found mostly in spices and herbs, such as:

It can help protect the lungs from infection and prevent inflammation of the airways such as in cases of bronchitis, allergies or asthma.
It can also help eradicate other unwanted microbes lurking in our lungs and clear the nasal passages. By doing so, the lungs are able to work with their full potential which increases oxygen levels in the blood and makes it easier for the heart to pump the blood.
It can prevent formation of atherosclerotic plaque in the arteries and inhibit oxidation of LDL cholesterol, especially in combination with other powerful antioxidants.
It may also lower elevated heart rate and blood pressure.
Rosmarinic acid may reduce the risk of dementia, especially Alzheimer’s disease. It seems to work by modulating neurotransmission of acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme which affects the synthesis of neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Not enough acetylcholinesterase or too much it can cause problems.
While acetylcholinesterase inhibitors work by preventing the enzyme from breaking down acetylcholine, the flavonoid modulates its activity thereby establishing normal levels of acetylcholinesterase and acetylcholine, in the brain.
The herb may also reduce the risk of arthritis and cancer, protect DNA from damage and slow down the aging process.

Pregnant women and individuals with iron deficiency shouldn’t take high doses of rosemary since it may cause abortion as well as anemia.

Source: “Rosmarinic acid for better brain function and higher blood oxygen levels”, www.heart-health-guide.com/rosmarinic-acid.html