Rosmarinic Acid: Benefits, Dosage, Contraindications

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Rosmarinic acid is a polyphenol naturally present in the plant families Lamiaceae and Boraginaceae, such as rosemary, lemon balm, and perilla. Discovered in 1958, it is named after rosemary from which it is extracted. This water-soluble compound has a unique chemical structure derived from caffeic acid and 3,4-dihydroxyphenyllactic acid. Thanks to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties, it is gaining attention for its multiple benefits on human health. Preclinical studies confirm that rosmarinic acid improves cognitive deficits in experimental models of neurodegenerative diseases. For instance, it reduces amyloid protein aggregation in Alzheimer's disease and mitigates oxidative damage in ischemic stroke cases. Bioavailable orally and topically (in an alcohol-based preparation), it easily crosses membranes to act locally or systemically. These properties make it a promising candidate for applications against chronic inflammatory diseases.

Other name(s) 

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Phytochemicals


Indications

Rating methodology

EFSA approval.

Several clinical trials (> 2) randomized controlled with double blind, including a significant number of patients (>100) with consistently positive outcomes for the indication.
Several clinical trials (> 2) randomized controlled with double blind, and including a significant number of patients (>100) with positive outcomes for the indication.
One or more randomized studies or multiple cohorts or epidemiological studies with positive outcomes for the indication.
Clinical studies exist but are uncontrolled, with conclusions that may be positive or contradictory.
Lack of clinical studies to date that can demonstrate the indication.


Allergies
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A clinical study evaluated the efficacy of rosmarinic acid in treating seasonal allergic rhinoconjunctivitis. In a double-blind randomized trial, 29 participants received 200 mg, 50 mg of rosmarinic acid, or a placebo per day for 21 days. The results revealed a significant reduction in symptoms such as nasal itching and watery eyes in the 200 mg group, accompanied by a decrease in eosinophil and neutrophil counts in nasal lavage fluid compared to the placebo. No notable adverse effects were reported.

Posologie

posologieOrally

posologie200 mg

formulationstandardized extract


Dermatoses
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In a study on atopic dermatitis, 21 participants with mild forms of the condition applied a cream containing 0.3% rosmarinic acid to affected areas twice daily for 8 weeks. The results showed a significant decrease in erythema and trans-epidermal water loss compared to a placebo. Additionally, the SCORAD index, measuring the severity of atopic dermatitis, significantly improved. Participants also reported a reduction in symptoms such as dryness and itching, demonstrating rosmarinic acid's potential as a safe and effective topical treatment for inflammatory skin conditions.

Posologie

posologieOrally

posologie0.3 %

formulationcream


Cognitive decline
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A randomized controlled trial explored the effects of a standardized Melissa officinalis extract containing rosmarinic acid in older adults with mild cognitive decline. Participants received 300 mg of this extract daily for 16 weeks. Results showed improvement in cognitive functions, notably verbal and working memory, in the treated group compared to the placebo. These benefits are likely related to rosmarinic acid's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, suggesting its potential role in preventing age-related cognitive decline.

Posologie

posologieOrally

posologie42 mg

formulationstandardized extract


Properties


Anti-inflammatory

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Rosmarinic acid acts by inhibiting pro-inflammatory mediators such as cytokines (IL-12, IL-6) and enzymes (COX-2, iNOS). These mechanisms are enhanced by its regulatory effect on NF-3Ba and STAT3, two key pathways in chronic inflammation. Studies show efficacy in models of arthritis and colitis.

Usages associés

Dermatoses

Neurological

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Thanks to its antioxidant and anti-apoptotic properties, rosmarinic acid protects nerve cells against oxidative stress and inflammation. It modulates pathways like ERK1/2 and reduces the accumulation of toxic proteins (such as A32 in Alzheimer's disease). This action also promotes neurogenesis in the hippocampus, suggesting potential for neurodegenerative disorders.

Usages associés

Cognitive decline

Anti-allergic

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Rosmarinic acid reduces respiratory allergy symptoms by inhibiting histamine release from mast cells and regulating Th2 responses. Its effect on allergic rhinitis has been demonstrated by a significant reduction of inflammatory cytokines and eosinophils in clinical studies.

Usages associés

Allergies


Safety dosage

Adult: 40 mg - 200 mg

For an adult, rosmarinic acid is primarily used in the form of plant extracts like lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) or rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), which are rich in it. Dosages vary according to the indication: - For mild cognitive disorders, a standardized extract of lemon balm containing about 14% rosmarinic acid is generally administered at a rate of 300 mg per day, equivalent to a dose of about 42 mg of rosmarinic acid. - For allergies or inflammation, extracts rich in rosmarinic acid can be dosed at 200-300 mg of pure rosmarinic acid per day, according to available studies.