What Gives Rosemary Its Power?

Rosemary contains two quite different groups of natural compounds, depending on whether we look at its extracts or its essential oil.

Alcoholic and hydroalcoholic extracts of Rosmarinus officinalis, now also known scientifically as Salvia rosmarinus, are particularly rich in compounds called phenolic diterpenes. The most important are carnosic acid and carnosol, accompanied by rosmarinic acid and smaller amounts of flavonoids such as luteolin, apigenin and quercetin derivatives.

These compounds are studied particularly for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and their possible protective effects on cells and the nervous system.

Rosemary essential oil has a very different chemical profile. Its major constituents typically include 1,8-cineole, α-pinene and camphor, together with borneol, verbenone and other volatile compounds. These substances contribute to rosemary’s characteristic aroma and are associated with antimicrobial and neurosensory effects.

The exact balance can vary considerably between plants and oils, so rosemary extract and rosemary essential oil should not be considered interchangeable preparations.