Rosemary

Salvia rosmarinus

Salvia rosmarinus, commonly known as rosemary, is an aromatic evergreen shrub traditionally used in Mediterranean and European herbal medicine. While its use in traditional practices for medicinal purposes has not been extensively documented, it has shown potential in various scientific studies. Research indicates that the essential oil from Salvia rosmarinus 'Eretto Liguria' exhibits strong larvicidal activity against the tomato leaf miner, with an LC50 value below 1% at 72 hours. Additionally, chitosan treatment enhances physiological and metabolic responses in Salvia rosmarinus under combined drought and heat stress conditions, improving its resilience and phytochemical profile. Combined essential oils from multiple plants have shown enhanced efficacy against aphids compared to individual oils, though the specific role of rosemary is not highlighted in these studies. The hydrosols derived from Salvia rosmarinus contain a relatively higher presence of polar oxygenated compounds compared to its volatile oil. Safety concerns for Salvia rosmarinus are minimal; no major issues have been recorded. There are also no reported drug interactions, though further research is needed to fully understand the potential effects and applications in various contexts.

At a glance
Best evidence
D
Cautions

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

What the science says

  • Combined essential oils from multiple plants showed enhanced efficacy against aphids compared to individual oils. D PMID
  • The essential oil from Salvia rosmarinus 'Eretto Liguria' showed strong larvicidal activity against tomato leaf miner with an LC50 value below 1% at 72 hours. D PMID
  • Salvia rosmarinus hydrosols showed a relatively higher presence of polar oxygenated compounds compared to its volatile oil. D PMID
  • Chitosan treatment improved physiological and metabolic responses, enhancing resilience and phytochemical profile in Salvia rosmarinus under combined drought and heat stress. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Rosemary?

Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.

What does the scientific evidence say about Rosemary?

4 sourced findings are recorded for Rosemary; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Combined essential oils from multiple plants showed enhanced efficacy against aphids compared to individual oils.

How strong is the evidence for Rosemary?

The strongest finding for Rosemary carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Rosemary safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Rosemary in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Rosemary interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Rosemary in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

What are the common names of Rosemary?

Rosemary is also known as: Розмарин лекарственный, Romarin.

Is Rosemary a proven treatment?

No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.

Sources

  1. T2 Synergistic and Additive Interactions in Essential Oils Obtained from Combined Plant Materials: Enhanced Control of Insect Pests. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Chitosan-induced modulation of secondary metabolism and stress tolerance in Salvia rosmarinus under combined drought and heat stress. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Volatile compounds of volatile oils and hydrosols: intra-specific comparison in seven Lamiaceae species. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Chemical composition and insecticidal activity of Salvia rosmarinus 'Eretto Liguria' essential oil against tomato leaf miner (Tuta absoluta). literature abstract metadata