Drinking rosemary tea has become increasingly popular thanks to modern research validating traditional claims about this fragrant herb. Rosemary contains active compounds that reduce inflammation, protect cells from damage, enhance digestion and more.
Keep reading to learn 11 ways rosemary tea boosts wellness based on scientific evidence. We’ll also explore proper preparation, dosage, timing and precautions for safely harnessing the health advantages of rosemary.
1. Eases Joint Pain and Arthritis
Rosemary is traditionally used to alleviate muscle aches, arthritis and rheumatism. Studies reveal its active ingredients carnosic acid and rosemarinic acid reduce joint inflammation and decrease pain signals to the brain. Enjoying rosemary tea over an extended period seems particularly helpful for persistent headaches, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
2. Supports Blood Sugar Control
By increasing cell sensitivity to insulin, rosemary enables better blood sugar regulation. Insulin is then more effective at transporting sugar from the bloodstream into cells for energy usage and storage. For those with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes, rosemary helps stabilize blood glucose within healthy ranges.
3. Exhibits Antimicrobial Effects
In hot climates with limited refrigeration, rosemary prevents spoilage and foodborne illnesses thanks to its antimicrobial properties. Rosemary extracts restrict the spread of bacteria like E. coli and S. aureus. Regularly drinking rosemary tea may also prevent recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs).
4. Displays Anti-Tumor Potential
Certain phenolic acids in rosemary show anti-tumor effects in laboratory and animal models. Early research indicates rosemary intake may help prevent prostate cancer in men and breast cancer in women. However, more evidence is still needed to confirm cancer-protective effects in humans.
5. Boosts Scalp Circulation for Hair Growth
Rosemary tea enhances microcirculation to the scalp and promotes hair regrowth. It helps regulate testosterone conversion to DHT, enabling more blood flow to follicles. Those experiencing alopecia, dandruff or excessive shedding may particularly benefit from drinking rosemary tea.
6. Elevates Mood and Focus
Traditional practices use rosemary to uplift mood and enhance cognition. Scientific studies confirm rosemary’s ability to reduce stress and lift depression. Bioactive compounds protect the hippocampus region of the brain involved in memory formation and emotional processing. This is why some also use rosemary for enhanced concentration and productivity.
7. Soothes Menstrual Discomfort
Drinking rosemary tea provides anti-spasmodic relief from painful menstrual cramps and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Compounds like caffeic acid relax smooth muscle contractions in the uterus associated with menstruation. Rosemary also balances female sex hormones linked to PMS mood swings and bloating.
8. Supports Eye Health
Carnosol and rosmarinic acid in rosemary tea defend the eyes against oxidative damage behind age-related vision loss. Regular consumption slows the formation of cataracts and progression of macular degeneration − major causes of blindness. Protecting your eyesight with antioxidant-rich rosemary tea makes good sense.
9. Improves Digestion
For centuries, rosemary tea has been used to prevent indigestion symptoms like bloating, gas and stomach cramps. It relaxes GI smooth muscles while decreasing inflammation in the digestive lining. Interestingly, early research indicates rosemary may also help break down proteins from meat, eggs and dairy to support easier digestion.
10. Protects the Liver
Rosemary guards the liver from fatty infiltration that occurs in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Its anti-inflammatory effects also prevent drug or toxin-induced cell damage to maintain healthy liver tissue. Those with liver conditions should exercise caution and consult their doctor before regularly consuming rosemary tea.
11. Slows Skin Aging
Drinking rosemary tea bolsters skin’s defenses against aging with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Improving circulation and tissue oxygenation helps brighten dull complexions and quicken healing from breakouts or injuries. Apply used tea bags to tired eyes to reduce puffiness and revive radiance.
How to Prepare Rosemary Tea
To enjoy rosemary’s perks, steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried leaves per cup of boiled water for 10-15 minutes. Strain out the loose leaves before drinking to prevent choking hazards. You can incorporate up to 3 cups of rosemary tea into your daily routine. Just be sure to avoid consumption close to bedtime.
For convenience, pre-packaged rosemary tea bags also work well. To enhance flavor, add lemon, raw honey or light sweetener if desired. While rosemary goes nicely with mint or green tea too, avoid pairing it with stimulants like coffee that may cause jitteriness or insomnia.
When is the Best Time to Drink Rosemary Tea?
Research suggests rosemary can interfere with sleep when consumed close to bedtime. Therefore, the ideal time for rosemary tea is between breakfast and 3 pm. Earlier in the day allows you to fully benefit without disrupting sleep quality or grogginess the next morning.
Who Should Avoid Rosemary Tea?
While rosemary tea is safe for most healthy adults, certain groups should exercise caution:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women due to lack of safety studies. Avoid until after nursing.
- Those with bleeding disorders as compounds may prolong clotting times.
- Individuals taking blood thinners, diabetes or hypertension medications due to potential interactive effects.
Talk to your healthcare provider before adding rosemary supplement sources alongside any regular prescriptions. Otherwise, enjoy this aromatic, ancient herb in moderation through teas, marinades and more!