Carnosic acid is a phytochemical found in rosemary and sage that acts as an antioxidant, inhibiting free radicals in the brain, improving nerve function, aiding weight control, and increasing blood flow. It may also help prevent thickening of arterial walls and is available in herbal supplements.
Carnosic acid is a phytochemical, sometimes referred to as benzenediol abiethan diterpene, a natural disease-fighting compound found in certain plants. The common herbs rosemary and sage contain it. Experts regard the substance as an antioxidant and believe that it inhibits the activity of disease-causing free radicals, especially in the brain. It might also have other health benefits, such as improving nerve function, helping with weight control, and increasing blood flow.
Scientists recognize carnosic acid as a beneficial phytochemical. Basically, phytochemicals are natural substances produced by plants. While the human body does not need them to survive, studies have shown that they have certain disease-fighting abilities. Rosemary, a fragrant herb used in cooking, has high amounts of carnosic acid. Sage, another common herb, also contains the compound, though to a lesser extent than rosemary.
Renowned as an antioxidant, carnosic acid’s most notable benefit is its ability to protect against free radicals in the brain. The action of free radicals in the body gives rise to a number of diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. In short, a free radical is an atom that has an odd number of electrons, leaving one of them unpaired. Consequently, the atom snatches an electron from another atom to match its odd electron, making the second atom a free radical as well. This process continues, causing a destructive chain reaction at the molecular level, which ultimately damages the cells.
Due to its antioxidant abilities, carnosic acid inhibits free radicals before they can cause damage. Additionally, studies have shown that the acid targets free radicals that affect the brain, thus protecting cells that might otherwise be affected. Furthermore, experts believe that the compound also helps increase blood flow to the brain and therefore increases brain function.
In addition to the antioxidant benefits of carnosic acid, many believe it also helps with weight management. Studies have shown that the acid inhibits the digestion of fats in the stomach. This, in turn, makes a person feel fuller for a longer period of time. Due to this fact, people find the acid to be an effective appetite suppressant, helping them lose weight.
There are some indications that carnosic acid also helps stimulate growth and nerve function. Consequently, some people believe that it is useful in the treatment of disorders that affect the central nervous system. Additionally, some studies suggest that carnosic acid also helps prevent thickening of the arterial walls. This, in turn, increases blood flow and helps prevent diseases caused by constricted arteries.
While rosemary and sage are natural sources of this particular acid, a person would likely need to consume large amounts of these herbs on a regular basis to enjoy their full health benefits. As a result, many turn to herbal supplements that contain a powdered form of the acid. These supplements are generally available from specialty stores or from online stores.
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