in

Spearmint and Rosemary Extracts Improve Memory

Spearmint PlantThe antioxidants in spearmint and rosemary extracts can improve learning and memory and may potentially with the cognitive decline related to age, says a new study presented at Neuroscience 2013, a meeting hosted by the Society for Neuroscience.

Professor Susan Farr of the Louis University School of Medicine in Missouri recently tested the effects of new enhanced antioxidant-based extracts made from spearmint and rosemary on mice.

Farr discovered that higher doses of rosemary extract proved most successful in improving memory and learning in three tested behaviors. However, doses of spearmint extract and lower doses of rosemary extract also improved memory in two of the behavioral tests.

After looking at the brains of the mice in the study, Farr attributed the improvement in memory to reduced oxidative stress. Rosemary and spearmint are both rich sources of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

However, Farr does not recommend binging on spearmint or rosemary as a way to compact age-related cognitive decline just yet:

“This probably means eating spearmint and rosemary is good for you. However, our experiments were in an animal model and I don’t know how much – or if any amount – of these herbs people would have to consume for learning and memory to improve. In other words, I’m not suggesting that people chew more gum at this point.”

Previous studies have shown benefits for both rosemary and spearmint. A 2012 study suggested that rosemary oil may boost brain performance. A 2010 study discovered that adding rosemary extract to beef while cooking to reduce cancer-causing agents that can form during cooking.

In concluding her findings, Farr stated:

“Our research suggests these extracts made from herbs might have beneficial effects on altering the course of age-associated cognitive decline.”

Additional research should be conducted for further understanding on a possible link between spearmint and rosemary extracts and improved memory amid age-related cognitive decline.

References

Can Certain Herbs Stave Off Alzheimer’s Disease?: http://www.newswise.com/articles/can-certain-herbs-stave-off-alzheimer-s-disease
Study: Spearmint and Rosemary Extracts Improve Memory in Mice: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/268884.php

Image Credits

Spearmint Plant: http://www.freeimages.com/photo/1424593

The Prepositional Phrase Modifier in English Grammar

The Prepositional Phrase Modifier in English Grammar

Child Cuddling with Puppy

Consistent Sleep Patterns Linked to Healthier Weight