UNLOCKING THE ADAPTOGENIC POWER OF ROSEMARY (ROSMARINUS OFFICINALIS): A COMPREHENSIVE EXPLORATION OF ITS PHARMACOLOGICAL POTENTIAL FOR STRESS RESILIENCE AND HOLISTIC WELL-BEING

Rosmarinic acid, a key component of Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), holds significant promise as an adaptogen in herbal medicine, offering a natural remedy to counteract stress’s wide-ranging impacts on health. This abstract explores rosmarinic acid’s pharmacological activities, emphasizing its modulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, regulation of neurotransmitters, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, and enhancement of mitochondrial function. Integrating insights from traditional medicine like Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), alongside modern scientific validation, highlights Rosemary’s evolution from culinary herb to medicinal powerhouse. Structurally, rosmarinic acid’s stability, facilitated by its ester-bonded dual phenolic rings, supports its therapeutic efficacy. Experimental studies underscore its ability to reduce cortisol levels, bolster stress resilience, stabilize mood, and enhance cognitive function by influencing neurotransmitter systems. Moreover, its robust antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, validated across in vitro, animal models, and clinical trials, suggest potential applications in preventing oxidative stress and inflammation-linked diseases. By promoting mitochondrial biogenesis and activating the AMPK pathway, rosmarinic acid enhances cellular energy production, further fortifying resilience to stressors. In summary, rosmarinic acid emerges as a versatile compound, offering holistic health benefits and promising avenues for botanical interventions in stress-related disorders and age-associated ailments, warranting continued exploration into its therapeutic mechanisms and applications.