With so much going on each day, it’s easy for small tasks to slip our minds. However, one study has found that the scent of rosemary can help improve our memory—even more of a reason to surround ourselves with plants!
Researchers at Northumbria University discovered that short-term memory retention increased by 15% among a sample of elderly people in a rosemary-infused room. Other samples in an odorless room and a lavender-infused room underperformed in the same memory tests given to those in the room with rosemary scent.
Dr. Moss, head of the Northumbria University psychology department, stated:
“My working hypothesis is that when you inhale rosemary its compounds are absorbed in the blood through the lungs and then are sent to the brain where they can actually act on your brain chemistry.”
Fifteen percent may seem like a small amount, but researches claim the increase is enough to better remember small tasks that can make a significant difference, such as remembering when to take medication.
Previous studies have found that peppermint is also beneficial for memory function and alertness. Scientists say they still have many more studies to conduct, but this initial research is the first to reveal the positive effects of rosemary on healthy individuals over age 65.
Herbs can certainly freshen up our décor and our meals, but if they can help improve our cognitive functions, that’s all the more reason to grow them in our homes and gardens.
For more information on the benefits of rosemary, watch the video embedded below.
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[Source: GeoBeats News, Huffington Post]
