Rosemarinic Acid

functions and usage:

Rosmarinic acid has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities.
The antioxidant activity of rosmarinic acid is stronger than that of vitamin E. Rosmarinic acid helps to prevent cell damage caused by free radicals, thereby reducing the risk for cancer and atherosclerosis.
Rosmarinic acid has anti-inflammatory properties. Perilla, rich in rosmarinic acid, is used for its anti-allergic activity. A study by Sanbongi C and colleagues (Clinical and Experimental Allergy, June 2004) have shown that the oral administration of rosmarinic acid is an effective intervention for allergic asthma. Another study by Youn J and colleagues (Journal of Rheumatology, June 2003) demonstrated that rosmarinic acid suppressed synovitis in mice and that it may be beneficial for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Unlike antihistamines, rosmarinic acid prevents the activation of immune responder cells, which cause swelling and fluid formation.
Rosmarinic acid is also used for food preservation. In Japan the perilla extracts, rich in rosmarinic acid, is used the garnish and improve the shelf life of fresh seafood.
Rosmarinic acid is used to treat peptic ulcers, arthritis, cataract, cancer, rheumatoid arthritis and bronchial asthma.