# Rosmarinic Acid (Phenolic Acid) **Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/rosmarinic-acid **Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia **Updated:** 2026-03-19 **Evidence Score:** 6 / 10 **Category:** Compound **Also Known As:** (R)-α-{[(E)-3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-2-propenyl]oxy}-3,4-dihydroxybenzeneacetic acid, RA, Rosmarinate, Caffeic acid ester, α-O-caffeoyl-3,4-dihydroxyphenyllactic acid, Labiatae acid, Mint phenolic acid ## Overview Rosmarinic acid is a polyphenolic compound found in herbs like rosemary and basil that exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This phenolic acid works by scavenging [free radical](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)s and modulating [inflammatory pathway](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s, though human clinical evidence remains limited. ## Health Benefits • No clinical health benefits documented - research dossier lacks human trial data • No therapeutic effects verified - absence of RCTs or meta-analyses in provided research • No mechanism of action established - biochemical pathways not described in research • No traditional uses documented - historical context missing from research • No safety profile established - contraindications and interactions not studied ## Mechanism of Action Rosmarinic acid functions as a potent antioxidant by donating hydrogen atoms to neutralize [free radical](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)s and chelating metal ions. It inhibits pro-[inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) enzymes including cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase, while suppressing nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) activation. The compound also modulates complement cascade activation and reduces histamine release from mast cells. ## Clinical Summary Current research on rosmarinic acid consists primarily of in vitro and animal studies, with limited human clinical trials available. Laboratory studies demonstrate antioxidant capacity and [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects, while animal models suggest potential benefits for allergic responses and [oxidative stress](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant). The lack of robust randomized controlled trials in humans limits definitive conclusions about therapeutic efficacy. Existing evidence suggests promise but requires further clinical validation. ## Nutritional Profile Rosmarinic acid is a phenolic acid ester compound (not a macronutrient or food in itself) with molecular formula C18H16O8 and molecular weight of 360.31 g/mol. It is a secondary plant metabolite found as a bioactive constituent in numerous herbs: rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) contains approximately 0.2–3.0% rosmarinic acid by dry weight; lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) contains 0.5–4.0% dry weight; basil (Ocimum basilicum) contains 0.05–1.0% dry weight; sage (Salvia officinalis) contains 0.1–3.5% dry weight; peppermint (Mentha piperita) contains approximately 0.5–2.0% dry weight. Structurally, it is an ester of caffeic acid and 3,4-dihydroxyphenyllactic acid, both of which are also phenolic acids. It contains no macronutrients, dietary fiber, vitamins, or minerals intrinsically. As a polyphenol, it exhibits strong [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) capacity, with a Trolox Equivalent Antioxidant Capacity (TEAC) reported at approximately 4.0–5.0 μmol Trolox/μmol compound in vitro. Oral bioavailability is relatively low and variable; studies indicate absorption rates of roughly 10–25% in humans, with peak plasma concentrations occurring 30–90 minutes post-ingestion. It undergoes extensive phase II [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) (methylation, glucuronidation, sulfation) in intestinal epithelium and liver. Typical supplemental doses studied range from 50–500 mg/day; dietary intake from herb consumption is generally 5–50 mg per serving of herb-rich foods. ## Dosage & Preparation No clinically studied dosage ranges are available in the research. No information on forms (extract, powder, standardized) or standardization details provided. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement. ## Safety & Drug Interactions Rosmarinic acid appears generally well-tolerated when consumed through food sources, with no significant adverse effects reported in available studies. Potential interactions with anticoagulant medications may occur due to possible blood-thinning effects, though this requires clinical verification. Safety data for supplemental doses during pregnancy and lactation is insufficient. Individuals with bleeding disorders should exercise caution when considering rosmarinic acid supplementation. ## Scientific Research The research dossier contains no clinical trials, RCTs, or meta-analyses for rosmarinic acid. No PubMed PMIDs, study designs, sample sizes, or clinical outcomes are available in the provided research. ## Historical & Cultural Context The research dossier provides no information on traditional medicine systems, historical uses, or duration of use for rosmarinic acid. Traditional context is entirely absent from the available research. ## Synergistic Combinations Insufficient research to determine synergistic compounds ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What foods contain rosmarinic acid naturally? Rosmarinic acid is abundant in culinary herbs including rosemary, basil, oregano, sage, and thyme. Perilla leaves and lemon balm also contain significant concentrations, with rosemary typically providing the highest levels at 1.5-2.5% dry weight. ### How much rosmarinic acid should I take daily? No established recommended dosage exists for rosmarinic acid supplements due to limited human clinical trials. Studies have used varying doses from 50-200mg daily, but optimal therapeutic dosing remains undetermined and requires further research. ### Does rosmarinic acid help with allergies? Animal studies suggest rosmarinic acid may reduce allergic responses by inhibiting histamine release and complement activation. However, human clinical trials are needed to confirm anti-allergic effects and establish effective dosing protocols. ### Can rosmarinic acid interact with blood thinners? Rosmarinic acid may theoretically enhance anticoagulant effects due to its influence on platelet function, though clinical interactions are not well-documented. Patients taking warfarin or other blood thinners should consult healthcare providers before supplementation. ### Is rosmarinic acid the same as rosemary extract? Rosmarinic acid is one active compound found in rosemary extract, but rosemary contains multiple bioactive compounds including carnosic acid and carnosol. Standardized rosmarinic acid supplements provide specific concentrations, while whole rosemary extracts offer broader phytochemical profiles. ### What is the difference between rosmarinic acid and other phenolic acids found in herbs? Rosmarinic acid is a phenolic compound unique to certain aromatic plants like rosemary, oregano, and sage, distinguished by its diphenolic ester structure. Unlike other phenolic acids such as caffeic or ferulic acid, rosmarinic acid is formed through the esterification of caffeic acid with 3,4-dihydroxyphenyllactic acid, giving it a distinct chemical profile. This structural difference may affect how it behaves in the body, though direct comparative studies in humans are limited. ### Is rosmarinic acid safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding? Current safety data on rosmarinic acid specifically during pregnancy and breastfeeding is insufficient, as human clinical trials have not been conducted in these populations. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before taking supplements containing rosmarinic acid, as general herbal supplement guidance recommends caution without established safety evidence. High-dose rosemary products have traditionally been avoided during pregnancy, though the specific implications for isolated rosmarinic acid remain unclear. ### What affects the absorption and bioavailability of rosmarinic acid? Rosmarinic acid absorption in the human body has not been thoroughly characterized in controlled clinical studies, limiting understanding of bioavailability factors. Preliminary research suggests it may undergo metabolic transformation by gut microbiota and hepatic enzymes, though the extent and efficiency of this process in humans remain unknown. Factors such as food matrix, individual microbiome composition, and supplement form (extract type, concentration) could theoretically influence absorption, but evidence-based data is currently unavailable. --- *Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com* *License: CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 — Attribution required. Commercial use: admin@hermeticasuperfoods.com*