In line with recent findings on diacetylated carnosic acid (diAcCA) and its neuroprotective benefits, this study evaluated the cognitive effects of rosemary and spearmint extracts—standardized to carnosic acid and rosmarinic acid, respectively—in the SAMP8 mouse model of accelerated aging. After 90 days of supplementation, rosemary extract containing 60% carnosic acid significantly improved learning and memory across multiple behavioural tests, while the 10% carnosic acid rosemary and 5% rosmarinic acid spearmint extracts also showed memory-enhancing effects. All three extracts reduced markers of oxidative stress in the brain, suggesting that antioxidant-rich botanicals can help mitigate age-related cognitive decline.
These findings build on a growing body of research, including the referenced study, which demonstrated that long-term supplementation with rosemary and spearmint extracts improved memory in aged mice. Together, the results highlight the therapeutic potential of plant-based antioxidants—particularly carnosic and rosmarinic acids—for supporting brain health and addressing oxidative damage associated with aging.
Reference: Farr, S.A., M.L. Niehoff, M.A. Ceddia, K.A. Herrlinger, B.J. Lewis, S. Feng, A. Welleford, D.A. Butterfield, and J.E. Morley. “Effect of botanical extracts containing carnosic acid or rosmarinic acid on learning and memory in SAMP8 mice.” Physiology & Behavior, Vol. 165 (2016): 328–338. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27527000/