Rosemary extract may reduce memory and attention problems that develop in patients undergoing chemotherapy. This conclusion was reached by researchers from Ain Shams University (Egypt). The results were published in the journal Food & Function (F&F).

In the experiments, scientists induced cognitive impairments in rats using oxaliplatin — an anticancer drug widely used in clinical practice and known for its neurological side effects. The animals were then administered rosemary extract either in a conventional alcoholic form or in nanoparticle form to improve bioavailability.

In both forms, rosemary reduced damage to the hippocampus — the brain region responsible for learning and memory. The extract also mitigated declines in behavior, memory, and concentration ability. Biochemical analysis showed that rosemary restored the antioxidant defense of nervous tissue, reduced inflammation, and suppressed activation of molecular pathways associated with neuronal death. In addition, it activated the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, which is important for maintaining brain structure and function.

Importantly, the researchers noted that rosemary did not reduce the antitumor effectiveness of oxaliplatin, which is particularly significant for potential clinical use.

The authors emphasize that although rosemary has long been used in traditional medicine, this is one of the first studies to demonstrate in detail its neuroprotective potential in the context of chemotherapy. While the findings are currently limited to animal models, they highlight the promise of dietary plants as the basis for supportive therapies aimed at reducing the neurological side effects of cancer treatment.

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