It is very important to have a healthy lifestyle to keep the brain strong. The effect on the brain will be as per your diet and lifestyle. Some herbs and plants also play a very important role in making the brain healthy. Rosemary is one of them which are not only an aromatic plant but also a medicinal herb which is very beneficial in sharpening the memory power.

Rosemary is an aromatic-medicinal evergreen shrub known for its needle-like leaves and double-lipped flowers ranging from purple-blue to white. Rosemary flowers are edible and are used in many recipes to add flavor and aroma to food. Rosemary grows best in warm and humid conditions. It needs full sunlight and well-drained soil. This plant is not only decorative but is also very useful in terms of health, taste and aroma.

According to scientific studies, if you smell the fragrance of Rosemary, it boosts brain power. Just by smelling Rosemary, a person's memory power can improve by 60% to 75%. This effect is due to a chemical element 1,8-Cineole present in the fragrance of Rosemary, which prevents the slow breakdown of Acetylcholine, an essential neurochemical of the brain. This chemical affects our memory, concentration and thinking ability. Rosemary not only improves memory but also cures many mental health problems like Alzheimer's, anxiety, depression. The brain feels completely fresh because all the toxins are removed.

Many types of studies have also been done on this. According to the study of researchers from Northumbria University, UK, they kept the participants in a room with the fragrance of rosemary oil and then tested their mental ability. The participants were divided into two groups. One group was kept in a room with the fragrance of rosemary oil, the other in a room without any fragrance. Both groups were given the same mental tests (such as memory ability, counting, remembering words, etc.). The group with the fragrance of rosemary performed 75% better.

The element 1,8-Cineole present in rosemary inhibits the action of acetylcholinesterase enzyme present in the brain. This enzyme breaks down a neurotransmitter called Acetylcholine, which helps in increasing memory and thinking ability. When Acetylcholine remains active for a longer period of time, the brain works faster and memory improves.

Acetylcholine is an important neurotransmitter (messenger chemical) of the brain. It helps in smooth communication between the brain and the nervous system. Its main functions are memory, attention and concentration, learning ability, muscle movement etc. When 1,8-Cineole of rosemary inhibits this enzyme, Acetylcholine remains for a longer time and is more effective, which increases memory and concentration of the brain. It can also prove useful in diseases like Alzheimer's and Dementia (possibilities have been reported in some studies).

Put rosemary essential oil in an aromatherapy diffuser.

Place a small rosemary plant on the study table.

Smell the fragrance of rosemary deeply every morning for 2-3 minutes.

Use it before an exam or important work. Many people make tea from these flowers and drink it or apply rosemary aroma oil on the head and do a light massage, however, do not forget to take expert advice before using any oil.

Caution: Do not apply rosemary oil directly on the skin without diluting it. Pregnant women, people with high blood pressure or epilepsy patients should use it only after consulting a doctor.

Disclaimer: A natural fragrance can also enhance the functioning of our brain in a wonderful way. Rosemary is not only a medicinal plant but it can also help in improving your memory in a natural way, but do not use the oil of this plant on your own without asking an expert.

PC:Punjab Kesari