Rosemary: A Kitchen Cabinet Cancer-Fighter

by Kelley Herring

Most gourmands would agree with the old adage “spice is nice”. And now scientists do, too.

Inside your kitchen cabinet there are probably dozens of spices and herbs you should be using more liberally…and more often. Rosemary is one of them.

Recent research published in Oncology Reports found that rosemary has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to protect cells from oxidative damage. What’s more, the piney spice showed strong cancer-fighting activity against human leukemia and breast cancer cell lines.

Because rosemary is so effective at inhibiting oxidation, you’ll begin to see it listed as a natural preservative (called Vitiva) in some of your favorite foods. In the meantime, add this “herb of remembrance” to marinades, salad dressings and teas to boost the flavor and antioxidant value of your foods.