Rosmarinic acid is found in a variety of plants including rosemary, basil, sage, mint and Perilla frutescens.
Laboratory research has found evidence that rosmarinic acid could reduce allergic reactions.
A clinical trial was conducted to determine if an extract of Perilla frutescens high in rosmarinic acid can reduce symptoms of seasonal allergies.
The results were published in the journal of Experimental Biology and Medicine.
Here are the study details
– Study design: Double blind randomized placebo controlled clinical trial.
Here are some other clinical trials testing natural plant medicine for infections including UTIs and colds.
– Study agent: 10 patients received 200 mg of rosmarinic acid, 9 patients received 50 mg of rosmarinic acid, and 10 patients received placebo.
– Rosmarinic acid tablets were taken after breakfast.
Here are the results
– Rosmarinic acid reduced itchy nose, watery eyes, and itchy eyes on day 3 and continued to day 21 (*statistically significant for rosmarinic acid 50 mg and 200 mg compared to placebo.)
– Rosmarinic acid reduced nueotrophils and polymorphonuclear luckeocytes (PMNL) in nasal fluid.
– No adverse events were observed including changes in complete blood counts, liver and kidney function.
Read here about clinical research with plant medicine to reduce inflammation
Here is what the authors had to say
In conclusion, extract of Perilla frutescens enriched for rosmarinic acid can be an effective intervention for patients with mild SAR that may act through inhibition of PMNL dependent inflammation. The present preliminary study provides clinical evidence that this alternative treatment for seasonal allergic rhinoconjunctivitis might reduce treatment costs for allergic diseases.
Take away message
The results of this study suggest that rosmarinic acid can reduce symptoms of allergies including an itchy nose, itchy eyes, and watery eyes in as little as 3 days.
There is also evidence that rosmarinic acid can reduce inflammation associated with allergies.
A dose as low as 50 mg rosmarinic acid may help support those experiencing allergy symptoms.
Reference
Takano et al. Extract of Perilla frutescens enriched for rosmarinic acid, a polyphenolic phytochemical, inhibits seasonal allergic rhinoconjunctivitis in humans. Experimental Biology and Medicine. 2004; Volume 229 (Issue 3): pages 247-54.
His research on plant medicine has led to more than 45 publications and abstracts.This research has been presented at international meetings in the USA, France, Turkey, Peru, Israel, Austria, and Italy.
Categories: Allergies, Clinical Trials, Inflammation
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