Packed with benefits, rosemary is an effective natural preservative
The smell is unmistakable and the benefits are varied, but few people know about the preservative properties of rosemary
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Rosemary is a plant native to the Mediterranean region, in Europe, and well known and used since ancient times. Its main use is medicinal and culinary, being used both in its natural form, liquid (teas and hydrolates) in powder and as an essential oil. Among its main features are the calming effect, the benefits to memory, the fact that it is a tasty spice and, of course, the pleasant and unmistakable aroma. But did you know that among the many benefits of rosemary, it can also be used as a natural preservative?
Conservative properties
Among the chemical compounds present in rosemary are tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids, rosmarinic acid, carnosic acid and carnosol.
Rosmarinic acid, carnosic acid and carnosol are molecules of the terpene class with great antioxidant action. When present in foods or cosmetics, such molecules protect the product, preventing it from reacting with air and thus oxidize - when oxidation occurs, the item's texture, color and flavor change its characteristics.
Research carried out with rosemary extract showed an antimicrobial action. When tested against two types of bacteria, the rosemary extract demonstrated an antimicrobial effect against one of the types, the gram-negative bacteria. Because it has an antimicrobial effect, it is possible that, when used in food and cosmetics, rosemary contributes to conservation, killing or inhibiting bacteria and thus preventing the food or cosmetics from spoiling.
Use of rosemary as a preservative
cosmetics
Among its many benefits, rosemary powder can be used as a natural preservative for cosmetics. The amount needed depends on the type of cosmetic and the user's desire for the rosemary aroma to interfere with the item. For oils, 0.5 gram of rosemary powder is enough for one kilogram of oil. You can purchase rosemary powder at our shop, take a look.
Foods
In addition to providing a pleasant aroma and flavor, rosemary can be used pure as a seasoning and food preservative. The amount also varies according to the cook's taste and can make your dish last a few more days in the fridge without spoiling.
