Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) is a perennial aromatic herb belonging to the Lamiaceae family. Native to Europe and the Mediterranean coast of North Africa, it thrives in warm, humid environments. Thanks to its outstanding antioxidant activity, rosemary has become a highly sought-after natural plant-based ingredient globally.

Market Trends

According to FMI market data, the combined market value for rosemary and mixed-tocopherol antioxidants is projected to reach $460 million by 2025. By market segment, rosemary extract is expected to hold the largest share (46%) of the antioxidant ingredient category by 2026, while the food and beverage sector dominates the application market with a 39% share.

Core Products

① Rosemary Extract

Regarded as the "king of plant-based antioxidants," rosemary extract contains key active ingredients such as the oil-soluble carnosic acid and carnosol, as well as the water-soluble rosmarinic acid and ursolic acid. These active substances exert physiological effects by efficiently scavenging peroxy radicals.

• High-temperature resistance and stable physicochemical properties

• Naturally extends product shelf life

• Offers dual benefits: antimicrobial action and color preservation

② Rosemary Carnosic Acid Oil

Rosemary carnosic acid oil is a standardized, oil-soluble antioxidant product produced by extracting carnosic acid from rosemary leaves and blending it with a food-grade carrier oil. Its core active ingredients are phenolic antioxidants such as carnosic acid and carnosol. It is widely used in edible oils and fats, high-oil sauces, and oil-based seasoning formulations.

• Excellent oil solubility and dispersibility

• High-temperature stability and outstanding antioxidant performance

• Standardized concentration, facilitating accurate weighing and quantitative addition during formulation

Key Benefits

① Antioxidant Activity

Phenolic compounds in rosemary are the primary source of its antioxidant power. Research indicates that rosmarinic acid scavenges nitrogen and oxygen free radicals via multiple pathways, reduces the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the body, and boosts endogenous glutathione levels. Meanwhile, carnosic acid and ursolic acid neutralize free radicals, mitigate cellular oxidative damage caused by ROS, and help delay the aging process.

② Mood Relief

Studies have shown that rosmarinic acid and terpenoids can regulate neurotransmitter levels and inhibit neuronal hyperexcitability. Additionally, through neuro-antioxidant effects, they alleviate oxidative stress-induced damage to nerve cells, experimental results demonstrate potential benefits in soothing the nervous system and alleviating mental fatigue.

Application Areas

• Food Preservation: Used as a natural antioxidant in nuts, meat products, baked goods, and ready-to-cook meals to inhibit lipid oxidation and extend shelf life.

• Flavoring & Seasoning: Commonly used in compound seasonings, flavored oils, marinades, and sauces to impart herbal notes and enrich flavor profiles.

• Functional Foods & Beverages: Suitable for dietary supplements, powdered drink mixes, and herbal pressed candies, supporting antioxidant health and mood balance.

• Cosmetics & Skincare: Incorporated into anti-aging, repair, and sun-care products to effectively mitigate skin oxidative damage caused by environmental stressors.

• Animal Nutrition: Used as an ingredient in livestock/poultry feed and pet nutrition products to alleviate oxidative stress in animals and ensure feed stability.

About Us

Naturalin Agricultural is a professional manufacturer of plant extracts and a provider of natural ingredient solutions. With over a decade of expertise, we hold an invention patent for "Rosemary Extract" and have developed a diverse range of rosemary-based products, including water-soluble rosmarinic acid, oil-soluble carnosic acid, personal care-grade rosemary essential oil, and pharmaceutical-grade ursolic acid, all designed to meet the formulation needs of clients across various industries. Contact us today!

References:

[1] Zhang Wencheng, Zhang Haitao, Zheng Renjuan, Liu Ling. Extraction and composition analysis of rosemary essential oil and antioxidants [J]. Lishizhen Medicine and Materia Medica Research, 2011, 22(11): 2723-2725.

[2] Zeng Fajiao, Zhou Xiaoling, Wang Bin, et al. Research progress on the antibacterial activity of rosemary extracts and their active components [J]. Hunan Agricultural Sciences, 2023(7): 110-114.

[3] Wang Hui, Liu Gangqiang, Li Tianyou, et al. Research progress on the chemical constituents and applications of rosemary [J]. Food Science, 2024, 45(20): 24-34.