Compound Monograph
Carnosic acid
Carnosic acid is a phenolic diterpene from rosemary and sage, best known as a potent antioxidant.
Where Does It Come From? (2)
Carnosic acid is a naturally occurring phenolic diterpene, found in Rosemary and Sage. It is well tolerated orally (low toxicity).
Research & Evidence
Carnosic acid is a phenolic diterpene that occurs in rosemary and several sage species, where it is one of the main compounds responsible for the herbs’ antioxidant activity. Rosemary extracts standardised to carnosic acid are used commercially as natural antioxidants to slow the oxidation of fats and oils in foods. It readily oxidises to related compounds such as carnosol, and laboratory research has explored antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, though clinical evidence in humans is limited.
Toxicity & Safety
Carnosic acid is a constituent of common culinary herbs and rosemary antioxidant extracts have a long history of food use, so dietary exposure is generally regarded as safe. A detailed isolated-compound safety or interaction profile has not been well characterised.