Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) has a long tradition of use in herbal medicine, primarily for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In recent years, scientific interest has grown in examining rosemary’s potential as a complementary therapy in cancer treatment. Laboratory and animal studies have identified several bioactive compounds in rosemary, such as carnosic acid, carnosol, and rosmarinic acid, which exhibit anti-cancer activities. These compounds have demonstrated the ability to inhibit cancer cell proliferation, induce apoptosis (programmed cell death), and suppress tumor growth in various cancer cell lines, including breast, colon, prostate, and leukemia.

Additionally, rosemary’s antioxidants may protect healthy cells from DNA damage caused by oxidative stress, a factor implicated in cancer development. Some studies also suggest rosemary extracts can enhance the efficacy of certain chemotherapy agents, potentially by sensitizing cancer cells to drug-induced apoptosis and reducing drug resistance.

However, the scientific evidence supporting rosemary’s use against cancer is rated at 2/5, meaning most research is preclinical (in vitro or animal studies), with limited human clinical trials. There is not yet sufficient evidence to recommend rosemary as a standalone or primary cancer therapy. Instead, it may be considered as a supportive or adjunctive natural therapy under medical supervision. More robust human studies are needed to confirm its safety, efficacy, and optimal use in cancer care.