Rosemary's scent may sharpen your memory

That familiar scent of rosemary might do more than flavor your food; it could actually boost your brainpower. A key compound in rosemary, 1,8-cineole, is believed to enhance memory. In a 2012 study, participants who smelled rosemary essential oil showed improved speed and accuracy on memory tasks. This effect is thought to come from cineole increasing a brain chemical called acetylcholine, similar to how some Alzheimer's medications work. This ancient herb, once used by Greek scholars for exams, offers a simple, natural way to potentially improve focus and recall.