Latest news with #DipaKamdar
Hindustan Times
10-06-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
The many benefits of rosemary: Secret to brain health is hiding in your kitchen
Rosemary, the aromatic herb native to the Mediterranean, has long been a staple in kitchens around the world. However, a recent study led by Dipa Kamdar from Kingston University reveals that rosemary's benefits go far beyond its culinary appeal. This powerful herb plays a vital role in supporting brain health, reducing inflammation, and enhancing immune function. Also read | Looking for hair growth solution? Try rosemary oil; doctor reveals this simple herb oil is the go-to for thicker hair According to multiple studies, rosemary has been associated with healthy brain function. One study associated rosemary to decreased risk of Alzheimer's. According to a study conducted by the researchers at Northumbria University, participants who inhaled rosemary's scent performed better in memory tasks than the ones who performed the same tasks in an unscented environment. Even historically, rosemary had been associated with better brain functioning. It is believed that in ancient Greece and Rome, students used rosemary to improve concentration and memory. Also read | Super herb: Benefits of rosemary water for great hair Blood circulation: Rosemary helps in stimulating blood circulation in the brain, which helps in delivering more blood and nutrients that can improve mental clarity. Calming properties: The aroma of rosemary is believed to have calming properties that can help in reducing anxiety and stress. It also helps in inducing better sleep. Lower stress can help in better memory retention and clarity. Antioxidants: Oxidative stress can cause damage to brain cells, that can affe4ct cognitive functioning. Rosemary is packed with antioxidants that can prevent this process. Also read | Habits that damage your brain health: Modern lifestyle routines you need to stop immediately Health-enhancing effects: Rosemary is loaded with carnosic acid, an antioxidant and an anti-inflammatory agent that helps in shielding brain cells from harm. Beyond brain health: rosemary's health effects go beyond the brain. It also helps in easing digestion, relieving bloating and reducing inflammation. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Scottish Sun
09-06-2025
- Health
- Scottish Sun
The 52p herb that could help prevent Alzheimer's – plus 3 other ways it can benefit your health
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) KNOWN for its strong, pine-like flavour and its use in various dishes, rosemary has a lot more going for it than its scent and taste. The popular herb is starting to gain recognition for its impressive health benefits, especially when it comes to brain health, inflammation and immune function. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 2 Rosemary has been shown to benefit the brain in several ways Credit: Getty And research published this year suggests it could even help in the fight against Alzheimer's disease - the leading cause of dementia worldwide. Rosemary has previously been linked to memory and mental clarity. In ancient Greece and Rome, students and scholars used rosemary to sharpen concentration and recall, says Dipa Kamdar, senior lecturer in pharmacy practice at Kingston University. Writing for The Conversation, she explains: "Modern science is finding there may have been something in this: in one study, people who inhaled rosemary's scent performed better on memory takes compared to those in an unscented environment." There are several ways rosemary benefits the brain, says Kamdar. Firstly, it stimulates blood circulation, including to the brain, helping deliver more oxygen and nutrients, which may improve mental clarity. It also has calming properties, with some studies suggesting its aroma can reduce anxiety and improve sleep - lower stress means better focus and memory retention. Kamdar adds: "Rosemary contains compounds that interact with the brain's neurotransmitters. One such compound, 1,8-cineole, helps prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine, a brain chemical essential for learning and memory. By preserving acetylcholine, rosemary may help support cognitive performance, especially as we age." And rosemary's antioxidants may also help protect brain cells from damage caused by oxidative stress - which is a major factor in cognitive decline. Kamdar says: " Rosemary is rich in phytochemicals, plant compounds with health-enhancing effects. One of the most powerful is carnosic acid, an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent that helps shield brain cells from harm, particularly from the kinds of damage linked to Alzheimer's disease." Five simple tests that could indicate dementia What are rosemary's benefits beyond brain health? 2 Rosemary may aid digestion by stimulating the liver to produce bile Credit: Getty As well as boosting brain health, studies suggest rosemary may aid digestion by stimulating the liver to produce bile, which helps the body digest fat. In a study with mice, it was shown to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, potentially aiding in the management of IBS and other inflammatory bowel ailments. And rosemary supplementation may also positively impact the gut microbiota, increasing beneficial bacteria like Bifidobacterium and Bacteroidetes, while reducing harmful bacteria like Escherichia coli. Rosemary may also be able to improve immune function. Some studies, particularly in vitro and animal models, suggest that rosemary and its active compounds, like carnosic acid and rosmarinic acid, can influence immune function. Other studies have shown rosemary may promote immune cell activity, such as increasing antibody production or enhancing the activity of immune cells like dendritic cells. Finally, rosemary could prevent certain cancers. Rosemary has been proven to display powerful anticancer efficacy in numerous cancers, including lung, prostate, liver, and breast. Carnosic acid appears to be the plant's primary anticancer component, as it was found in one study to exhibit antiproliferative effects in cancer cells.
The Sun
09-06-2025
- Health
- The Sun
The 52p herb that could help prevent Alzheimer's – plus 3 other ways it can benefit your health
KNOWN for its strong, pine-like flavour and its use in various dishes, rosemary has a lot more going for it than its scent and taste. The popular herb is starting to gain recognition for its impressive health benefits, especially when it comes to brain health, inflammation and immune function. And research published this year suggests it could even help in the fight against Alzheimer's disease - the leading cause of dementia worldwide. Rosemary has previously been linked to memory and mental clarity. In ancient Greece and Rome, students and scholars used rosemary to sharpen concentration and recall, says Dipa Kamdar, senior lecturer in pharmacy practice at Kingston University. Writing for The Conversation, she explains: "Modern science is finding there may have been something in this: in one study, people who inhaled rosemary's scent performed better on memory takes compared to those in an unscented environment." There are several ways rosemary benefits the brain, says Kamdar. Firstly, it stimulates blood circulation, including to the brain, helping deliver more oxygen and nutrients, which may improve mental clarity. It also has calming properties, with some studies suggesting its aroma can reduce anxiety and improve sleep - lower stress means better focus and memory retention. Kamdar adds: "Rosemary contains compounds that interact with the brain's neurotransmitters. One such compound, 1,8-cineole, helps prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine, a brain chemical essential for learning and memory. By preserving acetylcholine, rosemary may help support cognitive performance, especially as we age." And rosemary's antioxidants may also help protect brain cells from damage caused by oxidative stress - which is a major factor in cognitive decline. Kamdar says: " Rosemary is rich in phytochemicals, plant compounds with health-enhancing effects. One of the most powerful is carnosic acid, an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent that helps shield brain cells from harm, particularly from the kinds of damage linked to Alzheimer's disease." Five simple tests that could indicate dementia What are rosemary's benefits beyond brain health? 2 As well as boosting brain health, studies suggest rosemary may aid digestion by stimulating the liver to produce bile, which helps the body digest fat. In a study with mice, it was shown to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, potentially aiding in the management of IBS and other inflammatory bowel ailments. And rosemary supplementation may also positively impact the gut microbiota, increasing beneficial bacteria like Bifidobacterium and Bacteroidetes, while reducing harmful bacteria like Escherichia coli. Rosemary may also be able to improve immune function. Some studies, particularly in vitro and animal models, suggest that rosemary and its active compounds, like carnosic acid and rosmarinic acid, can influence immune function. Other studies have shown rosemary may promote immune cell activity, such as increasing antibody production or enhancing the activity of immune cells like dendritic cells. Finally, rosemary could prevent certain cancers. lung, prostate, liver, and breast. Carnosic acid appears to be the plant's primary anticancer component, as it was found in one study to exhibit antiproliferative effects in cancer cells. Compared to speciality herbs or spices, rosemary is considered a relatively affordable herb - just 52p for a 20g packet from Sainsbury's. Other ways to reduce your Alzheimer's risk Be physically active Regular physical activity is crucial for overall health and may help reduce the risk of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week. Eat a healthy diet A balanced diet, potentially including the Mediterranean diet, can help reduce your risk of dementia, as well as other health conditions. Stay mentally active Keeping your mind active can strengthen your brain's ability to cope with disease. Engage in activities like reading, learning new skills, or playing brain games. Manage other health conditions Maintaining healthy blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels can also contribute to reducing your risk of dementia. Prioritise sleep Aim for seven to eight hours of quality sleep each night, as sleep deprivation can negatively impact brain health. Maintain good heart health Taking care of your heart health, including avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, can also lower your risk of dementia and other diseases. Seek medical advice If you have any concerns about your health or a family history of Alzheimer's, consult with a healthcare professional.
Daily Mirror
08-06-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Common Sunday Dinner herb fights dementia, diabetes, heart disease and eczema
Many of us will be adding it to our Sunday Roast with meat, potatoes and carrots A herb popular in UK dishes and often served at Sunday Dinner has been linked to better brain health, reduced inflammation and improved immune function. Research suggests rosemary may even be able to help in the fight against Alzheimer's disease, the leading cause of dementia worldwide. Rosemary is often served with lamb and added to roast potatoes and carrots on Sundays. It is also a staple herb in Mediterranean meals. In one study, people who breathed in rosemary's scent performed better on memory tasks compared to those in an unscented environment. Dipa Kamdar, Senior Lecturer in Pharmacy Practice at Kingston University, said: " There are several mechanisms at play. For starters, rosemary stimulates blood circulation, including to the brain, helping deliver more oxygen and nutrients, which may improve mental clarity. It also has calming properties; some studies suggest its aroma can reduce anxiety and improve sleep. Lower stress can mean better focus and memory retention. "Rosemary contains compounds that interact with the brain's neurotransmitters. One such compound, 1,8-cineole, helps prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine, a brain chemical essential for learning and memory. By preserving acetylcholine, rosemary may help support cognitive performance, especially as we age." She added: " Rosemary is packed with antioxidants, which help protect brain cells from damage caused by oxidative stress – a major factor in cognitive decline. Rosemary is rich in phytochemicals, plant compounds with health-enhancing effects. One of the most powerful is carnosic acid, an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent that helps shield brain cells from harm, particularly from the kinds of damage linked to Alzheimer's disease." In a study this year. scientists found a version of carnosic acid appeared to improve memory, boosted the number of synapses (the connections between brain cells), and reduced harmful Alzheimer's related proteins like amyloid-beta and tau. The same compound could be used to treat type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and Parkinson's disease. Dipa told The Conversation: " Rosemary's benefits could extend well beyond the brain. It's been used traditionally to ease digestion, relieve bloating and reduce inflammation. Compounds like rosmarinic acid and ursolic acid are known for their anti-inflammatory effects throughout the body. Rosemary may even benefit the skin – a review suggests it can help soothe acne and eczema, while carnosic acid may offer anti-ageing benefits by protecting skin from sun damage. " Rosemary oil also has antimicrobial properties, showing promise in food preservation and potential pharmaceutical applications by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungi. For most people, rosemary is safe when used in food, teas or aromatherapy. But concentrated doses or extracts can pose risks. Consuming large amounts may cause vomiting or, in rare cases, seizures – particularly in people with epilepsy. "There's also a theoretical risk of rosemary stimulating uterine contractions, so pregnant people should avoid high doses. Because rosemary can interact with some medications – such as blood thinners – it's best to check with a healthcare provider before taking large amounts in supplement form. "Rosemary is more than just a kitchen staple. It's a natural remedy with ancient roots and modern scientific backing. As research continues, particularly into breakthrough compounds like diAcCA, rosemary could play an exciting role in future treatments for Alzheimer's and other chronic conditions. "In the meantime, adding a little rosemary to your life – whether in a meal, a cup of tea, or a breath of its fragrant oil – could be a small step with big health benefits."
Time of India
02-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Not a good mix
Tea Sudafed clozapine Dipa Kamdar Kingston University For many of us, the day doesn't start until we've had our first cup of coffee. It's comforting, energising, and one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world. But while your morning brew might feel harmless, it can interact with certain medicines in ways that reduce their effectiveness – or increase the risk of common cold tablets to antidepressants, caffeine's impact on the body goes far beyond a quick energy contains caffeine but not in the same concentrations as coffee, and doesn't seem to affect people in the same way. Here's what you should know about how coffee can interfere with your medications – and how to stay is a stimulant, which means it speeds up the central nervous system. Pseudoephedrine, a decongestant found in cold and flu remedies such as, is also a stimulant. When taken together, the effects can be amplified – potentially leading to jitters or restlessness, headaches, fast heart rate and cold medications already contain added caffeine, increasing these risks further. Some studies also suggest that combining caffeine with pseudoephedrine can raise blood sugar and body temperature – particularly important for people with effects are also a concern when combining caffeine with ADHD medications such as amphetamines, or with asthma drugs such as theophylline, which shares a similar chemical structure to caffeine. Using them together may increase the risk of side-effects such as a rapid heartbeat and sleep the standard treatment for an underactive thyroid, is highly sensitive to timing – and your morning coffee can get in the way. Studies show that drinking coffee too soon after taking levothyroxine can reduce its absorption by up to 50%.Caffeine speeds up gut motility (the movement of food and waste through the digestive tract), giving the drug less time to be absorbed – and may also bind to it in the stomach, making it harder for the body to take in. These effects reduce the drug's bioavailability, meaning less of it reaches your bloodstream where it's needed. This interaction is more common with tablet forms of levothyroxine, and less likely with liquid absorption is impaired, symptoms of hypothyroidism – including fatigue, weight gain and constipation – can return, even if you're taking your medicine same timing rule applies to a class of osteoporosis medications called bisphosphonates, including alendronate and risedronate, which also require an empty stomach and around 30-60 minutes before food or drink is interaction between caffeine and mental health medications can be more serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as sertraline and citalopram, are a type of antidepressant medication widely used to treat depression, anxiety and other psychiatric conditions. Lab studies suggest caffeine can bind to these drugs in the stomach, reducing absorption and potentially making them less antidepressants (TCAs), such as amitriptyline and imipramine, are a class of older antidepressants that work by affecting the levels of neurotransmitters in the were among the first antidepressants developed and are less commonly used today, compared with newer antidepressants such as SSRIs, due to their potential for more side-effects and higher risk of are broken down by the liver enzyme CYP1A2, which also metabolises caffeine. The competition between the two can slow drug breakdown, increasing side-effects, or delay caffeine clearance, making you feel jittery or wired longer than an antipsychotic, is also processed by CYP1A2. One study showed that drinking two-to-three cups of coffee could increase blood levels ofby up to 97%, potentially increasing risks such as drowsiness, confusion, or more serious over-the-counter painkillers, such as those containing aspirin or paracetamol, include added caffeine. Coffee can speed up how quickly these drugs are absorbed by accelerating how fast the stomach empties and making the stomach more acidic, which improves absorption for some medications such as this may help painkillers work faster, it could also raise the risk of side-effects like stomach irritation or bleeding, especially when combined with other sources of caffeine. Though no serious cases have been reported, caution is still can temporarily raise blood pressure and heart rate, typically lasting three-to-four hours after consumption. For people taking blood pressure medication or drugs that control irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias), this may counteract the intended effects of the doesn't mean people with heart conditions must avoid coffee altogether – but they should monitor how it affects their symptoms, and consider limiting intake or switching to decaf if may be part of your daily routine, but it's also a potent chemical compound that can influence how your body processes medicine. Here's how to make sure it doesn't levothyroxine or bisphosphonates on an empty stomach with water, and wait 30-60 minutes before drinking coffee or eating cautious with cold and flu remedies, asthma treatments and ADHD medications, as caffeine can amplify you're on antidepressants, antipsychotics, or blood pressure drugs, discuss your caffeine habits with your reducing intake or choosing a decaffeinated option if you experience side-effects like restlessness, insomnia or heart metabolises caffeine differently – some people feel fine after three cups, while others get side-effects after just one. Pay attention to how your body responds and talk to your pharmacist or GP if anything feels you're ever unsure whether your medicine and your coffee are a good match, ask your pharmacist or doctor. A short conversation might save you weeks of side-effects or reduced treatment effectiveness – and help you enjoy your brew with peace of mind.
