It concluded that both of these rosemary polyphenols may play a role in the chemoprevention of prostate cancer. The mechanism of action discussed being the promotion of prostate cancer cell apoptosis (cell death) and the inhibition of a critical signaling pathway which is central to tumour cell survival.

Seeing prostate cancer is the most common cancer in Australia and New Zealand men, and is the second most common cause of cancer death in men, this research is of vital importance. Polyphenols from rosemary as well as having antioxidant actions, also have anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial actions. Important to note too that rosemary is known to promote oestrogen detoxification, which is beneficial when managing prostate cancer.

 

Petiwala SM & Johnson JJ. Polyphenols from the Mediterranean herb rosemary for prostate cancer. Front Pharmacol. 2013;4:29