Rosemary is a phytogenic aromatic plant, abundant in phenolic acids, such
as caffeic (0.69-1.0 mg/g) and rosmarinic acids (16.77-29.91 mg/g), flavonoids, and
diterpenes. Additional components of rosemary include camphor, 1,8-cineole, and αpinene. Rosmarinic acid (RA) exhibits antioxidant, antiviral, antibacterial, antiinflammatory, and antimutagenic properties. Furthermore, rosemary significantly
reduced the peroxidation of unsaturated lipids and enhanced the levels of reduced
glutathione and antioxidant enzyme activities in the kidney and testis compared to
aspartame controls. Additionally, rosemary essential oil augments the resistance of rat hepatocytes against DNA-damaging oxidative agents and serves as an effective free
radical scavenger. Caffeic and rosmarinic acids have demonstrated potential in the
treatment of inflammatory diseases and hepatotoxicity. Rosemary is also rich in phytochemical derivatives such as triterpenes, flavonoids, and polyphenols. This review will
focus on the beneficial effects of rosemary and its application in improving the
productive performance and health of livestock.
Keywords: Bioactive substances, Immunity, Livestock, Productive performance, Reproductive, Rosemary.
