Rosmarinus officinalis: a neuroprotective agent against cadmium neurotoxicity

Cadmium (Cd) is a major environmental contaminant; chronic exposure to it is associated with oxidative stress, cognitive and emotional disorders, and the development of neurodegenerative diseases. In this context, this book explores the neuroprotective potential of Rosmarinus officinalis L., a medicinal plant known for its antioxidant properties. Using an experimental model of cadmium-induced neurotoxicity in Wistar rats, the study evaluates the safety of rosemary ethanolic extract and its efficacy in preventing behavioral, biochemical, and histopathological alterations. The results demonstrate that this extract is non-toxic at the doses studied, enhances antioxidant defenses, reduces oxidative stress, improves cognitive performance, alleviates anxiety and depressive behaviors, and preserves the integrity of the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. This work thus provides experimental evidence of the therapeutic potential of Rosmarinus officinalis as a natural agent for protection against cadmium-induced neurotoxicity and contributes to the advancement of medicinal plants in the field of neuroscience.