Carnosic acid (salvin) is abundant in sage and rosemary leaves. It has antioxidative, anti-carcinogenic, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-adipogenic, antiproliferative, antitumorigenic and neuroprotective properties. It is increasingly exploited within food, nutrition health, and cosmetic industries. It is used as the main active antioxidants of food additives in Europe, in products including oils, animal fats, sauces, bakery wares, meat, and fish products etc. to prevent oxidation and prolong their storage time. It is proven to be efficient in the treatment of hyperglycemia. In cosmetic industry, it is used in the hair care and skin care products. Oral health care is another cosmetics-related application of carnosic acid: in vitro studies have shown that it efficiently protected against typical cariogenic microorganisms. It is the important raw material of tooth grinding and gargle agent.
