At Find the Joy, we believe that supporting your emotional well-being doesn’t have to be complicated. Often, it starts with small, familiar choices — like the herbs you cook with every day.
As part of Dr. Uma Naidoo’s Mood Food series, rosemary is highlighted for its gentle yet meaningful support for mood, memory, and overall brain health.
How Rosemary Supports Your Mood
Rosemary contains natural compounds that help support the brain and nervous system. These compounds are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce mental fatigue and support clearer thinking.
The aroma of rosemary alone has been linked to improved focus and a calmer, more alert state. Over time, regularly including rosemary in your meals may help support emotional balance and make everyday stress feel a little easier to manage.
How Easy It Is to Include Rosemary in Cooking
One of the joys of rosemary is how effortless it is to use. It doesn’t require special preparation and adds both flavor and nourishment to simple meals.
You can:
Sprinkle fresh or dried rosemary on roasted vegetables, chicken, fish, or potatoes
Stir it into soups, stews, or sauces Steep it in hot water for a simple herbal tea
Infuse it into olive oil for easy, flavorful cooking
Even small amounts, used consistently, can make a meaningful difference.
Key Health Benefits of Rosemary
Beyond its mood-supporting qualities, rosemary offers several health benefits that support overall well-being:
Helps protect brain cells through antioxidant activity Supports memory, focus, and cognitive clarity May help reduce inflammation in the body Provides nutrients that support circulation and brain health
Together, these benefits support both physical and emotional resilience.
Finding the Joy
Dr. Uma’s Mood Food series reminds us that joy often comes from simple acts of care. Adding rosemary to your cooking is a small, nourishing choice that supports your mood, your mind, and your sense of well-being.
It’s a gentle reminder that joy doesn’t have to be chased — sometimes, it’s already growing right in your kitchen.
This post is inspired by Dr. Uma Naidoo, MD, and her Mood Food series, which explores how simple, nourishing foods can support mood, well-being, and everyday joy.
Find the joy 