Rosmarinic acid, an antioxidant and antimicrobial found in many plants such as rosemary and oregano, prevents cell damage caused by free radical reactions — reactions that are thought to be involved in inflammation, arthritis and the aging process in general. It also shows promise as a preventative for arterial plaque formation, as an HIV integrase inhibitor, and for treating bronchial asthma, gingivitis and inflammatory diseases in general.