Abstract: Rosemary (Rosmarius officinalis L.), a plant of the family Labiatae, has been planted largely in south region of China. The essential oil of rosemary is a traditional natural perfume. The rosemary extract obtained from the residue after the removal of essential oil is a natural antioxidant that has a good antioxidative activity. Domestic and foreign researches on cultivation of rosemary, main chemical compositions of the extract, manufacture process of rosemary extract, utilization of rosemary extract as antioxidant in fats, oils, and foods were reviewed comprehensively. The prospect of the potential application of rosemary extract in other fields, particularly in the pharmaceutical industry, was discussed.

Key words: rosemary (Rosmarius officinalis L.), rosemary extract, antioxidant