Breaking Addiction: Rosemary Extract Shows Promise in Reducing Cocaine Cravings

A groundbreaking study from the University of California, Irvine, reveals that carnosic acid, an antioxidant found in rosemary extract, can significantly reduce cocaine use by influencing brain activity. This breakthrough discovery opens up new avenues for treating addiction, focusing on brain regions that regulate dopamine release.

The Science Behind the Breakthrough

Researchers identified a specific neuron circuit in the globus pallidus externus (GPe) region of the brain, which acts as a gatekeeper for dopamine release. They found that parvalbumin-positive neurons in the GPe play a crucial role in controlling the response to cocaine. Carnosic acid selectively binds to affected channels, reducing the response to cocaine.

A New Potential Treatment for Addiction

The study’s findings have significant implications for developing new interventions for addiction. With no effective therapeutics currently available for psychostimulant dependence, this research provides hope for those struggling with addiction.

Key Takeaways

Reduced Cocaine Cravings: Carnosic acid reduces voluntary cocaine consumption in mice.
Targeted Approach: The antioxidant selectively binds to affected channels, providing a relatively specific fashion to reduce response to cocaine.
Biomarker Potential: Globus pallidus cell activity could serve as a biomarker to identify individuals vulnerable to substance use disorder.
Future Directions: Researchers will assess carnosic acid’s side effects, determine optimal dosage and timing, and test its efficacy in reducing desire for other drugs.

Expert Insights

“Our study deepens our understanding of the basic brain mechanisms that increase vulnerability to substance use disorder-related outcomes and provides a foundation for the development of new interventions.” – Kevin Beier, UC Irvine associate professor of physiology and biophysics

Reference

“Molecular and circuit determinants in the globus pallidus mediating control of cocaine-induced behavioral plasticity” (Neuron, 2024)

Supporting Organizations