The present invention relates to a composition which has an anti-respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity and includes a carnosic acid as an active ingredient. More specifically, the carnosic acid isolated from rosemary extracts shows an antiviral effect on both A-type and B-type RSV. The carnosic acid is more effective than rivavirin which is used as a conventional treatment composition. The present invention can significantly suppress the virus gene expression without generating I-type interferon, inhibit the infection and replication of RSV, and affect cell survival. Accordingly, the composition can be utilized as a pharmaceutical composition for prevention and treatment of respiratory disease or as a dietary supplement.
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