Chewing gum base stabilized with carnosic acid

This invention discloses a chewing gum rubber composition (gum base) that utilizes carnosic acid from a Libiatae plant, such as rosemary or sage, as an antioxidant stabilizer. This invention more specifically discloses a chewing gum base comprising: (1) about 5 weight percent to about 95 weight percent of a rubbery elastomer; (2) about 0 weight percent to about 75 weight percent of an elastomer plasticizer selected from the group consisting of natural rosin esters and synthetic terpene resins; (3) about 1 weight percent to about 65 weight percent of a filler material; and (4) carnosic acid, wherein said chewing gum base is void of sweeteners, flavoring agents or colorants and a water-soluble portion.