Rosemary essential oil is popular and has been used for centuries to promote hair growth and improve overall hair health. It is extracted from the leaves of the rosemary plant, which contains a variety of beneficial compounds, such as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents, and essential fatty acids [source]. Many people use rosemary oil as a natural remedy for hair loss and thinning hair, as well as to improve the thickness and texture of their hair. It has also been said to help stimulate hair follicles, promote blood circulation in the scalp, and reduce dandruff and other scalp conditions.

Want to learn about the benefits of using rosemary oil for hair growth and how to use it effectively? Read on!

Benefits of Rosemary Oil for Hair

Rosemary oil has quite a few benefits for hair. Here are just a few:

Promotes hair growth: Rosemary oil can help stimulate hair growth by increasing blood circulation in the scalp and promoting the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles.

Improves hair thickness and texture: The essential fatty acids in rosemary oil nourish and strengthen hair, improving its texture and thickness.

Prevents hair loss: Rosemary oil contains antioxidants that can help prevent hair loss by neutralizing free radicals and reducing inflammation in the scalp.

Fights dandruff: The anti-inflammatory properties of rosemary oil can help reduce scalp irritation and dandruff.

Soothes an itchy scalp: Rosemary oil can help soothe the itch by reducing inflammation and irritation.

Conditions and moisturizes hair: Rosemary oil can leave hair soft, shiny, and healthy-looking.

Reduces stress: The scent of rosemary oil can have a calming effect, which helps reduce stress and tension that can contribute to hair loss.

Rosemary for Hair Growth

Some scientific research suggests that rosemary oil may be beneficial for hair growth and reducing hair loss. Here are some findings:

A study published in 2012 looking at the effect of rosemary on hair loss in mice showed improved regrowth of hair after applying rosemary leaf extract [source].

An older study had previously found that a scalp massage with a mixture of carrier oils and essential oils, including rosemary oil, led to a significant increase in hair growth after 7 months of daily treatment [source].

In 2015, researchers published a study with the findings that topical rosemary oil exhibited hair growth-promoting activity equivalent to that of minoxidil 2% in mice after 6 months of daily use, suggesting that it may also have the potential for promoting hair growth in humans [source].

The mechanism was later determined to be an increase in blood flow around the hair follicles, similar to that of minoxidil [source]. It has also been shown to reduce inflammation [source].

While these studies suggest that rosemary oil may be helpful when dealing with hair loss, more research is needed to fully understand its effects and mechanisms of action.

How to Make Rosemary Oil for Hair Growth

Making rosemary oil for hair is a simple process that can be done at home using fresh or dried rosemary leaves and a carrier oil. Rosemary-infused oil is not as potent as the essential oil, but you'll still reap some of its herbal benefits. Here's how to make rosemary-infused oil:

Materials:

—1 cup jojoba oil (or other carrier oil such as coconut or olive)

—½ cup fresh or dried organic rosemary leaves

—A clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid

—Cheesecloth or a fine-mesh strainer

Instructions:

Wash the rosemary leaves thoroughly and allow them to dry completely.

Crush the rosemary leaves slightly with your fingers or a mortar and pestle to release their essential oils.

Add the crushed rosemary leaves to the glass jar and cover them with the carrier oil. Make sure the leaves are completely submerged in the oil.

Seal the jar tightly and place it in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks. You can also speed up the process by placing the jar in a warm spot, like a sunny windowsill, for a few hours each day.

After 2 weeks, strain the oil through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh strainer to remove the rosemary leaves.

Store the rosemary oil in a clean, airtight glass jar and place in a cool, dark place until ready to use.

How to use:

Massage a small amount onto your scalp and hair, focusing on areas where you want to promote hair growth or reduce dandruff. Leave the oil on your hair for at least 30 minutes or overnight before washing it out with shampoo and conditioner. Use the rosemary oil for hair once or twice a week for the best results.

Ways to Use Rosemary Oil for Hair

Rosemary oil can be used to promote hair growth, reduce dandruff, and improve the overall health and appearance of your hair. Here are a few ways to use rosemary oil for hair:

1. Rosemary Oil Scalp Massage

Mix a few drops of diluted rosemary oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut or olive oil, and massage the mixture onto your scalp for 5–10 minutes. This can help stimulate blood circulation in the scalp and promote hair growth.

Do this before bed so your hair can soak in the benefits overnight, and then wash it out in the morning. If you have a really hard time getting the oils out of your hair, combine a bit of gentle dish soap with shampoo in your hand to cut the grease.

2. Rosemary Oil Hair Mask

Mix a few drops of rosemary oil with your favorite hair mask or deep conditioner and apply it to your hair. Leave the mask on for 30 minutes to an hour before rinsing it out with water. This can help condition and moisturize your hair, leaving it soft and shiny.

3. Rosemary Oil Shampoo and Conditioner

Add a few drops of rosemary oil to your regular shampoo and conditioner and use them as usual. This can help reduce dandruff and promote hair growth over time.

4. Rosemary Oil Hair Rinse

After washing your hair, mix a few drops of rosemary oil with water and use it as a final rinse. This can help condition and moisturize your hair, leaving it soft and shiny.

Rosemary Essential Oil for Hair Growth

Amplify the effects of rosemary by combining its essential oil (EO) with other hair-nourishing carrier oils and essential oils, and your hair will soak up the benefits. Here's what you'll need to take this to the next level by using EOs to make a rosemary oil specifically for hair growth:

Jojoba oil is not a true oil. It’s actually composed of 98% liquid plant wax with a structure similar to the sebum our scalp produces [source]. Because this nourishing oil is an excellent emollient [source] that won’t clog hair follicles, jojoba is an excellent conditioner for dry, treated hair [source] and is said to stimulate hair growth.

Argan oil is a “dry” oil, meaning that it’s light and absorbs quickly. Rich in fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamin E, argan oil conditions and moisturizes dry or damaged hair. Research has shown that it protects the hair against oxidative damage [source].

Rosemary essential oil is an invigorating oil that can stimulate hair growth [source]. The plant is also known for its antimicrobial effects [source] and has been shown to help with dandruff [source].

Lavender essential oil helps combat oily hair and dandruff. When used as a daily application in animal studies, lavender was shown to promote hair growth [source].

How to Dilute Rosemary Essential Oil

Rosemary essential oil should always be diluted before use, as it is potent and can cause irritation and sensitivity when used in its concentrated form. Diluting rosemary essential oil for hair is easy and can be done using a carrier oil, such as coconut, jojoba, or olive oil. If you've infused the carrier oil with rosemary herbs, that's even better!

Materials:

—8 drops rosemary essential oil

—6 drops lavender essential oil

—1 tablespoon rosemary-infused jojoba oil (from the recipe above)

—1 tablespoon argan oil or sesame seed oil

Instructions:

Choose a carrier oil that works best for your hair type and needs.

Add 2 tablespoons of carrier oil to a bottle with a dropper lid.

Add the essential oils and mix well. If you're only using rosemary essential oil, up the number of drops to 12–14.

Test the mixture on a small patch of skin on your arm or wrist to make sure you don't have an allergic reaction or a sensitivity to the oil.

If there are no adverse reactions, massage the diluted rosemary oil onto your scalp and hair, focusing on areas where you want to promote hair growth or reduce dandruff.

Leave the oil on your hair for at least 30 minutes or overnight before washing it out with shampoo and conditioner.

You can adjust the ratio of rosemary essential oil to carrier oil based on your hair type and needs. For example, if you have a sensitive scalp, you may want to use more carrier oil and fewer drops of rosemary essential oil. Always perform a patch test before using any new essential oil on your skin or hair.

Ways to Use Rosemary Essential Oil for Hair

Here are a few home recipes using rosemary essential oil (EO) for hair:

1. Rosemary EO Hair Growth Tonic

Mix 10–12 drops of rosemary EO with 2 tablespoons of carrier oil such as coconut, olive, or jojoba oil. Massage the mixture into your scalp and hair, and leave it on for at least 30 minutes. Then shampoo and condition as usual. Repeat this treatment once or twice a week for the best results.

2. Rosemary EO Hair Rinse

Brew a cup of rosemary tea by steeping fresh or dried organic rosemary leaves in boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes. Once the tea has cooled, add 5–10 drops of rosemary EO and use it as a final rinse after shampooing and conditioning your hair. This can help to strengthen your hair and promote shine.

3. Rosemary EO and Aloe Vera Hair Mask

Mix 2 tablespoons of fresh aloe vera gel with 10–12 drops of rosemary EO and apply the mixture to your hair and scalp. Leave it on for 20 to 30 minutes, then rinse it off with warm water and shampoo as usual. This mask can help to soothe an irritated scalp, moisturize your hair, and promote hair growth.

4. Rosemary EO for Aromatherapy

Add a few drops of rosemary EO to a diffuser, and breathe in the scent to help reduce stress and tension, which can contribute to hair loss.

Side Effects for Rosemary EO and Warning

While rosemary EO is generally considered safe when used properly, there are some potential side effects and precautions to be aware of when using it for hair:

Skin irritation: Rosemary EO is potent and can cause skin irritation and sensitivity when used in its concentrated form. Always dilute it with a carrier oil and perform a patch test before using it on your scalp or skin.

Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to rosemary EO. If you experience itching, redness, or swelling, stop using it immediately, and seek medical attention if your symptoms persist.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: There is limited research on the safety of using rosemary EO during pregnancy and breastfeeding, so it is best to avoid using it or consult with your doctor before use.

Children: Rosemary EO should not be used for infants or young children, as it can be too strong for their delicate skin and respiratory systems.

Eye contact: Rosemary EO can cause eye irritation if it comes into contact with the eyes. If this happens, rinse the eyes thoroughly with cool water and seek medical attention.

It is always important to use essential oils safely and according to instructions. It is important to stop using them if you experience any adverse reactions. If in doubt, consult with a licensed aromatherapist or healthcare professional before using rosemary EO or any other essential oil.

Before you go...

Rosemary oil has been traditionally used for centuries to promote hair growth, reduce dandruff, and improve the hair’s overall health and appearance. But it's not the only essential oil that's helpful for hair! Learn how you can use oils like lavender and peppermint for hair growth right here.

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DIY Hair Oil with Rosemary

Use this DIY rosemary hair serum daily for shiny, healthy hair. It’s a cinch to make and smells amazing, too!

Prep Time10

Total Time10

Course: At Home Hair Treatment

Cuisine: Beauty

Keyword: essential oils, hair

Yield: ounce

Author: Stephanie Gerber

Cost: $8

Equipment

A 1-ounce bottle with dropper cap
Funnel (optional)

Materials

6 drops lavender essential oil
8 drops rosemary essential oil
1 tablespoon jojoba oil
1 tablespoon argan oil (or sesame oil)

Instructions

Pour the carrier oils and essential oils into a glass bottle that has a dropper top. Replace the lid and shake gently to combine the oils.
To apply, put a couple of drops onto your palm, and use your fingertips to smooth the oil from the middle to the ends of wet or dry hair.
You can also use the oil to give yourself a weekly scalp massage. Rub a few drops between your fingertips, and massage it into the roots of your hair. Then apply it to the ends of your hair to seal any split ends. Leave it on overnight if you have dry hair.

Notes

Apply 2 to 3 times a week as needed to replenish moisture. Add a teaspoon of baking soda to your shampoo if you have trouble getting the serum out of your hair.