Rosemary Oil For Hair Growth: Truth Or Myth?

By Shammi Mondal 

If you've been daydreaming about having shampoo commercial-like long and lustrous hair, fret not! While we can't promise you Rapunzel’s length overnight (wouldn't that be something?) we've got you the next best thing. Using rosemary oil for your hair could give you great results, especially if you’re suffering from hair loss or breakage. The fragrant herb is known to have several beauty and wellness benefits, but to truly understand its efficacy we dive into the facts to tell truth from fiction.  

What is rosemary oil? 

Rosemary essential oil comes from the leaves of the rosemary plant (rosmarinus officinalis) through a process of steam distillation. The oil has been used for centuries for its therapeutic and culinary properties. 

Rosemary oil contains various chemical compounds, including cineole, camphor, and pinene, which contribute to its unique scent and potential health benefits. It possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and stimulating properties that make it a popular ingredient in personal care products and traditional medicine. 

The essential oil is also rich in rosmarinic acid, caffeic acid, and antioxidants that promote hair growth, combat hair loss, and enhance overall hair health. 

Furthermore, rosemary oil possesses antimicrobial properties that can combat bacteria and fungi, which are often responsible for dandruff, and hair loss. Regular use of the hair oil helps maintain a healthy scalp environment and boosts hair growth. 

What is the science behind rosemary oil? 

While the healing oil has plenty of anecdotal attributes, rosemary oil has several benefits for your hair as well. It isn't just some old wives' tale—it's backed by real scientific research. 

A study by the National Library of Medicine has shown that rosemary oil can actually help with hair growth in certain cases of hair loss, like alopecia areata, androgenetic alopecia, and psoriatic alopecia. In a head-to-head showdown with minoxidil (the popular hair growth ingredient) the study found no significant difference between rosemary oil and minoxidil when it came to hair growth. Infact, the group that applied rosemary oil also experienced reduced scalp itching.  

So, if you're looking for a natural, scientifically-backed hair growth hack, give rosemary oil a go and let it work it’s its magic.

The benefits of rosemary hair oil 

Hair growth boost: Rosemary hair oil is a vasodilator, which means it dilates blood vessels on your scalp leading to better blood circulation and oil penetration. Several studies have compared rosemary essential oil to minoxidil which showed that it has a turbo boost effect on your hair follicles. It revs up the circulation on your scalp, delivering all those essential nutrients straight to the roots.  

Bye-bye breakage: If your hair looks dull and feels brittle, turn to rosemary oil. The strength-boosting hair oil nourishes your hair, increases its tensile strength and protects it from damage and breakage, further reducing split ends and dryness.  

Promote a healthy scalp: Rosemary oil is an anti-inflammatory agent, thanks to ingredients like carnosic acid that give the oil its soothing and restorative properties. The calming oil improves your scalp health, reduces dandruff and a flaky scalp while pacifying itchiness or irritation. 

Stress-free tresses: We all know stress can mess with your hair, but a deeply nourishing massage with rosemary hair oil always saves the day. The aroma of the soothing oil calms down your senses, while the nutrients fight off those stressors, leaving your strands feeling relaxed and ready to shine. 

How to use rosemary oil? 

There are several ways to include rosemary oil in your hair care routine or even your weekly self-care ritual. However, to make the most of its hair growth benefits, we suggest you religiously apply the oil once a week for at least the first six months.

Create a personalized treatment oil: Combine rosemary essential oil with your preferred carrier oil, such as almond or coconut oil. You can also look out for rosemary hair oils that are blended with other growth-boosting oils like pumpkin seed oil. Apply this concoction to your scalp and make sure to massage it in with your fingertips. eave the oil in your hair for a few hours before washing it off.

Remember, consistency and dedication are key when using rosemary oil for hair regrowth. Whether you choose direct application, boost your shampoo with essential oil, or pick other hair care products that are infused with rosemary oil, make sure to follow a routine to maximize the potential benefits for your hair and scalp. 

Rosemary oil for hair 101