Hair loss can feel disheartening. Hair has been a strong part of our identity since time immemorial. Some hair loss is expected; much like how we age, our hair also has a growth cycle, which ends with shedding. Nonetheless, it can impact our self-esteem. So, how do we promote hair growth?
Rosemary oil, extracted from the rosemary plant, can be a great natural remedy to treat hair loss. It has been a household favourite for decades, improving hair health slowly and steadily. Rosemary oil is best known for promoting relaxation and encouraging hair growth. It cannot guarantee an immediate fix, but it can ensure long-term support for your hair.
In this blog, we will explore the benefits of rosemary oil. Does it really treat hair loss, or is it a hoax? Read on to understand how rosemary oil can improve your daily life.
What is Rosemary Oil?
Rosemary oil is a concentrated extract taken from the rosemary plant, Rosmarinus officinalis L. The rosemary plant is often used for cooking for its flavour and aroma. The rosemary plant originates from the Mediterranean Sea and the southern Himalayas. It has long been used for medicinal purposes, used to relieve migraines, pain, insomnia, and emotional imbalances. Rosemary is also said to help boost your memory and learning, and aid in hair growth.
The rosemary plant has bioactive properties. It aids in fighting off bacteria, fungi, and free radicals. It is an adaptive plant, growing in hot and dry climates and accepting any type of soil.
Types of Rosemary Oil
There are four distinct types of rosemary oil, each varying in chemical traits. The four types are:
- Camphor: Rosemary naturally contains camphor as one of its key aromatic compounds.
- Cineole: Cineole rosemary oil is most commonly used in diffusers, for massage, and in hair preparations like oil masks.
- Pinene: Pinene rosemary oil can be found in medicines and mouthwashes, or used in flavour and for fragrance.
- Verbenone: Verbenone rosemary is most commonly used in aromatherapy and skincare.
The Science Behind Rosemary Oil
Research suggests that rosemary oil can be very beneficial for hair treatment. While it cannot cure hair loss permanently, especially in cases of genetics or health conditions, rosemary oil can encourage hair growth in a slow and steady manner.
One study from 2022 found that rosemary acts in a similar way to minoxidil when it comes to aiding hair growth. However, it may take a few weeks for the results to show. This study was backed up by other reviewed studies that were researching a natural alternative for androgenetic alopecia. Rosemary oil may be equally as effective as minoxidil in combating hair loss.
A 2024 review found that the bioactive compounds in rosemary may be the reason behind its hair growth properties. Rosemary oil possesses antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Key Benefits of Rosemary Oil for Hair Growth
Rosemary oil is gaining popularity in the hair care and skin care fields due to its healing properties. You can find rosemary essential oil used in various forms, from aromatherapy to hair growth. Let’s take a look at some of the ways in which rosemary oil can help your hair’s health.
- Supports Hair Growth: Rosemary oil is said to enhance blood circulation in the scalp. Hair follicles gain more nutrients and oxygen. This can help stimulate growth.
- Reduces Hair Thinning: Rosemary oil can strengthen hair follicles, reducing breakage and excessive shedding. Some research indicates that rosemary oil can naturally block dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is a hormone responsible for male and female pattern baldness. According to these studies, rosemary stops DHT from binding to the hair follicles.
- Improves Scalp Health: The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties in rosemary oil soothe irritations of the scalp. It can help prevent the buildup of dirt and dandruff while also reducing itchiness related to these elements. Rosemary oil may also help balance the natural oil production in your scalp, ensuring your hair does not become excessively greasy.
- Strengthens Hair Strands: Rosemary oil seeps into the scalp and takes care of hair follicles at the root. From root to tip, rosemary oil works to reduce all kinds of hair problems. Its antioxidant-rich characteristic helps protect hair from damage. Rosemary oil may increase the elasticity of hair, too.
- Enhances Hair Texture: Your hair may feel smoother and look shinier after you use rosemary oil. Rosemary may improve overall hair texture. Rosemary oil is combined with a carrier oil, enriching the good properties in the carrier oil, too.
How does rosemary oil treat hair loss?
When you massage rosemary oil combined with a carrier oil into your scalp, its beneficial properties immediately get to work. Supported by the massage technique, rosemary oil reaches your hair roots and improves blood flow to the area. This makes it easier for the hair follicles to access the nutrients. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in rosemary oil actively work to keep your scalp in pristine condition. It can reduce dandruff and other scalp conditions, ensuring nothing hinders hair growth.
Rosemary oil has incredible benefits, especially for hair health. However, more research is required to understand the benefits of rosemary oil in depth.
Rosemary Oil Uses for Hair Growth
Rosemary oil makes for a great hair restorative remedy and thickener. You can try the following hair treatments with rosemary oil, doing it once or twice a week to see the best results. You can also use them more frequently, if you wish. Let’s look at some ways to use rosemary oil for hair growth:
- Massage it directly into your scalp. Remember to use rosemary oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil or jojoba oil. Massage it gently and evenly into your scalp. You can let the oil stay in your hair for a few days, or if you wish to rinse it, you can let it sit for about 15 minutes before washing.
- Mix it into your hair products. Only use a couple of drops in your shampoo, conditioner, hair mask, or styling products. Stick to roughly three drops per ounce of product. Do not over-saturate your products with rosemary oil. You can also look for rosemary-infused shampoo. Rosemary oil will take time to work, so be patient.
Does Hair Type Matter?
Rosemary oil is compatible with all hair types. However, different hair types may present varying textures and feels after use. Fine hair may appear more greasy and weighed down if you use rosemary oil frequently. For fine hair, it is advised that you use rosemary oil as a pre-shampoo treatment. Allow it to soak into your scalp for 15 minutes and then rinse it out with shampoo. Dilute it with a lightweight carrier oil to reduce its heaviness on fine hair.
In coarse or thick hair, rosemary oil may settle better, requiring a more liberal application. You can even leave it overnight if you have thicker hair. Always do a patch test first to ensure you don’t have any allergic reactions or irritate your skin. Carrier oils will add extra benefits for coarse or thick hair.
Things to Know Before Using Rosemary Oil
Rosemary oil is a great natural remedy for hair loss. However, it can also be potent, and doctors advise using it with care. While it is natural, rosemary oil may not suit everybody or every hair type. Be mindful of how much rosemary oil you use and the carriers you add it to. Here are some things you should know before you use rosemary oil:
- Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding are advised not to use rosemary oil in any form, including in cosmetics. In fact, breastfeeding mothers should seek medical advice before using any essential oil.
- Avoid getting rosemary oil in your mouth or eyes, and keep it well out of reach of children.
- Rosemary oil is concentrated. Children and infants may react sensitively to the oil. Dilute the rosemary oil with another carrier oil or avoid it altogether. If you are using rosemary oil around your children, please seek medical advice first.
- Undiluted rosemary oil can be an irritant. Do not apply it directly onto your skin. Always dilute rosemary oil with another carrier oil.
- Rosemary oil can make or break your hair follicles. This means that too much of it can damage your hair follicles.
- If you have a skin condition or sensitivity to essential oils, avoid rosemary oil. Rosemary oil is highly concentrated, and it can irritate your skin, even causing an allergic reaction. You should consult a healthcare professional before using natural rosemary oil.
Side Effects of Rosemary Oil
Rosemary oil has incredible benefits. However, it can also have some serious side effects. Rosemary oil is highly concentrated, which is why you are always advised to dilute it with a carrier oil. Everything is beneficial in moderation. Overuse or over-consumption of rosemary and rosemary oil can lead to the following side effects:
- Rosemary oil’s potent nature can lead to allergic reactions, particularly in those with sensitive skin. It can cause itching, redness, irritation, or even respiratory issues if used in a diffuser.
- If you are using rosemary oil or rosemary herbs in cooking, practice moderation. Over-consumption can cause gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, and stomach aches.
- Excessive use of rosemary may lead to blood thinning, increasing the risk of bleeding.
- Rosemary oil’s potent concentration can also cause dizziness, low blood pressure, or fainting.
- In extreme cases, concentrated rosemary oil may trigger seizures if consumed in large amounts.
As with most things in this world, moderation is key. Rosemary has plenty of benefits when used in the right amount. Avoid over-consumption, be it through ingestion, inhalation, or absorption through skin.
Conclusion
Rosemary oil is an excellent natural alternative to many allopathic hair loss medications. You can use it in various ways, including hair masks, oil treatment, massages, and with hair care products. Ensure you read your labels and consult a healthcare professional before using rosemary oil. Its concentrated nature may not be suitable for everyone. Always use a carrier oil so as not to cause irritation or itching.
