The benefits of Rosemary essential oil for hair have been well-known for centuries.
This popular and versatile essential oil has been used since ancient times for various purposes, especially for hair care.
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It is extracted from the leaves of the Rosmarinus officinalis plant, which is native to the Mediterranean region. The extract belongs to the herbaceous aroma family.
Rosemary essential oil benefits for hair range from promoting hair growth and improving hair thickness and texture to preventing hair fall, and treating scalp issues like dandruff and itchy scalp.
Studies On Rosemary Essential Oil Benefits For Hair
Reading through research studies on the supposed benefits of rosemary essential oil for hair can be very insightful.
This study found that Carnosic acid, an active component present in the herb, has the potential to heal nerve and tissue damage. This ability to heal and rejuvenate nerve endings could also revitalize nerves in the scalp, potentially promoting hair growth.
Another in-depth review of the herb Rosmarinus officinalis found that its volatile oil contains several potent chemical constituents. When rubbed into the hair, rosemary essential oil stimulated the hair bulbs and renewed activity, retarding or even stopping hair fall and premature baldness.
This study focused on a randomized comparative trial of Rosemary oil vs minoxidil (commercially known as Rogaine) on men and women with androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness). The results were interesting. The trial provided evidence with respect to the efficacy of rosemary oil in the treatment of male and female pattern baldness.
The same study also found that rosemary essential oil was far more effective at reducing scalp itching than minoxidil.
Several other research studies found that rosemary essential oil contains a number of different chemical components with properties that are beneficial for hair.
Stimulating properties of some ingredients help increase blood flow to the scalp, allowing more oxygen and nutrients to reach the hair follicles, promoting healthy hair growth.
Rosemary essential oil is rich in antioxidants, which help protect the hair and scalp from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals can damage hair follicles, leading to hair loss and other scalp problems.
The antimicrobial properties of rosemary help prevent and treat bacterial and fungal scalp infections that cause dandruff, itching, and inflammation of the scalp.
Its anti-inflammatory properties help soothe and calm an irritated scalp. Inflammation can cause hair follicles to shrink, leading to hair loss.
Rosemary essential oil has also been shown to strengthen hair by improving the elasticity of hair strands and reducing hair breakage and split ends.
Overall, the combination of these properties makes rosemary essential oil an excellent choice for promoting healthy hair growth, improving the overall health of the scalp, and preventing common scalp problems.
4 Ways Rosemary Essential Oil Benefits Hair
1. Promotes Hair Growth & Reduces Hair Fall
Rosemary essential oil promotes hair growth and retards hair loss by stimulating blood circulation in the scalp, which delivers essential nutrients and oxygen to the hair follicles.
Additionally, rosemary essential oil contains ursolic acid, which has been shown to increase hair growth and thickness.
To use rosemary essential oil for hair growth, mix a few drops of the oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil, and massage the mixture into your scalp for a few minutes. Leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour before washing it off with shampoo.
2. Improves Hair Thickness And Texture
The antioxidants in the oil protect the hair from damage and prevent split ends. Additionally, its antimicrobial properties help to keep the scalp healthy and free from bacteria and fungi that can cause scalp infections.
To use rosemary essential oil for improving hair thickness and texture, mix a few drops of the oil with your regular shampoo and massage it into your hair and scalp. Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing it off with water.
3. Treats Scalp Issues
The inherent antifungal and antibacterial properties of rosemary are very effective for treating scalp infections and reducing inflammation.
Additionally, the oil has a soothing effect on the scalp, which can help relieve itching and irritation.
To use rosemary essential oil for treating scalp issues, mix a few drops of the oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil, and massage the mixture into your scalp. Leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour before washing it off with shampoo.
4. Conditions Hair
Rosemary essential oil contains natural oils and antioxidants that act as a natural conditioner. Applying the oil to your hair helps to soften and detangle the strands while also providing hydration and nourishment.
This leaves hair looking and feeling smoother and more manageable.
To use rosemary essential oil as a conditioner, mix a few drops of the oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or argan oil, and apply it to your hair after shampooing. Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing it off with water.
Overall, rosemary essential oil is a versatile and natural ingredient that can provide many benefits for hair. From promoting hair growth and reducing hair loss to conditioning hair, there are many reasons to incorporate rosemary essential oil into your hair care routine.
Important Safety Precaution
As all of these involve topical applications, you MUST dilute the essential oil with a carrier oil before applying to your scalp or hair.
Concentrated essential oils can be very potent and may cause scalp irritation if used undiluted.
It’s also a good idea to do a patch test on a small area of skin or scalp before using rosemary essential oil on your hair, to make sure you don’t have an allergic reaction.
Read this essential oil dilution guide for the correct ratios of the oils.
Keep this essential oil dilution chart magnet handy so you always apply the correct oil ratio.
How To Use Rosemary Essential Oil For Hair
I’ve mentioned a few ways against each of the benefits but I did want to highlight a few more ways to use rosemary oil for hair.
1. Scalp Massage
Dilute a few drops of rosemary essential oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or olive oil, and massage the mixture into your scalp.
Leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour before washing it off with shampoo. This help to improve scalp circulation, promote hair growth and reduce hair loss.
2. Hair Rinse
Add a few drops of rosemary oil to a cup of warm water and use it as a final rinse after shampooing and conditioning your hair.
This helps to coat hair strands, promote shine, and strengthen hair.
3. Hair Mask
Mix the essential oil with a natural hair mask, such as a mashed avocado or a banana and honey mixture, and apply it to your hair.
Leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour before washing it off with shampoo to condition hair, improve elasticity, and promote hair growth.
4. Hair Spray
Combine the oil with aloe vera gel and water in a spray bottle and use it as a hair spray.
This helps coat and condition hair strands and reduce frizz, resulting in smooth tresses.
The most convenient way to use rosemary essential oil for hair is by buying hair care products that contain the oil as an ingredient.
Potential Side Effects Of Using Rosemary Essential Oil On Hair
In general, rosemary essential oil is considered safe for most people when used in appropriate dilutions.
However, some people may be allergic to rosemary essential oil and may experience skin irritation or an allergic reaction.
It’s important to do a patch test before using rosemary essential oil on your hair and to discontinue use if you experience any adverse reactions.
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to serve as medical advice. Please consult your doctor before using any natural medication or if you experience any unusual symptoms. See Full Disclaimer here.
