Rosemary for Hair Health

Have you heard? One of the latest Tik Tok sensations is a plant. Rosemary the herb has become a social media sensation because of its growing popularity in promoting hair growth and strength.

Rosemary the plant is native to the Mediterranean region. When steam distilled from fresh twigs and leaves, the essential oil is pale liquid in color and has an herbaceous aroma. Rosemary is known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties which are all excellent for the hair and scalp.

As part of the skin, the body’s largest organ, the scalp holds the hair follicles. Here, hair formation begins on a cellular level to produce hair fibers. A healthy scalp microbiome equals health hair growth. The human body is made up of over 100 trillion microbes–microscopic single-celled bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms that combine to form a “microbiome.” These microscopic groups are specifically formulated to support different areas of the body such as the stomach, gut, and skin. Rosemary essential oil is excellent in supporting a healthy scalp microbiome.

Rosemary strengthens and promotes blood circulation to the scalp which assists with nerve and cell growth and moisturizes the skin. Without proper blood supply, hair follicles will not receive their required nutrients. No nutrients equal no hair growth and the follicles die off.

Check this out! A 2015 study found that Rosemary essential oil had similar results with certain types of hair loss as minoxidil.

Rosemary essential oil vs. minoxidil 2% study

Rosemary’s antioxidant properties prevent premature damage to the body by stopping cells from oxidizing. (Think of a sliced apples that has been left out on the counter and how quickly it turns brown.) By combating these damaging free radicals, rosemary shows another way in which it can prevent hair loss and also may help reduce the appearance of gray hair. Its aromatherapy benefits have a relaxing effect and reducing stress limits premature signs of aging as well.

As an anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial, rosemary essential oil is a key ingredient in preventing dandruff. While eliminating bacteria that clog hair follicles, it also soothes irritation and itchiness to reduce flakes on the scalp.

How to Use Rosemary Essential Oil

Dandruff: It is recommended to use rosemary oil 3-4 times per week. Massage the oil into the scalp, leave on for 20 minutes, and then shampoo normally. Do not use as often if hair is oily and/or fine.

Hair growth: Use twice per week and increase as tolerated. Add a few drops of rosemary essential oil to some carrier oil in your palm, massage into hair and leave for 5-10 minutes. Then rinse or shampoo normally. For ease of use, add a few drops of rosemary essential oil to your shampoo and/or conditioner.

There are products on the market that already contain rosemary that may work for your hair needs. Please read the ingredients and be mindful of “fragrance” used in these products instead of true rosemary essential oil.

Two Recipes for Hair Health

If you’re looking to make these projects, Your Oil Tools has a wonderful selection of containers and additional ingredients! I love purchasing my bottles from them.