The use of natural oils to boost hair health is no new thing. There are many, many fruit- and nut-based oils that can be called upon for great results, including avocado oil, coconut oil, jojoba oil, argan oil and even olive oil! The process of applying oil to the hair and scalp – known officially as hair oiling – has also been around for centuries.
The history of hair oiling goes back more than 5,000 years, and the ancient practice still plays a key role in Indian culture today. As Vogue India explains, hair oiling is more than a hair care treatment, with its benefits thought to penetrate much deeper:
“The human body is like an upside-down tree. The head is the root, which needs to be nourished with hair oil… The one who applies oil daily to the head does not get headaches, baldness, greying, and hair fall. The bones of the skull and forehead become strong, the sense organs and complexion are rejuvenated, and sleep is blissful.”
With hair oiling now catching on all over the world, the benefits of using natural oils on the hair and scalp are becoming more and more apparent. So, could rosemary oil be more than just a tasty ingredient you use to cook your Christmas lunch?
When applied topically to the hair and scalp, rosemary oil can unlock a long list of benefits. This woody wonder is well known and much loved for its antioxidant content as well as its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial qualities. When used on the skin, it promotes healing, nerve growth and circulation, all of which can have a positive effect on hair growth.
While more research is needed to provide full confirmation of its benefits for hair growth, the studies already completed have delivered some promising results. Take this small 2023 study as an example, which tested the effects of herbal hair lotion on mice. The ointment contained 1% rosemary essential oil yet yielded better results than bestselling topical hair growth treatment minoxidil.
Researchers noted improvements in hair quality, length, weight and appearance, and many human users of rosemary oil report the same benefits. The use of rosemary oil on the hair has also been linked to better dandruff control and fewer grey hairs.
While considered generally safe to use, rosemary oil is not recommended for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding due to the concentration of ketones which are damaging to unborn babies and infants. People with sensitive skin may also suffer adverse reactions from the application of rosemary oil.
Before you go ahead and apply that rosemary oil, there are a few things to consider. Rosemary essential oil should not be applied without a carrier oil. Be sure to dilute your rosemary essential oil with jojoba oil, argan oil, sunflower oil, grape seed oil or another carrier before application. When unlocking the plus-points of rosemary oil at home, consistency is a must.
It is safe to use rosemary oil with a carrier oil of your choice on a daily basis, but beware the signs of irritation. Irritation may occur if you are applying oil too frequently. Alternatively, your hair may become oilier than usual.
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