Last update: March 25, 2025
4 minute read
Should I Use Rosemary Oil for Hair Growth?
Could rosemary oil be your natural solution for hair growth? Discover how this herbal remedy compares to minoxidil and if it's the right choice for you.

By Stephanie Wright, RN, BSN
Edited by Dr. Dimitar Marinov, MD, RDN, PhD

Are you noticing more hair in your brush than you'd like? Hair loss can be a frustrating experience, leading many to seek effective remedies. While minoxidil is a well-known treatment, there's growing interest in natural alternatives like rosemary oil. But does it truly stand up to the task?
Key takeaways
- Rosemary oil may promote hair growth possibly comparable to minoxidil
- It may have fewer side effects, particularly less scalp itching
- Potentially enhances scalp health through improved blood flow and reduced inflammation
What is rosemary oil and how does it work?
Rosemary oil is believed to improve blood flow to the scalp. Enhanced circulation ensures that hair follicles receive the necessary nutrients and oxygen, potentially stimulating growth.
Compounds like carnosic acid and rosmarinic acid in rosemary oil possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. By reducing oxidative stress and inflammation—key factors in hair loss—rosemary oil may create a healthier environment for hair growth.
VitaRx Tip
Did you know that rosemary has been used for centuries not just for cooking but also in traditional medicine for its healing properties?
Efficacy compared to minoxidil
When it comes to hair growth, minoxidil has been a go-to solution for many. However, a pivotal study in 2022 sheds light on rosemary oil as a contender.
The data suggested rosemary oil enhanced hair growth. This suggests that rosemary oil might have similar potential to minoxidil in the management of hair loss, with the added benefit of fewer side effects.
How to use rosemary oil for hair growth
If you're considering adding rosemary oil to your hair care routine, here's how you can do it:
- Dilute the oil: Mix a few drops of rosemary essential oil with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil.
- Massage into the scalp: Gently massage the mixture into your scalp to stimulate circulation.
- Leave it in: Allow the oil to sit for at least 30 minutes before washing it out.
- Consistency is key: For best results, apply the treatment regularly, monitoring your scalp's reaction.
Other natural remedies for hair growth
While rosemary oil shows promise, there are other natural options that are often marketed as beneficial:
- Biotin (Vitamin B7): Supposed to help hair health, although research is limited. Biotin is a vitamin that can be found in supplements or foods like eggs and nuts. Learn more about what is biotin (Vitamin B7).
- Collagen supplements: Limited research suggests benefits for hair. Discover the power of collagen supplements.
- Stress management techniques: Stress can contribute to hair loss. Engaging in mindfulness techniques can be beneficial.
- Balancing hormones naturally: Hormonal imbalances can affect hair growth. Explore ways of balancing hormones naturally through diet, exercise, and supplementation.

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Safety and side effects
While rosemary oil is generally safe for topical use, there are precautions to consider:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Advised to avoid rosemary oil due to potential risks to the fetus or baby.
- Scalp sensitivity: Some users may experience mild irritation; however, itching was significantly less compared to minoxidil based on observations of users in studies.
- Consultation recommended: Always talk to a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment, especially if you have underlying health conditions.
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Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about rosemary oil.
Final thoughts
Rosemary oil emerges as a promising natural alternative for people seeking to combat hair loss without the side effects associated with conventional treatments like minoxidil. Studies suggest it may enhance hair growth by improving scalp circulation and reducing inflammation.
However, results can vary based on individual circumstances, and it's crucial to set realistic expectations. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment to ensure it's appropriate for your specific needs.
— Dr. Dimitar Marinov, MD, RDN, PhDWhile initial studies suggest that rosemary oil may offer some benefits for hair growth, more comprehensive research is needed to determine its effectiveness and safety compared to established treatments like minoxidil.
Sources and references
- Potential use of essential oils in cosmetic and dermatological hair products: A review
- Formulation and evaluation of hair growth enhancing effects of oleogels made from Rosemary and Cedar wood oils - ScienceDirect
- A Review of the Use of Biotin for Hair Loss - PMC
- Hair-Growth-Promoting Effects of the Fish Collagen Peptide in Human Dermal Papilla Cells and C57BL/6 Mice Modulating Wnt/β-Catenin and BMP Signaling Pathways
- How stress causes hair loss | National Institutes of Health (NIH)
- Effects of Hormones and Endocrine Disorders on Hair Growth - PMC
Author

Stephanie Wright
Stephanie brings over 13 years of diverse nursing experience to the table, having honed her expertise in critical care, mental health, and utilization management. Her journey as a registered nurse across these various healthcare sectors underscores her adaptability and deep commitment to patient care.
Fact checker

Dr. Dimitar Marinov
Dr. Marinov has years of experience in scientific research and preventive and clinical medicine. His publications in peer-reviewed journals are on nutritional status, physical activity, and musculoskeletal disorders among adolescents.
At VitaRx, we're not just passionate about our work — we take immense pride in it. Our dedicated team of writers diligently follows strict editorial standards, ensuring that every piece of content we publish is accurate, current, and highly valuable. We don't just strive for quality; we aim for excellence.
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