Rosemary oil has gained popularity as a natural hair growth remedy, but does it really work? Some studies suggest it may be as effective as Rogaine (minoxidil). If you’re wondering whether rosemary oil can regrow hair, reduce thinning, and strengthen your scalp, here’s what the science says—and how to use it for the best results.

What Studies Say About Rosemary Oil for Hair Growth

Rosemary oil is extracted from the rosemary leaves and flowery tops of Rosmarinus officinalis, the plant’s scientific name. Rosemary oil, as well as its leaves, is often used for medicinal reasons.

A 2024 study of 407 people responding to a questionnaire found that 48% of them had used rosemary for a health purpose. Of these, most had chosen the oil and 82% had chosen rosemary to improve their hair.

Rosemary serves as a vasodilator (to open blood vessels), and some researchers suggest that its ability to improve blood flow boosts the ability of hair to become thick, healthy, and well attached to the scalp. It is thought to:

• Stimulate hair follicles
• Improve scalp health
• Strengthen the hair shaft

How to Make Rosemary Oil at Home

When applied to the hair, you can mix a few drops of the rosemary oil with a carrier oil, like olive oil or avocado oil. You can buy products with the oil or mix a few drops of the oil with your shampoo or conditioner, but never apply the undiluted essential oil directly to the hair or scalp.

You can:

• Add a few drops of rosemary oil to your shampoo. Do not add too much to avoid skin irritation. Start with two or three drops per application of the shampoo product (such as a dollop of the shampoo the size of a U.S. quarter).
• Find recipes for homemade rosemary oil online. You can apply rosemary essential oil directly to the scalp, but you must dilute it using a carrier oil first.

Carrier oils, like argan oil, coconut oil, or sunflower oil, can help you use rosemary oil safely.

What Studies Say About Rosemary Oil for Hair Loss

One 2015 study found that rosemary oil could help treat androgenic alopecia (a common type of hair loss associated with sex hormones, including testosterone) and reduce the hair loss associated with the condition.

Researchers believe rosemary oil works by stimulating hair growth and blocking the effects of a type of testosterone, which shrinks hair follicles and leads to hair loss. In this study, participants used rosemary oil for six months. The results showed effects similar to those of minoxidil.

In a similar 2022 study in animals, researchers blended rosemary oil and/or cedarwood oil into vegetable oil gels (oleogels). For six weeks, they treated rats with hair that had been removed with creams. They compared the oleogel results with minoxidil 2%, the main ingredient in popular hair growth products such as Rogaine. The rosemary oelogel was found to have similar effects as minoxidil.

If you do massage rosemary oil into your hair, you do not have to rinse out. If you choose to rinse it out, do so after the solution is on the scalp for at least a few minutes. The National Association of Holistic Aromatherapy recommends no more than 20 drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier.

Other Uses for Rosemary Oil

Researchers identify a number of hair conditions associated with hair loss, including:

• Dandruff
• Dry hair
• Split ends
• Frizzy hair
• Dull hair

Heat damage and other problems are common. The other uses of rosemary oil may include improving texture, moisture, and shine with regular use. Using essential oil-carrier oil solution daily in your hair or scalp is generally safe, provided you do not use too much rosemary oil.

Hair growth is high on the list, but rosemary oil also is used for skin care, wound healing, anxiety and stress relief, and other purposes. In most cases, the oil is applied topically (on the skin or hair). People also report using rosemary oil for:

• Digestive disorders and symptoms
• Improving memory
• Joint pain and problems
• Treating high cholesterol

Keep in mind that rosemary oil may present risks to people who take medications for other conditions, such as blood thinners or high blood pressure treatments. It’s also possible to experience skin irritation or an allergic reaction. Talk to your healthcare provider about rosemary oil.

Summary 

Rosemary essential oil has been used to promote hair growth, and research shows that it may be as effective as some commercial hair growth products. It might also help prevent hair loss, dandruff, and premature graying. You should dilute the oil with a carrier oil before using it in your hair, or purchase products that already contain rosemary oil.

Topical use of rosemary oil is generally safe, although allergic reactions and skin irritation are possible. Some people should check with their healthcare providers whether it is safe to use rosemary oil topically. This includes pregnant and breastfeeding people and people with certain health conditions or who take certain medications.

A Word From Verywell

If you are experiencing hair loss or hair thinning, it is always best to see a board-certified dermatologist to evaluate the type of hair loss. This can help guide the best treatment options.