Rosemary oil for hair growth: does it really work?

Most of us are used to popping a sprig or two of rosemary in our roast dinner. But aside from the cooking connection, it’s thought to be a very versatile herb with wellness and beauty benefits too. There’s a lot of buzz online about the alleged benefits of rosemary oil for hair growth, with views of #rosemaryoil reaching billions on TikTok and even an increase in searches on our own site, as shown in our Wellness Trends report.¹ But what does rosemary oil actually do and how do you use it? We’ll dive into the details...

Rosemary essential oil is made from the rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) shrub, an evergreen plant characterised by its needle-like leaves and woody fragrance. Rosemary oil is extracted from the leaves and yellow flowers of rosemary shrubs. While these shrubs may be native to the Mediterranean, they can be found growing in the UK, Mexico, America and northern Africa.²

A small number of studies suggest rosemary oil may affect some measures of hair growth, but the evidence is still limited. A study from 2015, involving 100 patients with androgenetic alopecia, found that those using rosemary oil for six months experienced similar results to those using minoxidil (a medicine commonly used to treat hair loss).³ A small 2020 study in 24 men found that adding a topical herbal formulation containing rosemary oil, olive oil and saw palmetto to 5% minoxidil improved hair diameter compared with minoxidil alone. However, because the formulation contained several ingredients, the effect cannot be attributed to rosemary oil alone and larger studies are needed.⁴

Overall, the evidence for rosemary oil and hair growth is still limited and more high-quality research is needed before we can say how effective it is. Whether you want to see results or you just enjoy its sweet earthiness, it could be worth a go. And while you're here, learn how to care for thinning hair or check out our top hair vitamins for alternative ways to look after your locks...

Disclaimer – This article provides informational advice and is not a substitute for medical care. Working with experts for accuracy, we take great care to ensure the information is up-to-date and relevant. However, you should always consult your GP or healthcare professional before using supplements or alternative products, particularly if you have medical conditions or are under supervision. Hair thinning and hair loss can have many different causes. If you're concerned about changes in your hair or scalp, speak to a qualified healthcare professional for appropriate advice.