Is it better to use peppermint alone or combine it with rosemary or lavender?

Exploring the benefits of peppermint (Mentha piperita) is like opening the door to a garden of fresh and versatile therapeutic possibilities. But when that door also lets in rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) and lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), the inevitable question arises:

Do they work better together, or does each shine more on its own? This is not only of interest to those seeking natural solutions but also to researchers wondering if botanical synergies can offer superior therapeutic effects.

In this article, we’ll also focus on an essential topic that runs through this conversation: scalp health.

More specifically, we’ll address whether peppermint, alone or in combination with rosemary or lavender, can be effective against conditions like androgenetic alopecia, alopecia areata, and hair loss related to dihydrotestosterone (DHT).

The power of peppermint: what can it achieve on its own?

Peppermint has been used for centuries by various cultures to relieve numerous ailments.

Today we know that much of its benefits come from menthol, one of its most studied active compounds. Menthol has antispasmodic properties, meaning it helps relax smooth muscles, such as those lining the gastrointestinal tract, and produces a cooling sensation that acts as a mild analgesic in topical applications.

But its properties aren’t limited to the digestive system. There are studies that have explored its topical use on the scalp as a hair growth stimulant.

In 2014, a preclinical study conducted by Korean researchers and published in Toxicological Research compared the effects of four topical treatments on hair regeneration: saline solution, jojoba oil, 3% minoxidil, and 3% peppermint oil. These were applied daily for four weeks to laboratory mice.

The results showed that the group treated with peppermint oil experienced superior hair growth, even compared to the minoxidil group. The evaluation involved assessing both hair density and follicle depth through histological analysis.

Peppermint and rosemary: a combination that awakens the mind and stimulates the scalp

Rosemary has long been recognized as a traditional remedy against hair loss, and science is beginning to confirm its potential.

In 2023, a clinical study published in PubMed Central evaluated the topical use of rosemary extract in 60 patients with androgenetic alopecia (a common type of hair loss related to genetic sensitivity to DHT). For six months, patients applied either a rosemary lotion or 2% minoxidil twice a day. Researchers used standardized scalp photography, hair counts, and visual assessment scales. At the end of the study, both groups showed similar hair growth improvements, but the rosemary group reported less itching and irritation.

When peppermint is combined with rosemary, some studies and anecdotal experiences suggest that the effects may be enhanced, especially in terms of stimulating blood circulation in the scalp, which is key for healthy hair growth. A review published in 2024 analyzed the effect of combined essential oils on human dermal cell lines.

The blend of rosemary and peppermint showed greater proliferative activity than when used separately. Although this study was conducted in cell cultures and not humans, it provides a mechanistic basis supporting the hypothesis of synergy between these compounds.

Peppermint and lavender: a relaxing duo with possible indirect effects on hair loss

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is widely known for its ability to reduce stress, anxiety, and improve sleep quality. While these benefits may seem secondary when discussing hair loss, the reality is more complex.

Alopecia areata, an autoimmune disorder characterized by sudden and localized hair loss, is often associated with sustained high levels of stress. In this context, lavender could exert an indirect effect by mitigating one of the factors that aggravate this condition.

A more recent preclinical study evaluated the effects of lavender essential oil in mice over four weeks. Researchers observed that groups treated with 3% and 5% lavender solutions showed a significant increase in the number of hair follicles, faster hair growth, and better density compared to control and placebo groups. Additionally, histological analysis revealed active cell proliferation in the dermis, suggesting that lavender may have a direct effect on the hair growth cycle.

In combination with peppermint, lavender could enhance both circulatory stimulation

(thanks to menthol) and the relief of tension that could be negatively impacting scalp health. There’s no clinical trial yet in humans that directly evaluates this duo in alopecia patients, but the combination has been explored in cosmetics and aromatherapy treatments for overall scalp wellness.

Various products on the market harness this combination

One of them is Difeel Rosemary & Mint Biotin Conditioner, which, although it doesn’t mention lavender in the name, includes lavender essential oils in its formula. Amazon users report improvements in hair thickness and a calming sensation during use. Another relevant product is Peppermint & Rosemary Hair Regrowth Conditioner, which also includes lavender and has been praised by people with sensitive or irritation-prone scalps. Many users note reduced itching and smoother hair after a month of consistent use.

On the other hand,

DHT (dihydrotestosterone) is a hormone derived from testosterone that plays a key role in androgenetic alopecia. Its excess or increased sensitivity to it can trigger a miniaturization process in hair follicles, weakening the hair until growth stops. Pharmacological treatments like finasteride have been specifically developed to inhibit the 5-alpha reductase enzyme, responsible for converting testosterone into DHT.

In this context, some natural extracts like rosemary have garnered interest for their potential inhibitory effect on this enzyme. In vitro and animal studies have shown that rosemary might have some capacity to reduce DHT levels in the scalp, helping preserve follicles. However, although the observed effects resemble those of minoxidil in terms of hair growth, it cannot be claimed that the efficacy is equivalent. As a phytocompound, rosemary tends to have fewer side effects, but its action may be milder or more dependent on time and consistency of use.

Peppermint, on the other hand, has not demonstrated direct effects on DHT production or on 5-alpha reductase, but plays a key role as a circulatory stimulant. It improves local blood flow thanks to menthol, which may favor oxygenation and nourishment of the hair follicle. In that sense, its action could be seen as complementary in treatments aimed at blocking DHT activity.

While pharmaceutical treatments like finasteride or minoxidil are designed to act directly on hormonal or cellular mechanisms

Natural extracts like rosemary and peppermint may offer complementary benefits. Their effectiveness, while not equivalent to mainstream medications, could still be integrated into a combined approach, especially for individuals seeking gentler or more natural options to manage androgenetic alopecia.

Combined products

Across various online retail platforms, products that combine peppermint, rosemary, and lavender essential oils have received a significant volume of positive feedback, especially among individuals seeking natural alternatives to conventional hair loss treatments.

For example, conditioners like "Peppermint & Rosemary Regrowth Conditioner" or oils from Handcraft Blends, which combine rosemary with peppermint, are often praised for providing an immediate refreshing sensation to the scalp and, after several weeks of consistent use, improvements in hair thickness and volume. In some cases, the appearance of fine new hairs in weakened areas is mentioned.

When the formula also includes lavender, as seen in products that prioritize overall scalp well-being, comments often highlight reduced irritation, a relaxing experience during use, and a visible reduction in flaking. While these observations do not constitute clinical evidence, they reflect a widespread positive perception of the combined use of these ingredients.

User Experiences

Community discussions on Tressless provide a variety of anecdotal insights into the use of peppermint oil alone versus in combination with rosemary or lavender oils for hair regrowth. A popular thread specifically comparing these oils — “Peppermint Oil vs Lavender Oil vs Rosemary Oil vs Pumpkin Seed Oil - Which one/combination is best?” — reveals a consensus leaning toward combining essential oils for better results rather than using peppermint alone.

One user noted that while peppermint oil offers a cooling sensation and improved circulation, combining it with rosemary oil seemed to yield better regrowth, particularly in temple and crown areas. Another user supported this, stating they felt the rosemary and peppermint duo “stimulates and strengthens” more effectively, especially when diluted in a carrier oil like jojoba or coconut oil. Lavender was frequently mentioned for its anti-inflammatory and calming properties, which some users found helpful when dealing with scalp irritation or inflammation-driven hair loss.

Another commenter who had used peppermint oil alone for a few months reported only marginal thickening, but after introducing rosemary and lavender oils into their routine, they observed visible regrowth and improved scalp health. This sentiment was echoed by others who believed peppermint acts more as a stimulant, while rosemary and lavender contribute regenerative and anti-inflammatory benefits that create a more favorable environment for hair regrowth.

There was also discussion on formulation. Several users advised that mixing all three essential oils (peppermint, rosemary, lavender) in a balanced ratio and applying 3–4 times a week was more effective than using any one oil alone. Some even combined them with microneedling or dermarolling for enhanced penetration and results.

In another thread titled “Why don’t more people here use oils?”, users debated the efficacy of oils versus pharmaceuticals. Some stated that essential oils, particularly combinations like rosemary and peppermint, gave them side-effect-free improvements, though usually at a slower rate compared to minoxidil or finasteride. Skeptics in the same thread questioned the potency of natural oils, suggesting they may serve better as supportive or adjunct treatments rather than standalone solutions.

A third post from a user using oral minoxidil alongside peppermint and rosemary oils mentioned no side effects and expressed optimism about adding a dermaroller to enhance results. This reflects a common community practice of combining oils with pharmaceutical and mechanical treatments for a synergistic approach.

In summary, based on user feedback, combinations — especially peppermint with rosemary and optionally lavender — are considered more effective than using peppermint alone. Users highlight enhanced regrowth, reduced irritation, and better overall scalp health with combinations. Still, many recommend pairing oils with other treatments for optimal outcomes.

Conclusion: stronger together

Peppermint is a plant with well-established therapeutic applications, especially in the digestive realm, but its versatility extends to hair care. Its ability to stimulate circulation and refresh the scalp makes it an ideal candidate for combination with other herbs. The most robust evidence so far points to rosemary as a key ally, particularly against androgenetic alopecia. Lavender, while not acting directly on the follicle, may be a valuable support in cases where stress worsens hair loss.

These plant combinations are not only safe when used appropriately but may also produce synergistic effects that are hard to achieve with isolated ingredients. As more human clinical research emerges, these formulas may be solidified as complementary—not equivalent—treatments to pharmaceutical options like minoxidil or finasteride.

While these drugs are designed to act directly on specific hormonal or cellular mechanisms, natural extracts tend to offer indirect or parallel but not yet superior benefits, such as improved circulation, sebum regulation, or stress reduction.

References

PHARM TABLE. (s.f.). PHARM TABLE Rosemary Leave-In Conditioner. Amazon. Recuperado de https://www.amazon.com/PHARM-TABLE-Rosemary-Leave-Conditioner/dp/B0CH8SHX1C​

Handcraft Blends. (s.f.). Handcraft Blends Organic Rosemary Peppermint Oil. Amazon. Recuperado de https://www.amazon.com/Handcraft-Blends-Organic-Rosemary-Peppermint/dp/B0CCFZ9F1X/​

Sunny Isle. (s.f.). Sunny Isle Rosemary Strengthen Follicles. Amazon. Recuperado de https://www.amazon.com/Sunny-Isle-Rosemary-Strengthen-Follicles/dp/B0DXN44WSR/​

First Botany. (s.f.). Peppermint Rosemary Hair Regrowth Conditioner. Amazon. Recuperado de https://www.amazon.com/Peppermint-Rosemary-Hair-Regrowth-Conditioner/dp/B0D7N71XQJ/​

Difeel. (s.f.). Difeel Rosemary Mint Premium Biotin Conditioner. Amazon. Recuperado de https://www.amazon.com/Difeel-Rosemary-Mint-Premium-Biotin/dp/B0B64BKP2Q/​

Artículos científicos:

Bin Rubaian, N. F., Alzamami, H. F. A., & Amir, B. A. (2024). An overview of commonly used natural alternatives for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia, with special emphasis on rosemary oil. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 17, 2495–2503. https://doi.org/10.2147/CCID.S470989​

Boese, J., Nakashima, M., & Glaze, L. E. (1985). Extraction of light filth from whole peppermint leaves: Collaborative study. Journal of the Association of Official Analytical Chemists, 68(4), 697–698. Recuperado de https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/4030641/​

Lee, B. H., Lee, J. S., & Kim, Y. C. (2016). Hair growth-promoting effects of lavender oil in C57BL/6 mice. Toxicological Research, 32(2), 103–108. https://doi.org/10.5487/TR.2016.32.2.103