Is Rosemary Oil a Real Treatment or Just a Supplement?

In recent years, rosemary oil has gained popularity as a natural remedy for hair loss and other hair-related issues. Influencers and natural product brands promote it as an effective alternative to pharmaceutical treatments, claiming that it stimulates hair growth and strengthens follicles.

However, the key question is: Is it truly a science-backed treatment or just a supplement with limited benefits? To answer this, we will review clinical studies and scientific evidence that support (or refute) its effectiveness.

How Does Rosemary Oil Work on Hair?

Rosemary essential oil (Rosmarinus officinalis) is rich in bioactive compounds such as eucalyptol, camphor, and phenolic acids, which have been studied for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. When this oil comes into contact with the scalp, its components can penetrate the skin and act at different levels. It has been proposed that rosemary stimulates microcirculation in the area, which could increase blood flow to hair follicles and improve the supply of oxygen and essential nutrients for hair growth.

Additionally, some studies suggest that certain compounds in rosemary may inhibit the action of 5-alpha reductase, an enzyme responsible for converting testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the primary hormone implicated in androgenetic alopecia. By reducing DHT levels in the scalp, rosemary could help slow follicle miniaturization and prevent hair loss.

It is also attributed with antimicrobial properties, which could help maintain a healthier scalp environment, free of infections that can weaken follicles.

But what does the science say about it?

Scientific Evidence: Real Support or Limited Studies?

2015 Study: Rosemary Oil vs. Minoxidil

One of the most cited studies on rosemary oil and its potential effect on hair growth was published in Skinmed in 2015. This study was designed to directly compare the effectiveness of rosemary oil with 2% minoxidil, an FDA-approved drug for treating androgenetic alopecia.

Researchers conducted a randomized clinical trial involving 100 individuals diagnosed with androgenetic alopecia. Participants were divided into two groups: one applied rosemary oil to the scalp, while the other used 2% minoxidil, both for six months.

Results showed that, at the end of the study, both groups experienced an increase in hair count. However, the differences between the two treatments were not statistically significant, suggesting that rosemary oil might have an effect comparable to 2% minoxidil. Additionally, participants using rosemary oil reported fewer adverse effects, such as scalp irritation and itching, compared to those who used minoxidil.

Despite these promising findings, the study has certain limitations. First, the sample of 100 participants is relatively small to establish definitive conclusions. Second, the study duration was only six months, which does not allow for evaluating the long-term effects of rosemary oil. It is also relevant to note that the minoxidil concentration used was 2%, while the most commonly used and recommended concentration for treating androgenetic alopecia in men is 5%.

2013 Study: Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties of Rosemary

A study published in Phytotherapy Research in 2013 analyzed the potential of rosemary extract to stimulate hair regeneration. Researchers used a model of induced alopecia in mice, applying aqueous rosemary extract topically for three weeks.

Results showed an increase in hair density in mice treated with the extract compared to those that did not receive the application. The study suggested that rosemary could influence the anagen phase of hair growth, the active stage where hair grows. This indicates that some of its bioactive compounds may positively impact follicular activity.

However, the study has limitations. First, the research was conducted on mice, and effects observed in animal models do not always translate directly to humans. Additionally, the extract used was not rosemary essential oil but an aqueous solution, raising questions about whether the same effects would be achieved with oil. The study duration was also short, only three weeks, making it difficult to determine whether the benefits observed are sustainable over time or effective in advanced alopecia cases in humans.

Despite these points, the study provides a starting point for future research and suggests that rosemary’s active components may play a role in hair health. However, rigorous clinical trials in humans are needed before considering rosemary a reliable treatment for hair loss.

Why Is It Important to Differentiate Between a Treatment and a Supplement?

When looking for a solution to hair loss, it is crucial to distinguish between a treatment and a supplement. A treatment is a product or substance with scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness in directly addressing a specific condition, such as minoxidil, which is FDA-approved for hair growth. In contrast, a supplement is a product that may provide indirect benefits by improving overall hair health but lacks conclusive proof that it can reverse alopecia on its own.

Differentiating these concepts is essential because many people start using natural products expecting results similar to clinically approved drugs. However, a supplement can be a useful addition to a hair care routine but should not replace a clinical treatment if an effective, proven solution is sought.

User Experiences

Community feedback on rosemary oil as a hair loss treatment is mixed, with some users reporting positive effects while others remain skeptical.

Many users compare rosemary oil to minoxidil, citing a 2015 study that suggested rosemary oil was as effective as 2% minoxidil in treating androgenetic alopecia. However, several users pointed out that the study had limitations, including a small sample size and a relatively short duration. Some users noted that while rosemary oil may improve scalp circulation and reduce inflammation, it is unlikely to be as potent as minoxidil or finasteride in promoting regrowth.

A number of users shared their personal experiences using rosemary oil, with some reporting that it helped slow shedding and improved hair thickness over time. One user mentioned that after consistent use for several months, their hair felt healthier, but they did not see significant regrowth in bald areas. Another user emphasized that results varied depending on the individual and that rosemary oil might work best as a supplementary treatment rather than a primary solution.

On the other hand, some users were skeptical about rosemary oil’s effectiveness, stating that while it has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, it lacks the strong scientific backing of FDA-approved treatments like finasteride and minoxidil. A few users reported experiencing scalp irritation or increased shedding when using rosemary oil, though this was relatively uncommon. Others argued that any benefits seen were likely due to the massaging action during application rather than the oil itself.

Overall, community feedback suggests that rosemary oil is generally considered more of a supplement rather than a standalone treatment. Some users have incorporated it into their hair care routines alongside proven treatments like minoxidil or microneedling, but it is not widely viewed as a primary solution for significant hair regrowth. Those interested in using rosemary oil should manage their expectations and consider pairing it with clinically backed treatments for better results.

So, Is Rosemary Oil a Treatment or a Supplement?

Rosemary oil is available on the market in two main forms: as a topical treatment and as an oral supplement.

In its topical form, it is found in products such as hair serums, shampoos, and essential oils applied directly to the scalp. Popular brands on Amazon, such as Mielle Organics and Maple Holistics, sell rosemary oils specifically formulated for hair growth.

On the other hand, rosemary is also sold in capsule or liquid extract form for oral consumption, based on the premise that its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties can improve hair health from within. However, its direct impact on hair loss has not been sufficiently studied. Examples of these supplements include products from Nature’s Way and Gaia Herbs, which contain rosemary extract in regulated doses.

Despite these different forms, scientific studies have primarily evaluated rosemary oil’s effectiveness in topical applications. The most relevant research to date suggests that rosemary oil may have beneficial effects when applied to the scalp, but there are no clinical trials supporting its oral use as an effective treatment for hair loss.

This suggests that its effect is mostly indirect when ingested and more specific when applied directly to the affected area.

In that sense, rosemary oil is more accurately categorized as a supplement or complement in a hair care routine rather than a medically proven treatment.

In summary...

Although rosemary oil has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and circulatory properties that may promote hair growth, scientific evidence remains limited. Some studies suggest it may have an effect comparable to 2% minoxidil, but the research is scarce and methodologically limited. Therefore, while its use can be beneficial within a hair care routine, it should not be considered a replacement for medically approved treatments for alopecia.

References

Panahi, Y., Taghizadeh, M., Marzony, E. T., & Sahebkar, A. (2015). Rosemary oil vs minoxidil 2% for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: A randomized comparative trial. Skinmed, 13(1), 15-21. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25521836/

Murata, K., Noguchi, K., Kondo, M., Onishi, Y., Ogasawara, T., Hasegawa, T., & Mizushina, Y. (2013). Promotion of hair growth by Rosmarinus officinalis leaf extract. Phytotherapy Research, 27(2), 212-217. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22644765/