Randomized Trial of Aromatherapy for Alopecia Areata

In a randomized, double-blind, controlled trial from 1998 involving 86 patients with alopecia areata, researchers found that aromatherapy using essential oils (thyme, rosemary, lavender, and cedarwood) mixed with carrier oils (jojoba and grapeseed) led to significant improvement in hair growth. The active group of 43 patients who used the essential oil mixture showed a 44% improvement rate, while only 15% of the control group of 41 patients using just carrier oils showed improvement. The efficacy of the treatment was assessed using sequential photographs, a 6-point scale, and computerized analysis, all indicating statistically significant better outcomes for the active group. The study concluded that aromatherapy with these specific essential oils is a safe and effective treatment for alopecia areata.