Systematic Evaluation of Rosemary Essential Oil in Aromatherapy Practice: A Review

November 2025 in “ Natural Product Communications ”

Milica Aćimović, Ana Miljković

rosemary essential oil 1,8-cineole camphor α-pinene androgenetic alopecia contact dermatitis anaphylaxis rosemary oil

TLDR Rosemary essential oil can improve mood, sleep, and cognitive function but may cause allergies, so use it carefully.

Rosemary essential oil, containing compounds like 1,8-cineole, camphor, and α-pinene, offers therapeutic benefits such as enhanced cognitive function, improved sleep quality, mood enhancement, and pain management. It also shows potential in treating androgenetic alopecia. The oil is used in aromatherapy through massage or inhalation, either pure or diluted. However, it can cause allergic reactions, including contact dermatitis and rare anaphylaxis, necessitating caution, especially for sensitive individuals. This review compiles evidence on its benefits and risks, emphasizing informed use in clinical and home settings.

View this study on journals.sagepub.com →

Discuss this study in the Community →

Related Community Posts Join

6 / 1000+ results

community Been doing daily 3% topical peppermint oil for 6+ months (never used minoxidil). Have had growth that seems as good as minoxidil. Might strenghten the idea that peppermint is a good low-cost treatment, that potentially works by another route than minoxidil.

in Treatment 14 upvotes 3 years ago

The user has been using finasteride, nizoral, microneedling, and recently added 3% peppermint oil to their hair loss treatment, experiencing regrowth similar to minoxidil. They suggest peppermint oil as a potentially effective, low-cost alternative or addition to minoxidil, with the added benefit of a pleasant smell and ease of use.

community Microneedling without any meds - A few worries

in Microneedling 2 upvotes 1 year ago

The user has seen great results from microneedling but is worried it might lead to faster balding without medication. They are considering adding Finasteride or Dutasteride to their routine to address underlying DHT issues.

community Reddit’s Amatorial microneedling meta analysis of 11 different Clinical studies for a Total of 559 patients (Scalp microneedling + topical minoxidil 5%, safety, efficacy and Ideal protocol)

in Microneedling 329 upvotes 3 years ago

Microneedling with 5% minoxidil improves hair growth for hair loss patients. Best protocol: 1.5mm dermaroller weekly for 12 weeks or 0.6mm dermapen every 2 weeks for 12 weeks, skipping topicals for 24 hours.

community Using Rosemary and other essential Oils

in Product 7 upvotes 3 years ago

The conversation discusses creating a mix of essential oils for hair regrowth, questioning the proper mix ratio for single or multiple oils. It also mentions using finasteride and minoxidil for hair loss treatment, alongside oils, shampoos, and microneedling to improve scalp conditions for hair regrowth.

community 3 months progress- fin/min/LLLT/pumpkin seed oil/ Rosemary oil added to shampoo.

in Progress Pictures 285 upvotes 4 years ago

A user shared their 3-month hair loss progress using finasteride, minoxidil, low-level light therapy, pumpkin seed oil, and rosemary oil. The user saw a reduction in balding crown size but couldn't determine which treatment was most effective.

community 3 months of hair treatment! I think I’m hyper responsive to my treatment. Finasteride, biotin pills, derma roller with rosemary/jojoba oil applied after, coffee in the morning for caffeine . No diet or alcohol consumption changes.

in Progress Pictures 491 upvotes 1 year ago

The user reports significant hair regrowth after three months using finasteride, biotin pills, a derma roller with rosemary/jojoba oil, and drinking coffee, despite an initial increase in hair shedding. Other users share varied results with similar treatments, with some not experiencing improvements.

Similar Research

5 / 357 results

research Rosmarinus Officinalis Essential Oil Increases Hair Length and Follicle Diameter of Ultraviolet B-Exposed Mice Through VEGF

August 2023 in “The Indonesian Biomedical Journal”

Rosemary essential oil improved hair growth and thickness in UVB-exposed mice.

Essential Oils and Their Single Compounds in Cosmetics: A Critical Review

research An Overview of Commonly Used Natural Alternatives for the Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia, with Special Emphasis on Rosemary Oil

November 2024 in “Clinical Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology”

Rosemary oil may effectively treat hair loss with fewer side effects, but more research is needed.