Rosemary Water for Hair Growth: Scientific Evidence and Results

The Rosemary Water for Hair Trend

A popular trend gaining traction on TikTok and social media is using rosemary water as a DIY treatment for hair care and growth. Numerous videos demonstrate recipes for homemade rosemary water and user testimonials praise its ability to improve hair thickness, strength, and shine. But is there any science backing up these hair care claims? Let's take a closer look.

What is Rosemary Water?

Rosemary water is simply water that has been infused with the fresh or dried leaves and stems of the rosemary plant. It can be made fairly easily at home by boiling rosemary with water for 5-10 minutes and allowing it to steep once cooled. The water absorbs active compounds from the rosemary, giving it a light medicinal scent.

This aromatic, herb-infused water can then be applied directly to the hair and scalp for purported hair-boosting benefits. The process is similar to making herbal tea for drinking, but instead it is being used topically as a DIY hair treatment.

Using Rosemary Water for Hair Care

On TikTok, beauty influencers demonstrate various methods for using rosemary water in a hair care regimen. Most advocates recommend using it as a rinse after shampooing by pouring or spraying it onto the hair and scalp. Allow it to soak in for a few minutes before rinsing out and conditioning as usual.

Other popular suggestions include:

• Mixing it with oil and massaging onto the scalp
• Using it to soak hair wraps overnight
• Mixing it in a spray bottle with water to mist onto hair between washes

The goal is to thoroughly coat the hair with the rosemary infusion so the scalp and strands are able to absorb its purported benefits.

Rosemary Water Benefits for Hair

Rosemary water is primarily touted for its potential ability to:

• Increase hair growth and thickness
• Improve hair shine and smoothness
• Prevent hair loss and thinning
• Cleanse the scalp and clear buildup/blockage

Essentially, it is claimed that routine use of rosemary water can boost scalp health and stimulate faster, thicker hair growth resulting in a luminous, flowing mane. But what does the science say?

Scientific Research on Rosemary for Hair

There has been some promising research indicating rosemary oil and extract may positively impact hair growth. A 2015 study found that rosemary oil showed similar efficacy to the hair growth drug minoxidil in boosting hair count in people with androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness).

Another study in 2013 observed increased hair growth in rats given oral doses of rosemary leaf extract. Researchers noted this may have been due to rosemary's circulation boosting effects.

However, current research has focused solely on supplemental forms like rosemary oil and extracts taken orally or applied directly to the scalp. There are no studies investigating hair benefits from rosemary water itself.

Active Compounds in Rosemary

It is known that rosemary contains beneficial bioactive compounds such carnosic acid and rosmarinic acid. These antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds are thought to be involved in stimulating circulation as well as enhancing cellular protection and regulation.

But whether steeping rosemary leaves in hot water allows for efficient transference and absorption of enough of these actives to impact hair at a molecular level is unknown.

Anecdotal Evidence for Rosemary Water

While scientific evidence may be lacking, there are legions of glowing anecdotal testimonials that demonstrate rosemary water can positively improve hair's appearance and growth rate. Numerous online reviews, social media posts, videos, and blogs detail impressive before-and-after differences and seem to support claims of its efficacy.

Satisfied users report noticing faster growth, increased thickness, strengthened strands, a healthier scalp, and shinier, silkier hair after using rosemary water hair treatments. This type of first-hand evidence can be meaningful despite the lack of current studies.

How to Make Rosemary Water at Home

Ready to tap into the beautifying potential of rosemary water? Making rosemary infusion at home is simple. Here is an easy DIY rosemary water recipe to try:

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh rosemary leaves/sprigs (or 1/2 cup dried)
• 4 cups water

Method

1. Boil the water and pour into a heat-safe container/bowl with the rosemary.
2. Let steep covered for 15-30 minutes as it cools to infuse the water.
3. Strain the rosemary water into a storage container or spray bottle.
4. Store excess in the fridge for up to a week. Shake before use.

Feel free to adjust amounts based on your hair length and thickness. Some also substitute the water for green tea or herbal teas to further enrich the mix.

Tips

• Use fresh rosemary when possible for stronger infusion
• Steep for longer periods to make it more potent
• Can also infuse oils, vinegars, alcohols, glycerites etc

Now you have an easy, customizable DIY rosemary hair rinse to try!

When to Expect Results

Patience is key when incorporating any new product in your hair care routine. Consistency and diligence in application method is also vital to see results.

That said, some users report noticing positive differences - such as improved smoothness/shine and new growth - after a couple weeks of using rosemary water. More dramatic changes in density and thickness tend to take 2-4 months of continued use.

It is best to make rosemary water part of your regular hair care regimen for at least 3-6 months if hoping to achieve luscious locks. Taking progress photos can help track subtle changes in texture, growth speed, etc. Be sure to use it as directed for maximum hair-boosting effects.

Should You Try Rosemary Water?

While clinical research may not yet confirm whether rosemary effectively benefits hair in water form, evidence suggests it likely won't cause much harm to try it. At the very least, you can expect a naturally-fragranced, invigorating scalp treatment.

Anecdotal praise continues to validate claims that homemade rosemary water can amplify shine, smoothness, strength, and growth rate when used consistently. It offers an easy, affordable DIY approach if seeking natural methods for improving hair health and beauty.

At worst, no noticeable change may occur even after diligent use. But who knows - it may just help you achieve the thicker, flowing locks you've always dreamed of!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.