Does Rosemary Water Spray Really Make Hair Grow Faster? Research and Tips

The Potential Benefits of Rosemary for Hair

Rosemary is an aromatic herb that has long been used in traditional medicine for a variety of purposes. In recent years, beauty enthusiasts have been exploring the potential hair benefits of rosemary, with many claiming it can help encourage faster hair growth, improve scalp health, and add shine.

The idea of using rosemary for hair care originally stemmed from its high antioxidant content. Antioxidants help combat oxidative stress and free radical damage, both of which can impact follicle health. Some early research also indicated the herb may potentially stimulate circulation in the scalp. Improved blood flow brings more nutrients to hair follicles, which supports growth.

Making and Applying DIY Rosemary Sprays

There are a few different methods for making homemade rosemary hair treatments, but one of the most popular involves creating a simple herb-infused spray:

• Add a handful of fresh or dried rosemary leaves to a pot of boiling water
• Let the herbs steep for 15-30 minutes to infuse the water
• Strain the rosemary water into a spray bottle
• Spritz the rosemary spray directly onto your scalp and massage it in

You can use this spray as often as 1-2 times per day. Some enjoy spraying it onto their scalp a few minutes before showering. Rosemary essential oil can also be diluted into a carrier oil like jojoba and used in a similar fashion.

What Does Research Say About Rosemary and Hair Growth?

Despite the popularity of these homemade rosemary hair treatments, current research on their efficacy is lacking. Small studies have looked at rosemary leaf extract and essential oil for hair loss, but more evidence is still needed.

One promising option is to use rosemary alongside other natural ingredients that have more robust clinical data for hair growth. For example, one study found that a combination spray of rosemary, lavender, cedarwood and thyme oils helped improve hair count in people experiencing alopecia areata.

Considerations for Using Rosemary for Hair Care

While rosemary shows potential for benefiting hair based on its antioxidant content, keep the following considerations in mind:

Possible Skin Irritation

Pure essential oils can sometimes irritate the skin when applied directly. Doing a patch test before using a new rosemary oil or spray can help identify any negative reactions.

Interactions with Medications

Anyone currently taking prescription medications should check with their doctor before using rosemary supplements or essential oil internally. Rosemary can potentially interact with certain medications metabolized by the liver.

Inconsistent Results

While some people claim exceptional results using rosemary for hair growth and thickness, results seem to vary quite a bit from person to person. Consistency is key for seeing optimal benefits.

Other Potential Hair Health Strategies

In addition to rosemary, other natural approaches may also help encourage healthy hair growth:

Massage

Gently massaging the scalp helps increase blood circulation, bringing more nutrients to hair follicles.

Onion Juice

Early research indicates applying onion juice topically can potentially help with hair regrowth.

Stress Management

Chronic stress takes a toll on the entire body, including hair health and growth cycles. Relaxation techniques like meditation help mitigate stress.

Balanced Nutrition

Getting enough protein, vitamins and minerals provides the building blocks for building strong, healthy hair.

While rosemary shows some initial promise, more research is still needed. In the meantime, those looking to encourage hair growth have plenty of other evidence-backed options to explore as well.

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.