Rosemary for Hair Growth: Why This Ancient Herb Is Making a Comeback

When my dear friend suddenly passed away, I had massive hair loss! There are a few key things I did to restore my hair both inside and out.

Rosemary was an essential part of my routine. This aromatic Mediterranean herb, long revered in the kitchen, is now a viral sensation for its ability to revitalise thinning hair and soothe the scalp. 

Why Rosemary for Hair?

Rosemary is more than just a trend. In 2015, a trial conducted by Panahi et al. titled "Rosemary oil vs. Minoxidil 2% for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: a randomised comparative trial." In this randomised trial, 50 patients used rosemary oil, and 50 used 2% minoxidil twice daily for 6 months. Both groups saw significant increases in hair count and;

• Rosemary oil applied twice daily matched the efficacy of 2% topical minoxidil for hair regrowth in individuals with androgenetic alopecia.

• Rosemary showed similar improvements in hair count at six months.

• Notably, rosemary oil caused less scalp irritation compared to minoxidil.

It is exciting to see the power of plants surpass traditional medicine in a sound scientific trial and produce the same results, as plants/herbs are often regarded as weaker than drugs.

So now you know the science behind the rosemary buzz, let’s unpack why rosemary may be your hair’s new best friend.

1. Improves Scalp Circulation

Rosemary naturally stimulates blood flow when applied to the scalp, delivering oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles — a key factor in boosting growth.

2. Blocks Hair Thinning Hormones

Some studies suggest rosemary oil may help block DHT (dihydrotestosterone), a hormone linked to hair thinning and male/female pattern baldness.

3. Anti-Inflammatory & Antioxidant Power

Rosemary is rich in compounds like rosmarinic acid and carnosic acid, which fight inflammation and oxidative stress — two major contributors to hair loss.

4. Antimicrobial Action

Its natural antimicrobial properties help keep the scalp clean, reducing dandruff and itchiness that can hinder healthy hair growth.

5. Balances Scalp Oil

Rosemary can regulate sebum production, making it ideal for both dry and oily scalps.

DIY Rosemary Hair Spray Recipe

Rosemary Tonic Ingredients

• 1 cup filtered water

• 1 tbsp dried rosemary (or two fresh sprigs)

• 3–5 drops rosemary essential oil

• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (optional for pH balance, and I add this based on my Ouma and my German Aunty teaching me the benefits many years ago)

Method, Not Madness!

1. Boil the water and steep the rosemary for 15 minutes.

2. Let it cool, then strain and mix in the essential oil and vinegar.

3. Pour into a spray bottle and store in the fridge for up to 7 days.

Spray onto your scalp daily and gently massage in with your fingertips. It can be used morning and night. I use it once a day, but to achieve faster results, you can apply it twice a day, as suggested in the clinical trial.

Safe use guidelines; Not suitable for children under 7, limited research exists on rosemary oil’s safety during lactation and avoid application near the chest/breast area to prevent infant exposure. Discontinue if any irritation, dizziness, or reaction occurs. Rosemary oil may trigger seizures in susceptible individuals, so avoid it and consult your health care provider if pregnant or taking any medications for your particular case.

Inside-Out Support with Rejuv Supplements

In addition to my homemade rosemary hair tonic, I paired it with internal support supplements for maximum results:

• Rejuv Anti-Ageing Capsules: These capsules deliver antioxidants and adaptogens that combat oxidative stress and support healthy hair, skin, and nails. These are key factors in preventing hair thinning and dullness. They include marine collagen, rosemary, silica, biotin, and hyaluronic acid.

• Rejuv Bone Joint & Skin Capsules: Rich in MSM, silica from bamboo, and the herb horsetail, as well as ginseng and collagen-supporting nutrients, these capsules strengthen hair from the inside out, improve scalp integrity, and aid in cellular regeneration.

Can you use Rejuv Supplements Topically?

Yes! You can certainly open a capsule (especially Anti-Ageing Capsules) and stir in 2 capsules into your hair tonic once it has cooled. Just shake well before each use and perform a patch test if you have sensitive skin.