Essential oils for hair health and growth

Certain essential oils are common ingredients in hair care products and may benefit hair by improving hair growth, scalp health, and texture. Essential oils are extracted from plants through methods like distillation or evaporation. While essential oils are most famous for their aromatic capabilities, they also contain strong chemical properties that may benefit health. Alternative, Eastern, and homeopathic medicine traditions have long-used essential oils as natural remedies. Certain essential oils may benefit your hair and scalp health when properly diluted. Keep reading to learn about essential oils for hair and their possible benefits.

Lavender essential oil
Lavender essential oil contains beneficial bioactive compounds that can have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antifungal effects. This essential oil may possibly benefit scalp health, though more research is still needed on its direct effects on human scalp and hair health. Some people add a few drops of lavender oil into a carrier oil, like olive oil or melted coconut oil, and apply it directly to the scalp as a hair mask.

Peppermint essential oil
Peppermint oil contains  menthol, which can cause a cold, tingling feeling when applied to the skin. One 2014 study found that peppermint oil increased the number of follicles, follicle depth, and overall hair growth when used on mice. However, additional research is needed to determine if these benefits also apply to human hair.

Rosemary essential oil
Rosemary essential oil may help improve hair thickness and growth thanks to its ability to enhance cellular generation. According to an older 2015 study , rosemary oil performed as well as minoxidil, a common hair growth treatment, but with less scalp itching as a side effect. Additional studies have also used it for alopecia in mixtures of other essential oils.

Extra Tip:
In addition to essential oils, you can simply add to your pre-wash hair routine some common oils like olive oil or coconut oil that  will keep your hair extra shinny and soft. Apply the oil directly to the roots or, from the middle part of the hair and down, as a hair mask. Leave it for about 30 minutes before shampooing your hair.