Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil (Rosemary Oil)
rose-muh-RY-nus oh-fiss-ih-NAH-lis
INCI: Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil
What Is Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil (Rosemary Oil)?
Rosemary Oil is an aromatic essential oil steam-distilled from the leaves of the rosemary herb. It has gained enormous popularity for hair growth after a 2015 clinical study showed it was as effective as minoxidil (2%) for androgenetic alopecia over 6 months. It also has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties that benefit scalp health.
Source: Rosemary plant (Rosmarinus officinalis) leaves
Origin: Natural
Also known as: Rosemary Oil, Rosemary Essential Oil, Rosemary Extract
What Does Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil (Rosemary Oil) Do to Your Hair?
Rosemary Oil stimulates blood circulation in the scalp, which may improve nutrient delivery to hair follicles and promote hair growth. Its ursolic acid content may help inhibit DHT (dihydrotestosterone), a hormone linked to pattern hair loss. It also provides antimicrobial action against dandruff-causing organisms and has antioxidant properties that protect hair and scalp cells.
Best For
Thinning hair, hair loss concerns, dandruff-prone scalp, oily scalp, all hair types for scalp health
Not Recommended For
Very sensitive scalp (if used undiluted), pregnant women (in large amounts), epilepsy sufferers
Concentration Matters
0.5-3%
Hair Type Compatibility
Method Compatibility
Safety & Regulation
Must be diluted before use — pure essential oil can cause skin irritation and chemical burns. Safe at 1-3% concentration for most adults. Pregnant women should consult a doctor before use as rosemary may stimulate uterine contractions. May interact with blood pressure medications. Not recommended for epilepsy patients.
FDA Status: Generally Recognized As Safe
FDA does not specifically regulate essential oils in cosmetics. Rosemary oil is GRAS for food flavoring. No specific cosmetic restrictions.
EWG Score: 3/10
HairAide Verdict
Rosemary Oil is one of the most exciting natural ingredients for hair growth, backed by actual clinical research. HairAide recommends it as a first-line natural approach for anyone concerned about thinning hair. Use it diluted in a carrier oil for scalp massage 2-3 times per week, or choose products that contain it at effective concentrations.
Products That Contain Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil (Rosemary Oil)
Scalp treatments, hair growth serums, shampoos, scalp oils, leave-in treatments
Alternatives to Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil (Rosemary Oil)
If you want to avoid Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil (Rosemary Oil), look for products with these ingredients instead:
Tea Tree Oil, Peppermint Oil, Cedarwood Oil, Lavender Oil
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil (Rosemary Oil) has a safety rating of 7/10 and is generally considered safe for use in hair products. Must be diluted before use — pure essential oil can cause skin irritation and chemical burns. Safe at 1-3% concentration for most adults. Pregnant women should consult a doctor before use as rosemary may stimulate uterine contractions. May interact with blood pressure medications. Not recommended for epilepsy patients.
Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil (Rosemary Oil) is CG-method approved and is generally considered safe for curly hair.
Yes, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil (Rosemary Oil) is approved for the Curly Girl method.
Some alternatives to Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil (Rosemary Oil) include: Tea Tree Oil, Peppermint Oil, Cedarwood Oil, Lavender Oil
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