Essential oils are highly concentrated extracts from plants with medicinal values. These aromatic plant oils are distilled from leaves, flowers, grasses, stems and roots. Each plant is used for its particular value in healing and soothing. Essential oils have been in use since the Roman era. Four essential oils are commonly used in scalp massage for hair regrowth.
Lavender Oil
Lavender oil has many uses and one is treating alopecia areata, or hair loss, according to the University of Maryland. Combined with other essential oils, it makes a natural hair re-growth scalp treatment. Massaging it into your head stimulates the scalp along with the energizing properties of essential oils.
In individuals with skin allergies or extremely sensitive skin, lavender oil may cause skin irritation. It may be poisonous if taken orally.
Rosemary Oil
Rosemary oil was one of four essential oils tested for treating hair loss by the Department of Dermatology at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary in Foresterhill, Scotland. A study reported in the November 1998 issue of the "Archives of Dermatology" followed 86 patients with alopecia areata. They were treated with a combination of rosemary, lavender, thyme and cedarwood and showed significant hair regrowth. The study concluded that these oils are an effective treatment for hair loss.
Rosemary oil is an antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. Large doses of rosemary can cause serious side effects including coma, vomiting, spasms and fluid in the lungs. Higher doses of rosemary can cause miscarriage and rosemary oil can be toxic if ingested, according to the University of Maryland. People with high blood pressure, Crohn's disease or ulcers should not take rosemary.
Cedarwood Oil
Cedarwood is one of the four essential oils found to regrow hair, according to University of Maryland. It comes from the juniperus virginiana of the cupressaceae family. Native to North America, cedarwood can grow up to 100 feet high.
Cedarwood essential oil use dates back to the 11th century. It is used in soaps, shampoos and as an insect repellent. Cedarwood is used in dandruff shampoos because of its ability to regulate sebum. In high concentrations, it can cause skin irritation.
Thyme
Thyme is another essential oil used for hair growth. It is a common herb used in cooking. Thyme essential oil increases circulation, which helps stimulate hair growth. Thyme oil is potent and should be mixed with an inert carrier oil such as jojoba or grapeseed oil before being applied to the scalp. Its antiseptic properties keep the scalp free of bacteria that can cause infection and slow hair growth. The University of Maryland recommends thyme for cellulitis, swelling of the skin caused by bacterial infection.
Thyme raises blood pressure and should not be used by people with hypertension. People using blood thinners should not take thyme. Oil of thyme is toxic and should not be taken internally.
References
- National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy: Top 10 Essential Oils
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Lavender
- University of Maryland: Lavender
- National Institutes of Health: Randomized Trial of Aromatherapy. Successful Treatment for Alopecia Areata
- National Institutes of Health: Antibacterial Activity of Essential Oils From Palmarosa, Evening Primrose, Lavender and Tuberrose
Member Comments