Essential Oils For Natural Hair

Extracted from the stems, leaves or roots of a plant, many essential oils contain naturally occurring antibacterial, antifungal and healing properties. As essential oils are highly concentrated, a few drops are usually blended into a carrier oil, such as olive, coconut or jojoba. When applied to the hair and scalp, essential oils such as rosemary, tea tree, lavender and clary sage oils support healthy natural hair growth and scalp health.

Rosemary Oil

Rosemary oil is a nourishing tonic for those who are bald or have thinning hair, according to Organic Facts.Net, because the oil has a stimulating effect on hair follicles. Graying hair and premature hair loss may both be improved with the regular application of rosemary essential oil. A popular ingredient in hair products, rosemary oil can be used in a scalp scrub to treat dandruff. Apply a few drops daily of rosemary essential oil in a carrier oil or by itself to promote longer and stronger hair. The invigorating aroma of rosemary, meanwhile, has uplifting properties that may help improve concentration.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil's antiseptic properties are useful in cleansing and healing the scalp. The oil -- with its natural antifungal and antibiotic properties -- is found in many hair products, and helps to treat dandruff and lice infestations. According to Cynthia Olsen of "Making Scents Magazine," adding 10 drops of tea tree oil to an 8-ounce bottle of shampoo moisturizes natural hair, keeps the scalp free of bacteria and unclogs blocked hair follicles.

Lavender Oil

Useful for depression and headaches, lavender oil offers additional benefits when applied to the scalp and hair. A sunburned scalp can be soothed with lavender oil, and it has strengthening properties when applied as a hair tonic. According to the Natural Home Remedies website, 10 drops of lavender oil added to a hair rinse will help combat head lice. Dabbing a few drops of lavender oil onto your comb or brush helps to repair damaged hair.

Sage Oil

According to Phyllis Balch of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," sage in the form of an oil or a tea works as an effective natural hair serum. Balch says that sage oil is specifically beneficial for adding a healthy shine to natural hair. Using sage oil may help cover gray hair as it has a tendency to darken the shade of your natural hair.