Rosemary oil on the scalp for 6 months gave hair gains similar to 2% minoxidil, with less itching
Panahi 2015, Skinmed · Source
Rosemary
Rosmarinus officinalis hydrosol · certified organic
A fresh, green Mediterranean herb with a long history in skin and scalp care, rich in natural antioxidants. Its best human research is on the scalp.
100people in a scalp trial comparing rosemary oil with minoxidil
EU-recognizedfor traditional skin and bath use
Antioxidantcarnosic and rosmarinic acids
Why we love it
Rosemary adds a fresh, green note to the Toner and brings natural antioxidants, carnosic acid and rosmarinic acid, that plants make to protect themselves.
What does the research show?
Scalp and hair
In a randomized trial of 100 men with hereditary hair thinning, rosemary oil gave results similar to 2% minoxidil over six months, with less scalp itching. In a separate trial of 86 people with patchy hair loss, a blend of rosemary, lavender, thyme and cedarwood oils in jojoba helped 44% of people, compared with 15% using the carrier oils alone.
Antioxidant (lab)
Rosemary's carnosic acid and rosmarinic acid are well-studied antioxidants in lab work, and researchers have begun comparing rosemary hydrosol with the oil.
Studies
Human study tested in people Lab study a starting point, not proof
Blend of rosemary, lavender, thyme and cedarwood in jojoba: 44% improved vs 15% with carrier oils
Hay 1998, Arch Dermatol · Source
Compared rosemary hydrosol with rosemary oil for antioxidant and calming activity
Nguyen 2025, Mendeley Data · Source
Rosemary oil tested against Trichomonas vaginalis
J Mazandaran Univ Med Sci 2017 · Source
How has it been used traditionally?
The European Medicines Agency recognizes rosemary oil as a traditional herbal medicine, applied to skin or added to a bath, to ease minor muscle and joint aches and support circulation.
Is rosemary safe on my skin?
Allergy to rosemary is uncommon, but people allergic to thyme, sage or other mint-family herbs may react, so patch test first if that's you. For external use only; keep away from eyes.
Last reviewed: November 2026.
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Reviewed by the Momotaro Apotheca medical team, including OB-GYNs and naturopathic doctors. Educational information, not medical advice. All ingredient research