Rosemary is the newest Instagram cure for hairfall, but does it work? An expert answers
The beauty industry has an awful lot of products that are full of chemicals and toxins, which in the longer run might harm you and your body. But lately, natural products and home remedies are trying to sneak back into our beauty routine. From rice water to turmeric, influencers are taking up home remedies from their grandmother's kitchen and using them. The latest addition to this is rosemary.
What is Rosemary?
A mint lookalike, Rosemary is an aromatic herb with its origin in the Mediterranean region but is now cultivated worldwide for its culinary, medicinal, and ornamental uses.
- It has a distinct fragrance and a slightly bitter, pungent taste.
- In cooking, rosemary is often used to add flavour to various dishes, especially meat, poultry, and roasted vegetables.
- It is also known for its potential health benefits and is used in traditional medicine for its antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.
- In the latest, it is used for hair benefits and various brands are using rosemary and selling it in the form of serums, hair oils and whatnot.
[READMORE: A 50s BP drug called Minoxidil is having its moment in hair-loss treatment and experts are not so happy]
Rosemary for hairfall? Yes
Rajesh Annamalai AL, Health, Diet & Nutrition Consultant, NLP Practitioner from New Delhi, explains that rosemary offers several potential benefits for hairfall and may contribute to its effectiveness in promoting hair growth.
Here are some ways rosemary can be beneficial:
1. Stimulates hair follicles: Rosemary has been found to stimulate blood circulation in the scalp, which can help improve the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to hair follicles. This increased blood flow can promote hair growth and reduce hair fall.
2. Anti-inflammatory properties: Hairfall can sometimes be caused by inflammation in the scalp. Rosemary has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe the scalp and reduce inflammation, creating a healthier environment for hair growth.
3. Antioxidant effects: Rosemary contains antioxidants that help neutralise harmful free radicals, which can damage hair follicles and contribute to hair fall. By protecting the hair follicles from oxidative stress, rosemary may help prevent hair fall and support healthier hair growth.
4. Anti-dandruff benefits: Rosemary has antimicrobial properties that can help combat dandruff-causing bacteria and fungi, keeping the scalp clean and reducing the risk of dandruff-related hair fall.
How to use rosemary for hairfall
If you're thinking of adding rosemary to your hair care routine, instead of using expensive hair masks, you can get rosemary from a local store or Amazon.
1. Rosemary-infused oil
One of the best ways to use rosemary is in the form of hair oil. However, do not apply the rosemary oil directly; make it at home.
How to make it? Prepare a rosemary-infused oil by combining dried rosemary leaves with carrier oil like olive oil or coconut oil. Place the mixture in a jar and let it sit for a few weeks in a cool, dark place. Strain the oil.
How to use it? You can apply it to your scalp and hair, massaging gently. Leave it on for a few hours or overnight before washing your hair.
Another easy way is to dilute rosemary oil (get this directly from the market) with a carrier oil, and then apply it to the scalp. Leave that oil overnight, and wash your hair the next day.
2. Rosemary rinse
Brew a strong rosemary tea by steeping dried rosemary leaves in hot water for a good 15-20 minutes. Let it cool and strain the liquid. After shampooing and conditioning your hair, use the rosemary tea as a final rinse. Pour it over your hair, massage it into your scalp, and leave it on without rinsing.
3. Rosemary spray
You can also prepare the same rosemary tea, and keep that in storage spray bottles if you're lazy like me, and store it in the fridge. Just spray it and use it daily (best to use before sleeping). How long can you store it? A fresh bottle can last you at least 2 weeks if you're storing it in the fridge.
3. DIY Rosemary hair mask
Create a homemade hair mask by mixing crushed fresh or dried rosemary leaves with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or almond oil. Apply the mixture to your scalp and hair, ensuring even coverage. Leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour, then wash your hair as usual.
4. Commercial rosemary products
Now, if you don't have time for any of that, just look for hair care products that contain rosemary as an ingredient. This can include shampoos, conditioners, and hair oils specifically formulated to address hair fall. Might not be as effective as the natural one, but works fine.
Now, the big catch. It doesn't always work.
However, Rajesh Annamalai also says it is not always effective.
According to him, "Hair loss can have various underlying causes, and a comprehensive approach, including medical advice, may be necessary for some cases.'
He also lists some other cons:
- Allergic reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to rosemary. It can cause skin irritation, redness, itching, or even an allergic rash. He advises to always perform a patch test before using rosemary oil or products containing rosemary to check for any adverse reactions.
- Irritation on sensitive skin: Rosemary essential oil, when used undiluted or in excessive amounts, can be irritating to sensitive skin. It's important to dilute it properly with carrier oil before applying it to the skin or scalp.
- Essential oil safety concerns: Essential oils, including rosemary oil, are highly concentrated and potent. Ingesting rosemary oil can be toxic.
- Interactions with certain medications: Rosemary may interact with certain medications, particularly blood thinners and anticoagulants, as it can have blood-thinning properties. If you are on any medication, consult with a healthcare professional before using rosemary products.
A fair warning
It's important to note that while rosemary has been traditionally used for hair care and is backed by anecdotal evidence, scientific research is still limited. Results may vary among individuals, and it's best to consult with a healthcare professional or dermatologist for personalised advice and guidance for addressing hairfall concerns.