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Herbal Oils to Grow Hair on Bald Head

Aromatherapy, the therapeutic use of essential oils from plants, is often thought of as folk medicine. However, a medical study published in the 1998 Archives of Dermatology revealed the surprising conclusion that some aromatherapy is based very firmly in science. According to the study, nightly scalp massages with the following essential oils improved hair growth on 44 percent of patients. It's not magic, but it's scientific enough to try.

  1. Rosemary

    • Rosemary, a Mediterranean herb with furry, pine-like leaves and pastel flowers, is hugely popular in natural hair products. It's been used in everything from pre-shampoo treatments to post-conditioning rinses. The steam-distilled essential oil is mild enough to use directly on the scalp (unless you're allergic---always spot-test first). It stimulates hair follicles, soothes dry scalps, and is thought to delay baldness and graying.

      Rosemary oil was one of four essential oils used in the 1998 study. To replicate the hair-growth mixture, start with a base of mild carrier oils: 20 ml of grape-seed oil and 3 ml of jojoba oil. Mix in three drops of rosemary oil.

    Lavender

    • The lavender plant is also a Mediterranean native and has gray-green leaves and light-purple flowers. The leaves and flowers are easily recognizable by their sweet, soothing perfume, which encourages relaxation and sleep. Although the herb may be best known for its calming properties, it was one of the oils shown to improve hair growth in the 1998 study.

      Add three drops of lavender essential oil to the mixture containing rosemary, jojoba, and grape-seed oils. Make sure to store all your essential oils in a cool, dark place when not in use.

    Thyme

    • Flavorful thyme is a widespread culinary herb used in many recipes for soups and meats, especially lamb. It's also an aromatherapy staple, touted for its antiseptic and beneficial respiratory properties.

      Just like the first two herbs, thyme essential oil is beneficial for scalp health and hair regrowth. Because the oil is very powerful, you only need two drops in your scalp mixture. Don't rub thyme oil directly on your skin without testing a patch first; it may cause irritation if used in strong concentrations.

    Cedarwood

    • Cedarwood essential oil comes, not surprisingly, from cedar trees. The oil is steam-distilled from sawdust and chips of wood. It is useful for relieving itchy skin, and its astringent properties make it a good cure for oily skin and acne. Like thyme, it works wonders on the respiratory system and helps clear up bronchitis and other breathing problems.

      Add two drops of cedarwood essential oil to your other oils. Massage the whole fragrant mixture into your scalp for at least two minutes, using a firm circular motion. Be careful not to damage any existing hairs. If your scalp is sensitive, wrap your head in a warm towel and wash out the oils after 20 minutes. If not, leave them on overnight. Perform this routine every night for at least three months. Aromatherapy isn't instant gratification, but it's both safer and cheaper than Rogaine.

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