Top Natural Oils for Hair Growth

Hair plays a pivotal role in personal identity across cultures. Whether you’re growing out your hair after a drastic cut, coping with postpartum shedding or simply want stronger locks, many people look to natural oils. Scientific evidence shows that some plant‑based oils can strengthen hair, reduce breakage and improve scalp health, which indirectly promotes growth. This guide combines peer‑reviewed research with practical advice to help you choose and use natural oils safely. 

Note: Always conduct a patch test and consult a dermatologist if you have underlying scalp conditions or are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Natural oils nourishing and strengthening healthy brown hair.

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Understanding Natural Oils and Hair Growth

Plant‑derived oils fall into two broad categories: carrier oils and essential oils. Carrier oils such as coconut, olive, argan, jojoba and almond are extracted from nuts or seeds and can be applied directly to hair. They are rich in fatty acids that penetrate the hair shaft, reduce water loss and prevent breakage. Essential oils such as rosemary, peppermint and lavender are concentrated plant extracts and must be diluted in a carrier oil to prevent skin irritationhealthline.com. While most oils don’t dramatically speed up hair growth, research shows that improving scalp health and reducing breakage allows hair to reach its full length potential.

How Natural Oils Support Hair Health

• Moisturising and sealing: Oils like coconut and argan contain medium‑chain fatty acids (lauric, oleic and linoleic acids) that penetrate the hair cortex, reducing protein loss and helping hair retain moistureverywellhealth.com. Moisturised hair is less prone to breakage and appears longer over time.

• Antioxidant protection: Many oils are rich in vitamin E and polyphenols. These antioxidants fight oxidative stress on the scalp and hair, which can contribute to premature shedding. For example, argan oil’s polyphenols and vitamin E penetrate damaged follicles to repair the scalp and reduce oxidative stresshealth.com.

• Anti‑inflammatory effects: Essential oils like rosemary and peppermint contain compounds that may reduce inflammation in the scalp and improve blood circulation, fostering an environment where hair can thrive.

• Antimicrobial properties: Tea tree, lemongrass and rosemary oils have natural antifungal or antibacterial effects that can help control dandruff and seborrheic dermatitishealthline.com.

Top Natural Oils for Hair Growth

The following oils stand out due to scientific evidence or long‑standing traditional use. Each sub‑section describes the research, benefits, step‑by‑step usage and precautions.

Rosemary Oil

Rosemary oil has gained popularity after a 2015 randomized trial compared 3.7 percent rosemary oil lotion with 2 percent minoxidil (a prescription hair‑loss treatment). After six months, participants using rosemary oil had significant hair growth comparable to the minoxidil group and experienced fewer instances of itchy scalp. The carnosic acid in rosemary has anti‑inflammatory and antioxidant properties and may rejuvenate peripheral nerves, improving blood flow to hair follicleshealth.clevelandclinic.org.

How to use:

1. Dilute: Mix 3–5 drops of rosemary essential oil with a tablespoon of carrier oil (jojoba or almond). Essential oils must be dilutedhealthline.com.
2. Patch test: Apply a small amount to your forearm to check for sensitivity.
3. Apply to scalp: Part your hair and massage the oil into your scalp. Leave it on for at least 10–15 minutes; some people leave it overnight. Avoid contact with eyes.
4. Rinse and repeat: Wash with a gentle shampoo. Use the treatment up to three times per week. Results may take several monthshealth.clevelandclinic.org.

Precautions: Do not use rosemary oil during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If your hair is very fine, the oil may weigh it down or appear greasyhealth.clevelandclinic.org.

Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil contains menthol, which provides a cooling sensation and may increase blood flow to the scalp. A 2014 study on mice found that peppermint oil increased follicle count and depth and lengthened the anagen (growth) phasehealthline.com. Although human research is limited, the findings suggest potential benefits when properly diluted.

How to use:

1. Combine 2–3 drops of peppermint essential oil with a tablespoon of carrier oil (coconut or jojoba).
2. Perform a patch test.
3. Massage the mixture into the scalp for 5–10 minutes, then leave for at least 15 minutes before washing.
4. Use once or twice weekly. If you experience burning or irritation, discontinue usehealthline.com.

Precautions: Peppermint oil can cause skin irritation, rashes or allergic reactions; always dilute well and avoid contact with eyeshealthline.com.

Lavender Oil

Lavender oil contains anti‑inflammatory, antioxidant and antifungal compoundshealthline.com. Some studies have used lavender in combination with other oils to treat alopecia areata, but it’s difficult to isolate its effecthealthline.com.

How to use: Add 3–4 drops to a tablespoon of carrier oil and massage into the scalp. Leave it on for 20–30 minutes before washing. The calming scent can also help reduce stress.

Precautions: Lavender is generally safe when diluted but may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Cedarwood Oil

Cedarwood essential oil comes from the bark of cedar trees and has been used traditionally for scalp issues. A small 1998 study combined cedarwood, thyme, rosemary and lavender oils in carrier oils and found that 44 percent of participants with alopecia areata experienced some hair regrowth, whereas only 15 percent in the control group saw improvementshealthline.com. While the study used a blend, cedarwood’s anti‑inflammatory properties may contribute.

How to use: Mix 2–3 drops of cedarwood essential oil with carrier oil and apply to the scalp once or twice weekly.

Precautions: Limited human studies mean results are uncertain; discontinue if you experience irritation.

Lemongrass Oil

Lemongrass oil has potent antifungal and anti‑inflammatory properties. A 2024 review suggested that a 10 percent lemongrass tonic may reduce dandruff due to its antifungal effectshealthline.com. Improved scalp health could support hair growth indirectly.

How to use: Dilute 3–5 drops in carrier oil and massage into scalp for 10 minutes. Use 1–2 times weekly.

Precautions: Strong scent and potential skin sensitivity; avoid use if pregnant.

Sage Oil (Common Sage)

Common sage (Salvia officinalis) oil contains compounds that may stimulate cell proliferation. A 2020 study on cultured cells and mice found that sage extract induced hair follicle‑related cell growthhealthline.com. Human research is lacking, so results are anecdotal.

Usage: Mix 2 drops of sage oil with carrier oil, apply to scalp and rinse after 15–20 minutes.

Precautions: Undiluted sage oil may cause irritation; avoid if you have high blood pressure or are pregnant.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is known for its antiseptic and antifungal properties. In a small study, a topical mixture of tea tree oil, diclofenac and minoxidil improved hair growth more than minoxidil alonehealthline.com. However, it’s unclear whether tea tree oil independently stimulates growth.

How to use: Add 3 drops to a tablespoon of carrier oil and massage into scalp. Use once weekly to control dandruff and scalp inflammation.

Precautions: Tea tree oil can cause rashes and skin irritation; always dilute and do a patch testhealthline.com.

Ylang‑Ylang Oil

Ylang‑ylang essential oil comes from the flowers of the Cananga tree. It exhibits anti‑inflammatory, antimicrobial and antioxidant propertieshealthline.com. A 2021 tissue‑culture study noted that ylang‑ylang induced tissue regeneration, and a 2024 study suggested benefits for scalp psoriasis and dandruffhealthline.com. Direct evidence for hair growth is limited.

How to use: Mix 2–3 drops of ylang‑ylang oil with carrier oil. Massage into scalp and leave on for 20 minutes before rinsing. The floral scent provides aromatherapy benefits.

Precautions: May cause headaches or nausea if used in high concentrations; avoid during pregnancy.

Jojoba Oil

Jojoba oil is technically a liquid wax derived from the nuts of the jojoba plant. It closely resembles human sebum and contains long‑chain fatty acids. According to dermatologist Dr. Alok Vij, these long‑chain fatty acids help hold moisture in hair, making strands appear thicker and less brittle. The oil also contains copper and zinc, which are important for hair synthesis. Because jojoba oil doesn’t clog pores, it can penetrate follicles and deliver anti‑inflammatory moleculeshealth.clevelandclinic.org.

How to use:

1. Direct application: Apply a few drops to your fingertips and work through the roots to the ends. Keep oil off the scalp to avoid bacterial growth.
2. Leave‑in conditioner: Use as a leave‑in conditioner to reduce split ends and add shinehealth.clevelandclinic.org.
3. Carrier oil: Combine with essential oils like rosemary or peppermint.

Precautions: Jojoba oil is generally safe with few allergies. Those with seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis should still patch‑testhealth.clevelandclinic.org.

Almond Oil

Sweet almond oil is an emollient that fills gaps in the hair shaft, making hair feel smoother. It lubricates hair strands and reduces friction during styling, which diminishes breakage. A study on Brazilian nut oils containing oleic and linoleic acids (also found in almond oil) showed improved hair resilience when treated with small amounts of oil. While there’s no direct evidence that almond oil triggers new hair growth, strengthening hair reduces split ends and allows hair to reach longer lengths. Almond oil is rich in vitamin E, a natural antioxidanthealthline.com.

How to use:

1. Warm a teaspoon of almond oil in your hands and apply to damp hair, focusing on the ends.
2. For a deep conditioning mask, mix two parts coconut oil with one part almond oil and a mashed avocado; apply to clean, dry hair and leave for 30–40 minuteshealthline.com.
3. Use a small amount daily to reduce frizz and add shine.

Precautions: People with severe nut allergies should avoid almond oil. Do not apply pure oil before heat styling, as it can heat up and burn your scalp or hairhealthline.com.

Argan Oil

Argan oil, extracted from the kernels of the Moroccan argan tree, is prized for its fatty acid composition. Although no large‑scale studies show that argan oil speeds hair growth, it supports growth by moisturizing and protecting hairhealth.com. Argan oil’s polyphenols and vitamin E penetrate damaged follicles to repair scalp skinhealth.com. It forms a protective barrier that shields hair from oxidative dye damage and reduces protein damage during washinghealth.com.

How to use:

1. Shampoo or conditioner: Choose products containing argan oil.
2. Leave‑in treatment: Rub a few drops into damp hair after washing.
3. Hair mask: Apply generously, wrap hair in a towel and leave for 30–60 minutes.

Precautions: Rarely, argan oil can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions; always patch‑testhealth.com.

Olive Oil

Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is rich in monounsaturated fats, antioxidants and antimicrobial agents. Healthline notes that olive oil may contribute to healthy hair growth but research is inconclusive. Its proteins and antioxidants can strengthen hair follicles and increase the lifespan of each hair, creating the appearance of faster growthhealthline.com.

How to use:

1. Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil and apply to scalp and hair.
2. Massage for 5 minutes and cover with a shower cap for 30 minutes.
3. Shampoo thoroughly; repeat once weekly.

Precautions: Evidence of olive oil promoting growth is limitedhealthline.com. Use small amounts to avoid greasy hair.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which has a high affinity for hair proteins and can penetrate the hair shaft to reduce protein loss. A 2022 study showed that coconut‑based oils reduce damage from routine washingverywellhealth.com. A 2024 study found that triglycerides in coconut oil penetrate the hair cortex, reducing water absorption and everyday hair damage. Although evidence for direct hair growth is limited, coconut oil helps maintain scalp health and manage dandruffverywellhealth.com.

How to use:

1. Use as a pre‑wash treatment: apply to hair, leave for 30 minutes and shampoo.
2. Apply small amounts to ends as a leave‑in conditioner.
3. Mix with essential oils for added benefits.

Precautions: Overuse can make hair greasy. Those with coconut allergies should avoid it.

Castor Oil

Castor oil is commonly touted online as a hair growth miracle, but experts warn there is no evidence that applying pure castor oil promotes hair growth. In rare cases, it can clog pores or cause scalp acne and acute hair felting, which tangles hair into a hard mass that must be cut off. Doctors do not recommend castor oil for any health issue other than its use as a laxativehealth.clevelandclinic.org.

Recommendation: Consider rosemary oil or other evidence‑supported oils insteadhealth.clevelandclinic.org.

Pumpkin Seed Oil

Pumpkin seed oil (PSO) gained attention after a 2014 randomized, double‑blind, placebo‑controlled trial in 76 men with mild to moderate androgenetic alopecia. Participants took 400 mg of PSO orally for 24 weeks. The PSO group had a 40 percent increase in hair count, while the placebo group showed a 10 percent increase. Self‑rated improvement and satisfaction scores were significantly higher in the PSO group. Researchers attribute PSO’s effect to phytosterols that inhibit 5α‑reductase (an enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone, a hormone linked to hair loss)pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.

How to use:

• Supplements: Capsules containing 100–500 mg of pumpkin seed oil are widely available. Follow the dosage on the label (commonly 400 mg per day, as in the study). Consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.

• Topical oil: Pumpkin seed oil can also be applied to the scalp. Mix with a carrier oil and massage into the scalp; leave for 20–30 minutes before washing.

Precautions: While PSO showed promising results, more research is needed to determine long‑term safety and effectiveness. Check for allergies and consult your doctor if you’re on blood‑thinning medications.

How to Choose and Use Natural Oils for Hair Growth

1. Identify your hair type and concerns. Fine hair may become greasy with heavy oils like coconut or olive; lightweight oils like jojoba or argan work better for fine hair. Coarse or curly hair often benefits from heavier oils.
2. Check for allergies. Conduct a patch test by applying a small amount of diluted oil on the inner arm. Wait 24 hours for any reaction.
3. Choose quality products. Look for cold‑pressed, organic oils without additives. Purchase from reputable brands or health stores.
4. Dilute essential oils. Essential oils are highly concentrated and must be mixed with carrier oils to avoid irritationhealthline.com.
5. Massage gently. Massaging the scalp increases blood flow and helps oils penetrate. Use fingertips, not nails.
6. Be patient. Natural oils improve hair health gradually. Most studies show results after 3–6 monthshealth.clevelandclinic.org.
7. Combine with healthy habits. Balanced nutrition, adequate protein intake and stress management contribute to hair growth. 

Potential Risks and Precautions

While natural oils are generally safe, misuse can lead to problems:

• Allergic reactions: Nut oils like almond and coconut can trigger severe reactions in those with allergies. Always perform a patch test.

• Irritation from essential oils: Undiluted essential oils may cause dermatitis, rashes or burnshealthline.com.

• Greasy buildup: Overusing heavy oils can clog pores and lead to scalp acne or hair felting, particularly with castor oil.

• Pregnancy concerns: Certain oils (rosemary, sage, peppermint) may not be safe during pregnancy or breastfeedinghealth.clevelandclinic.org.

• Interaction with medications: If you’re taking oral supplements (e.g., pumpkin seed oil), check with a doctor, especially if you’re on blood thinners or hormone therapy.

Conclusion

Natural oils offer a cost‑effective, accessible way to support hair health. Research supports the use of rosemary oil as comparable to minoxidil for androgenic alopecia, and pumpkin seed oil supplements show promising hair count increasespmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Coconut, argan, jojoba and almond oils improve moisture retention and reduce breakage, indirectly promoting growth. Essential oils like peppermint, lavender and cedarwood may enhance circulation and scalp health, but more human studies are neededhealthline.com. Castor oil lacks evidence and may do more harm than good. Ultimately, the best oil depends on your hair type, sensitivity and goals. Use these oils as part of a comprehensive hair‑care routine that includes proper nutrition, gentle styling and stress management.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which natural oil is best for hair growth? Research suggests rosemary oil may be the most effective for androgenic alopecia, showing comparable results to minoxidilhealth.clevelandclinic.org. Pumpkin seed oil supplements also produced significant hair count increases in a clinical trialpmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. For overall hair health, combine these with conditioning oils like coconut or argan.

2. Can I mix different oils together? Yes. Mixing carrier oils with essential oils can provide combined benefits. For example, adding a few drops of peppermint or rosemary oil to coconut or jojoba oil can improve scalp stimulation and moisture.

3. How long does it take to see results? Natural remedies require patience. Studies with rosemary oil showed significant results after six months, while pumpkin seed oil supplements took 24 weekspmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Consistency is key.

4. Are there any side effects? Side effects are generally mild but can include skin irritation, allergic reactions, greasy scalp or, rarely, hair felting with castor oilhealth.clevelandclinic.org. Always dilute essential oils and patch‑test new oils.

5. Do these oils work for everyone? Results vary based on genetics, underlying conditions and hair type. Oils improve scalp and hair health but may not reverse genetic hair loss in everyone. If you have severe hair loss or medical conditions, consult a dermatologist.

For more hair‑care insights, visit our hair‑care blog where experts share evidence‑based tips on maintaining healthy, beautiful hair.