Oregano Essential Oil for Hair Growth: Myth or Reality

When you think about using essential oils for hair care, you probably think of using lavender essential oil or rosemary essential oil or maybe even tea tree essential oil. But, what if we tell you about how the good old oregano oil can also be used for improving hair health? Shocking, right? Well, not so much if you really think about it.

Historically coveted for its medical properties and today for its skin rejuvenating properties, it is about time that we recognise the powerful scalp and hair healing properties of oregano.

Whether you’re suffering from scalp infections or frizzy hair, this natural oil can help.

Truly versatile in nature, it can be used in the form of oregano essential oil  or oil of oregano (commonly known as oregano leaf extract).

Before we move forward , I would like to make it clear that oregano essential oil and oil of oregano are two very different things. Though they’re both sourced from the oregano plant ,they have different extraction processes, chemical compositions, concentration and thus are used differently.

Understanding Oregano Essential Oil

Oregano essential oil is obtained by air drying the leaves and shoots of the Origanum Vulgare plant then extracting the concentrated essence . This essential oil can be used to help with hair problems such as dandruff, scalp problems , and more . Because it is highly concentrated, it should never be applied directly on the hair  or consumed orally. Instead, it should be diluted with a carrier oil before application.

In contrast, oil of oregano is produced through methods involving  carbon dioxide or alcohol. It’s commonly available as a dietary supplement, often in the form of pills or capsules.

What remains the same is that, both the oils are rich in compounds like carvacrol, thymol, and rosmarinic acid, though in differing quantities.

What does oil do to your Hair

How does oregano oil help with hair growth? Oregano essential oil contains compounds like carvacrol and thymol, which give it its antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. This makes it a three-fold agent that reduces the early graying of hair, prevents bacterial infections and soothes irritated scalp.

A powerhouse of vitamins like vitamin C and Vitamin B6, oregano oil stimulates collagen production in our body. This enhances hair growth which in turn helps sport stronger and more luscious hair.

Moreover, it also keeps congestion and cold away which can sometimes lead to premature greying. But does oregano oil really work for colds? Read on to discover.

Benefits of Oregano Essential Oil for Hair

When it comes to taking care of our hair, one thing you should keep in mind is that everything is connected. Internal problems like stress, hormonal imbalance or poor diet could be some of the underlying reasons for hair loss . Or the hair concerns could be caused by more external factors ;like your scalp isn’t healthy enough to support the growth of new hair. It is in these cases that oregano essential oil is a total treasure. Here are some of the oregano oil benefits for hair -

1. Scalp Health and Dandruff Control

Maintaining good scalp health is necessary to facilitate healthy hair growth.

If you’re suffering from incessant itching, flaking or dandruff, oregano essential oil can act as a gentle exfoliator for the inflamed scalp . 

2. Improving Blood Circulation

Proper blood circulation to the hair follicles ensures the nourishment of the baby hair growing from the root. Many people don’t realise that poor blood circulation can damage the hair follicle over time. When a hair follicle is damaged, there will be no hair regrowth. 

By treating scalp conditions and cleaning the scalp of product buildup, oregano boosts blood and oxygen flow and creates a perfect environment for the growth of new hair.

3. Strengthening Hair Strands

Oregano essential oil provides intense nourishment and hydration to the hair stands, preventing dry, brittle hair.

Locking in moisture, it makes the hair soft, smooth and shiny. 

4. Combating Hair Loss

The antioxidant properties of the oregano oil protects the scalp from damage causing free radicals. Free radicals are often the culprits behind hair thinning and hair loss.

How to Use Oregano Essential Oil for Hair Growth

A simple way to incorporate oregano oil for hair can be through a scalp massage treatment.

Dilute a few drops of oregano essential oil with 15 ml of castor oil. You can now apply this blend directly to your scalp . Massage gently for 7-10 minutes so that the mixture gets absorbed faster. This will also promote better blood circulation. Leave it on for at least 45 minutes before rinsing it off using a mild shampoo.

Keep a lookout for supplements containing oil of oregano for hair growth.

Looking to incorporate it in your DIY products? Learn How to Dilute Oregano Essential Oil for Safe Use.

Are There Any Risks or Side Effects?

The journey to strong, healthy hair is not easy. It's all about trial and error with a teensy bit of professional help. And oregano essential oil is not without its faults. Here are some risks associated with oregano oil and the safe ways you could minimize them.

For one, oregano essential oil is highly potent and causes burns and skin irritation on undiluted use. So, always remember to dilute the oil with a carrier oil before application.

Secondly, if you think oregano oil will not suit your hair, do a patch test beforehand.

Thirdly, regular usage of diluted oregano essential oil can cause dryness in hair and scalp. To prevent this, regulate the dosage of essential oil and use it twice a week.

Lastly, oregano essential oil is known for its strong, herbal scent . Quite a few people have found it to be too strong for their liking.

In case, if you also find the smell of oregano essential oil too overwhelming, switch it up with peppermint or cedarwood essential oil.

Moreover, if you have pets around, check with your vet if it is safe to use Oregano Oil for Dogs  or other pets.

Myth or Reality?

By now, you may have figured out that oregano oil and hair growth go hand in hand.

Its rich antibacterial, antioxidant and antifungal properties have made it an instant hit in the households of many. A somewhat niche ingredient, it can help promote a healthier, fuller mane.

But don't just take my word for it . Test out oregano oil for hair growth by delving into the world of wholesale essential oils with Aromachology Oils.

Conclusion

Oregano oil offers a unique set of benefits for hair. It can become a valuable addition to your hair care ritual for its hair revitalizing and strengthening properties.  Don't let hair loss hold you back any longer, harness  the power of nature’s cure with oregano essential oil.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can oregano oil promote hair growth?

Yes, oregano oil can promote hair growth. It has powerful properties that thoroughly cleanse and nourish the scalp to create a healthy environment for fuller locks.

What essential oil grows hair the fastest?

Rosemary essential oil is the internet's favourite hair growth oil for a reason. It is said to have properties rivaling Minoxidil, a drug used to treat baldness in men and women.

What is the most powerful herb for hair growth?

Oregano, rosemary, and fenugreek are some of the most powerful herbs for hair growth.

Is oregano oil better than rosemary oil?

Which oil is better suited for you depends upon the use . If you're looking for an essential oil that hastens the hair regrowth, rosemary oil is the one to go for . But , if your aim is fighting scalp infections and stubborn acne , choose diluted oregano oil.

What is the downside of oregano oil?

Since oregano oil is very concentrated and potent, it should be used in moderation and only after dilution. Do not use it regularly as it can cause hair dryness. Remember, like most natural treatments oregano essential oil also needs time to work out its magic.