10 Best Herbal Essential Oils For Grey Hair

Herbal essential oils have gained popularity for their potential to promote hair health and possibly reduce the appearance of grey hair.

Oils such as rosemary, lavender, and sage are often used in natural remedies due to their stimulating and nourishing properties. These oils may help improve blood circulation to the scalp, which can support hair growth and enhance the natural pigment of hair. While there is limited scientific evidence on their effectiveness for reversing grey hair, many users report positive results when using these oils consistently.

Incorporating herbal essential oils into a hair care routine can be a safe and aromatic alternative for those seeking natural solutions to hair concerns.

1. Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus)

Vitex agnus-castus, commonly known as chaste tree, is often associated with its potential benefits for hormonal balance, particularly in supporting women's health.

While it is not directly linked to the prevention or reversal of grey hair, some studies suggest that it may help regulate hormones like prolactin and thyroid hormones, which can influence hair pigmentation. Essential oils derived from Vitex agnus-castus are sometimes used in aromatherapy and topical applications to promote overall hair health and vitality. These oils may enhance circulation to the scalp, potentially supporting the growth of thicker, healthier hair.

However, it is important to note that while Vitex agnus-castus may contribute to general hair wellness, there is limited scientific evidence directly connecting it to the reversal of grey hair.

2. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, is a popular herb whose essential oil is widely used in natural remedies for various health and beauty purposes.

The essential oil derived from rosemary leaves contains potent compounds such as camphor, cineole, and pinene, which are known for their stimulating and antioxidant properties. When used in hair care, rosemary essential oil is believed to promote blood circulation in the scalp, which may support hair growth and enhance the health of existing hair. It is often used in aromatherapy and hair treatments to address issues like thinning hair and premature greying.

While some people claim that rosemary oil can help prevent or reverse grey hair, more scientific research is needed to fully validate these effects.

3. Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica)

Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, is a plant that has been traditionally used for its various health and cosmetic benefits.

While it is not typically used directly for grey hair, some herbal essential oils derived from related plants may be used in hair care routines to support hair health and potentially delay the graying process. These oils are believed to nourish the scalp and promote hair growth by improving circulation and providing essential nutrients. However, it is important to note that there is limited scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of urtica dioica essential oils specifically for grey hair.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating these oils into your hair care regimen.

4. English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as English lavender, is widely used in herbal essential oils for its calming and therapeutic properties.

When distilled from the flowers of this plant, lavender essential oil is prized for its ability to promote relaxation and reduce stress, which can indirectly support hair health. While lavender oil is not a direct solution for grey hair, it may enhance scalp health and encourage a balanced environment for hair growth. Some people use lavender essential oil in scalp treatments to potentially stimulate hair follicles and improve overall hair vitality.

However, it is important to note that grey hair is a natural part of the aging process and may not be reversed through the use of essential oils alone.

5. Field horsetail (Equisetum arvense)

Equisetum arvense, also known as horsetail, is a plant traditionally used in herbal medicine for its high concentration of silica, which is believed to support hair health.

Its essential oils, extracted through steam distillation, are valued for their ability to strengthen hair follicles and promote hair growth, making them a popular choice for those seeking natural remedies for grey hair. These oils are often blended with other aromatic ingredients to create hair treatments that may enhance scalp vitality and improve the overall appearance of hair. While scientific evidence on its effectiveness for grey hair is limited, many users report positive results when using horsetail-based products consistently.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating equisetum arvense essential oils into one's hair care routine.

6. Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

Curcuma longa, commonly known as turmeric, is a medicinal plant that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its numerous health benefits.

The essential oils derived from Curcuma longa contain bioactive compounds such as curcuminoids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. These essential oils have been explored for their potential role in promoting hair health, including the prevention of grey hair by supporting melanin production. Some studies suggest that the active compounds in turmeric essential oils may help in maintaining the natural pigmentation of hair by protecting hair follicles from oxidative stress.

While more research is needed, incorporating turmeric essential oils into hair care routines may offer a natural alternative for those seeking to delay the onset of grey hair.

7. Thistle (Silybum marianum)

Silybum marianum, also known as milk thistle, is a herbal plant traditionally used for its liver-protecting properties, but its essential oils have also been explored for their potential benefits in hair care.

While the primary use of silybum marianum is in herbal medicine for detoxification and skin health, its essential oils may contribute to hair strengthening and scalp vitality. Some studies suggest that the antioxidants and bioactive compounds in these oils could support hair growth and reduce greying by improving circulation and nutrient delivery to the scalp. However, it is important to note that there is limited scientific research specifically on the use of silybum marianum essential oils for grey hair, and results may vary among individuals.

As with any essential oil, it should be used with caution and diluted properly to avoid skin irritation.

8. Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis)

Aloe barbadensis, commonly known as aloe vera, is a plant that has been widely used for its soothing and healing properties.

While aloe vera is often recognized for its gel, it also contains essential oils that can be beneficial for various skin and hair conditions. These essential oils may help nourish and strengthen hair, potentially supporting the health of grey hair by improving scalp condition and promoting moisture retention. Some formulations combine aloe barbadensis essential oils with other natural ingredients to enhance their effectiveness for hair care.

However, it is important to use these oils properly, as they can be potent and may require dilution before application to the skin or hair.

9. Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)

Cinnamomum zeylanicum, commonly known as Ceylon cinnamon, produces a rich and aromatic essential oil that has been traditionally used for its warming and grounding properties.

This herbal essential oil is valued for its potential to stimulate hair growth and enhance the health of the scalp, making it a popular choice in natural hair care routines. While it is not a direct solution for grey hair, some users report that regular use may help slow the graying process by improving circulation and nourishing the hair follicles. The oil can be diluted with a carrier oil and applied topically to the scalp for best results.

Its unique flavor and therapeutic benefits make it a versatile addition to holistic hair care regimens.

10. Sandalwood (Santalum album)

Santalum album, commonly known as sandalwood, is a revered herbal essential oil that has been traditionally used for its soothing and nourishing properties.

When applied to the scalp, it is believed to stimulate hair growth and improve scalp health, making it a popular choice for those experiencing premature greying. The oil's rich composition of sesquiterpenes and aromatic compounds may help in rejuvenating hair follicles and promoting a healthier scalp environment. Many natural remedies suggest using sandalwood oil in combination with other essential oils like rose or lavender for enhanced benefits.

While scientific evidence is limited, its long-standing use in Ayurvedic and traditional medicine suggests that it may offer some support in maintaining hair color and vitality.