Photo: Jupiterimages/Pixland/Getty Images
Searching for a way to get better conditioned and longer hair? Get 'look-at-me' locks with a versatile essential oil blend that can stimulate hair growth. Unlike mineral- or animal-based oils, certain botanical oils are capable of regulating sebum levels (the amount of natural oil secretions) in your scalp while conditioning your hair. Their ability to target specific hair and scalp concerns leads to a longer, more lustrous makeover for your crowning glory. Use these blended oils for scalp massage, hot oil conditioning treatments, or for protecting the ends of your hair from breakage. How you work this nourishing oil recipe into your at-home "diva routine" is limited only by your imagination. Enjoy the growth!
1.
Open the glass bottle and measure 5 oz. of at least one of the base (or "carrier") oils that you will be using according to your hair's needs. Although you could use 5 oz. of a blend of these oils, your results will be better if you choose the one that accommodates your hair best. Select jojoba if your scalp and/or hair tend to be oily, especially if your hair shows signs of being overworked or damaged. Choose grapeseed oil for oily or normal hair/scalp without damaged hair. Use coconut oil for dry hair and scalp whether or not your hair is damaged. With the aid of a funnel, add this oil to the bottle.
2.
Add 1/8 tsp. each of the rosemary and basil essential oils. Both oils have been scientifically tested to increase the rate of scalp hair growth. (See Resources for a link to the summary of this laboratory study.)
3.
Pour in 1/8 tsp. each of the arnica, lavender and peppermint oils. Arnica prevents and reverses hair loss due to stress, lavender relieves scalp problems that hinder healthy growth and peppermint stimulates the follicles within the scalp to begin a new growing cycle.
4.
Place 1/8 tsp. each of the cedar, bay and thyme essential oils to the mixture. Each of these oils has a rejuvenating effect on the hair and scalp while promoting strong, healthy hair. Close the bottle and shake it for 30 seconds to combine the ingredients.
5.
Massage a small amount of this oil into your scalp one to three days a week before bedtime for at least five minutes to stimulate renewed growth of your hair and to improve circulation to your scalp. Shampoo it out in the morning and style your hair as usual. You should begin to see a marked difference in the rate of hair growth within four to eight weeks of this routine.
1.Glass storage container with cap (dark colored--up to 6 oz. capacity)
3.5 oz. of either Jojoba, grapeseed or coconut essential oil
5.1/8 tsp. rosemary essential oil
7.1/8 tsp. arnica essential oil
9.1/8 tsp. peppermint essential oil
11.1/8 tsp. bay essential oil
2.Measuring cups and spoons
4.Funnel
6.1/8 tsp. basil essential oil
8.1/8 tsp. lavender essential oil
10.1/8 tsp. cedar essential oil
12.1/8 tsp. thyme essential oil
After massaging your scalp with the oil, wrap your hair in a hot, damp towel to help the oils work faster. Remove the towel when it cools.
Avoid applying any undiluted essential oils to your scalp or skin directly. In aromatherapy jargon, this is known as applying "neat" oils. Some oils are highly irritating in their pure state if undiluted, and can cause severe allergic reactions in certain people who are sensitive to them. Exercise caution and always carefully blend essential oils with a neutral carrier oil.
