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Some beauty ingredients are worth keeping on hand, and rosemary oil is quickly earning its place on that list.
Known for its potential to support hair growth and scalp health, rosemary oil is also a favourite for nourishing skin and adding a subtle herbal note to DIY body care. And it’s incredibly EASY to make at home!
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If you’ve ever been tempted to try it but weren’t sure where to start, you’ll be happy to know that homemade rosemary oil requires only a few simple ingredients and a little patience.
No fancy equipment, no complicated steps—just a slow infusion that captures the essence of fresh rosemary.
Here’s exactly how to make your own homemade rosemary oil, plus a few tips for using it once it’s ready.
What Is Rosemary?
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is a fragrant, evergreen herb native to the Mediterranean region.
While it’s long been a favourite in cooking for its earthy, aromatic flavour, rosemary has an equally rich history in beauty and wellness rituals.
The plant is packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, and when used topically, its essential oils are believed to support circulation, soothe the scalp, and promote healthy hair and skin.
From the kitchen to your beauty cabinet, rosemary is a small-but-mighty ingredient with an impressive range of uses.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Clean glass jar with a lid
- Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
- Dark glass bottle for storage (helps preserve the oil)
Choosing Your Ingredients
Fresh rosemary: Use about 1-2 sprigs, depending on the size of your jar. Ideally, use fresh rosemary from your garden or the produce section. Dried rosemary can also work, but fresh will provide a brighter, more vibrant scent and a slightly richer infusion.
Carrier oil: The choice of oil depends on how you plan to use the finished product. Olive oil is a great all-purpose option; jojoba and sweet almond oils are lighter, making them excellent for hair and skin applications.
How To Make Homemade Rosemary Oil
1. Prepare the rosemary
Wash the rosemary thoroughly and pat it completely dry. Any moisture left behind can lead to spoilage, so don’t skip this step. If you’re using fresh rosemary, allow it to air dry for several hours or overnight.
2. Add rosemary to your jar
Place the rosemary sprigs in a clean glass jar. You can lightly bruise the leaves to help release their natural oils.
3. Pour in the carrier oil
Pour your chosen carrier oil over the rosemary until it’s fully submerged. Leave a little space at the top of the jar to allow for expansion.
4. Infuse
Seal the jar with a lid and place it in a warm, sunny spot—like a windowsill—for about 1–2 weeks. Shake the jar gently every day to help the infusion process.
5. Strain and store
After the infusion period, strain the oil through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean bowl or measuring cup. Discard the rosemary.
Transfer the infused oil into a dark glass bottle and store it in a cool, dark place. Properly stored, your rosemary oil should last for several months.
How To Use Homemade Rosemary Oil
- For hair: Massage a few drops into your scalp to promote circulation and support hair growth. You can also add it to your shampoo or conditioner for an easy boost.
- For skin: Apply as a body oil or mix a few drops into your favourite body lotion. Rosemary oil’s natural antioxidants make it a great addition to your skin care routine.
- For aromatherapy: Use in DIY candles, bath oils, or as part of a relaxing evening ritual. The clean, herbal scent of rosemary is known for its grounding and invigorating qualities.
A Few Notes
- Always patch test before using rosemary oil on your skin or scalp to check for sensitivity.
- If you’re pregnant, nursing, or managing certain health conditions, check with your doctor before adding essential oils to your routine.
Making your own rosemary oil is a simple, satisfying ritual—and one that brings a little more nature into your self-care routine. Whether you’re using it to support hair health, nourish your skin, or simply enjoy its fresh, herbal scent, this is one DIY project that’s well worth the effort.
