Rosemary Oil Vs. Rosemary Essential Oil: What's the Difference?
Rosemary essential oil and rosemary oil are two terms that are usually confused by people and are used interchangeably but there is a huge difference between the two. The major differences between the two are the process of getting the out of rosemary leaves, the usage, and the texture.
It is essential to have knowledge about the rosemary essence and extract in order to incorporate it appropriately into the hair care routine. Rosemary has numerous hair care benefits and using it in the right way can change your hair game.
Rosemary Essential Oil:
Rosemary essential oil is derived by a process known as distillation. As a result of this steam distillation process, the essence of rosemary is obtained. A steam is made to pass through the rosemary, that steam then carries the essential oil into a condensation container. Rosemary essential oil is obtained in a water-plus-oil texture after condensation. Eventually, the resulting oil is highly concentrated and rich in the plant's active compounds. They must be diluted before being used on hair as it is highly volatile and concentrated and can cause itchiness ad dryness in hair if used directly. Due to its high concentration, it is used scarcely. Rosemary essential oil is known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Rosemary Oil:
Rosemary oil is a type of oil that is extracted from the rosemary plant using carrier oil such as olive oil or coconut oil. Rosemary oil is diluted in a carrier oil and is not as strong as rosemary essential oil which carries the rosemary essence. It is the rosemary extract. The oil is extracted by soaking the rosemary leaves in the carrier oil for several weeks. The resulting oil is then strained to remove any plant residue. The oil has a strong aroma and is often used in aromatherapy and massage therapy. It is also used in hair care as it is a great hair growth-boosting agent.
Comparison: Rosemary Oil vs Rosemary Essential Oil
|
Aspect |
Rosemary Essential Oil |
Rosemary Oil |
|
Source |
Steam distillation of rosemary leaves |
Infused by soaking rosemary leaves in a carrier oil |
|
Extraction Method |
Steam distillation |
Oil infusion (with olive or coconut oil) |
|
Concentration |
Highly concentrated, contains the essence of rosemary |
Mild, diluted with carrier oil |
|
Texture |
Watery/light (volatile) |
Oily/greasy |
|
Usage |
Must be diluted before applying (e.g., with carrier oil or shampoo) |
Can be used directly on the scalp or hair |
|
Frequency |
1–2 times per week |
Can be used more frequently |
|
Properties |
Antibacterial, antifungal |
Pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory |
|
Hair Benefit Focus |
Stimulates scalp, improves circulation |
Nourishes and supports hair growth |
|
Aroma |
Strong, sharp herbal scent |
Mild, herbal aroma (depends on carrier oil) |
|
Application Areas |
Often used in scalp treatments, serums, and diluted DIY recipes |
Used in hair oils, massages, and aromatherapy |
|
Precaution |
May irritate if not diluted |
Generally safe for direct application |
Conclusion
In conclusion, rosemary and essential oils are two different types of oils derived from the rosemary plant. So while both come from the same plant, rosemary, one is described as a pure essential oil while the other one is an infused carrier oil with rosemary, it is important to identify them properly before using.
