21 Best Natural Hair Growth Ingredients (Backed by Science)

Let’s start with the good news—your hair is growing. If it feels like it’s stuck at one length or shedding more than usual (and it’s not medical), the issue probably isn’t growth—it’s breakage. That’s where natural hair growth ingredients come in. They help you keep the hair you’re already growing by creating the right conditions for healthy growth.

These natural helpers—herbs, oils, and nutrients—can boost scalp circulation, feed your hair follicles, and protect your strands. Whether you’re just starting your journey or looking to switch things up, this guide walks you through the best ingredients for hair growth and thickness—backed by science, not just TikTok trends.

What Are Natural Hair Growth Ingredients?

When I say natural hair growth ingredients, I’m talking about plant-based, simple ingredients that nourish the scalp, strengthen your strands, and support healthier, longer hair. Think rosemary, hibiscus, castor & jojoba oil - ingredients you can pronounce and feel comfortable using.

So, what is the best natural ingredient for hair growth? Studies point to rosemary oil as a top contender. In fact, research shows it works just as well as minoxidil (a popular hair loss treatment), but without the side effects. That’s major when you're trying to avoid harsh chemicals.

Dried, fresh, or powdered —rosemary works in any form to support natural hair growth.

🌱 How Natural Ingredients Support Hair Growth

You’ve probably seen lots of “miracle” DIY tips online, but natural ingredients work best when used consistently and with purpose.

Here's why...

5 ways natural hair ingredients help:

They stimulate the scalp. Rosemary and peppermint oil improve blood flow, helping you regrow thinning spots.
They build stronger strands. Amla and fenugreek provide proteins and vitamins to fight breakage.
They lock in moisture. Oils like olive and avocado soak into your strands to keep them soft and flexible.
They calm the scalp. Aloe and tea tree reduce flakes and irritation, creating space for healthy follicles to thrive.
They help with length retention. Less breakage = longer hair over time. That's real growth you can actually see.

If you’re trying to regrow hair naturally in 3 weeks, starting with these key functions will set you up for success.

Here's a preview of the 21 natural hair growth ingredients I'll be breaking down. Each ingredient included on the list is chosen for its ability to support growth, strength, or retention:

Rosemary • Fenugreek • Amla • Bhringraj • Brahmi • Hibiscus • Aloe Vera
Black Mustard Seeds • Clove • Jojoba Oil • Castor Oil • Olive Oil
Avocado Oil • Coconut Oil • Carrot Oil • Argan Oil • Peppermint EO
Tea Tree EO • Lavender EO • Lime EO • Grapefruit EO

21 Best Natural Hair Growth Ingredients (with Mini Profiles)

You don’t need to use everything from this list. Just find 2–3 that match your current goals—moisture, strength, or stimulation. Together, they can create a custom routine that supports growth and protects your strands.

You’ll find ingredients that answer big questions like:

Which ingredient is most effective for hair growth?
What is the best natural ingredient for hair growth?
and even How can I make my hair grow faster naturally?

Let’s get into it 🙂

Herbs for Hair Growth

If you're looking for 5 natural herbs for hair growth that deliver real results, this section has that plus more. These aren’t random kitchen remedies—these herbs have been used for centuries and now have science to back them up.

1. Rosemary

Summary:

Rosemary is the go-to for hair growth and strength. It works best when applied directly to the scalp and pairs beautifully with Olive Oil or Castor Oil for a stimulating growth blend

Benefits: Growth stimulation, helps wake up dormant follicles, reduces shedding
Scientific Backing: Natural DHT blocker. Backed by clinical research, a 2015 study found rosemary oil to be as effective as 2% minoxidil in promoting hair growth, with fewer side effects
How to Use Rosemary: Infuse in oil, brew as a scalp spray, or add to masks
Best for: Thinning edges, patchy spots, itchy scalp, slow growth

2. Fenugreek

Summary:

Fenugreek supports both growth and moisture. It can be applied to the scalp and strands and pairs well with Hibiscus and Aloe Vera for a hydrating, strengthening treatment

Benefits: Moisturizing & Volumizing. Promotes volume, Reduces Shedding, Locks in hydration
Scientific Backing: Mucilage content and plant proteins. High in protein and nicotinic acid, both linked to stronger hair and reduced hair fall
How To Use Fenugreek: Soak overnight and blend into masks or add to oil infusions
Best for: Weak strands, shedding, breakage, and dull hair

3. Amla (Indian Gooseberry)

Summary:

Amla is great for boosting shine, strength, and overall growth. It can be used on both the scalp and hair and pairs best with Brahmi, Bhringraj, or Coconut Oil

Benefits: Strengthening & Conditioning. Stimulates Growth, Adds Shine, Prevents Breakage.
Scientific Backing: Vitamin C & Antioxidants protect strands. One study showed Amla to inhibit 5-alpha reductase (an enzyme linked to hair loss)
How To Use Amla: Mix powder into masks or oil; use in gloss treatments
Best for: Overall hair strengthening, early-stage hair loss, scalp buildup

4. Bhringraj

Summary:

Bhringraj is a powerful growth and strengthening herb, best applied to the scalp. It combines well with Amla, Brahmi, and Coconut Oil for a full Ayurvedic blend

Benefits: Strengthening & Growth Stimulating. Strengthens the roots, Encourages growth, Reduces shedding
Scientific Backing: Ayurvedic herb known for prolonging the hair growth cycle
How To Use Bhringraj: Steep in oil for massage or add to DIY hair masks
Best for: Shedding, thinning, and hair that’s stuck at the same length

5. Brahmi

Summary:

Brahmi supports scalp health and strengthens fragile strands. Apply it to the scalp and pair it with Bhringraj, Amla, or infused oils for best results

Benefits: Strengthening & Nourishing. Reduces breakage, Soothes Scalp, Supports follicles
Scientific Backing: Supports blood flow and provides antioxidant protection. Contains alkaloids that stimulate hair proteins and support scalp circulation
How To Use Brahmi: Combine with Amla or Fenugreek in masks or hair teas
Best for: Fine, weak strands and brittle ends

6. Hibiscus

Summary:

Hibiscus promotes growth, elasticity, and shine. It can be used on the scalp and hair, and pairs well with Fenugreek, Amla, or your favorite oils.

Benefits: Strengthening & Elasticity. Promotes growth, Improves elasticity, Adds shine
Scientific Backing: Amino acids, Vitamin support, Collagen & Keratin
How To Use Hibiscus: Use as a tea rinse or hair mask; blend powder with aloe or oils
Best for: Length retention, frizz control, and dry curls

7. Aloe Vera

Summary:

Aloe Vera deeply hydrates and calms the scalp. It can be used on both the strands and scalp, and works well with Hibiscus, Fenugreek, and Olive Oil

Benefits: Moisturizing & Soothing. Hydrates hair, Soothes itchy or Inflamed scalp
Scientific Backing: Contains Vitamins A, C, E, and natural enzymes
How To Use Aloe Vera: Use as a tea rinse, powder mask, or mix into conditioners
Best for: soften strands, calm irritation, and support healthy growth, locks in moisture, and balances oil without buildup

8. Black Mustard Seeds

Summary:

Black Mustard Seeds are stimulating and great for boosting growth and strength. They’re best applied to the scalp and pair well with Fenugreek and Castor Oil

Benefits: Growth Stimulating & Strengthening. Boosts circulation, Encourages dormant hair follicles
Scientific Backing: High in Selenium and Omega-3 fatty acids
How To Use Black Mustard Seeds: Infuse seeds into oils or grind into a paste for targeted use
Best for: Slow-growing hair, cold scalp, and stimulating dormant follicles

9. Clove

Summary:

Clove supports both hair growth and scalp health. Apply it to the scalp and pair with Olive Oil or Castor Oil for increased stimulation and shine

Benefits: Growth stimulating & Strengthening. Encourages hair growth, Strengthens hair follicles
Scientific Backing: Rich in Eugenol (a natural stimulant). Warming effect increases circulation and opens follicles
How To Use Clove: Boil into teas, infuse into oils, or grind and blend into pastes
Best for: Fine hair, dull strands, itchy scalp

Carrier Oils for Hair Growth (Strengthen & Seal)

Carrier oils like jojoba and castor are the base of many DIY treatments and can even be mixed into your natural hair growth ingredients based shampoo. They're beginner-friendly and great for sealing moisture and delivering nutrients deep into the scalp.

10. Jojoba Oil

Summary:

Jojoba Oil helps balance the scalp and moisturize without buildup. It’s safe for both scalp and strands, and pairs well with Argan oil, aloe vera, or tea tree essential oil

Benefits: Moisturizing & Balancing. Balances scalp oils, Softens strands.
Scientific Backing: Closely mimics the scalp’s natural sebum, making it lightweight yet effective for hydration
How To Use Jojoba Oil: Apply directly to the scalp; use as a base for oil blends or hot oil treatments
Best for: Oily or irritated scalps, low-porosity hair, buildup-prone routines

11. Castor Oil

Summary:

Castor Oil is ideal for growth, strength, and retention. It’s best focused on the scalp but can be used along the strands as well. Try pairing it with Rosemary, Peppermint, or Coconut Oil

Benefits: Strengthening & Sealing. Thickens hair over time, Boosts growth, Seals ends
Scientific Backing: High in Ricinoleic acid, Anti-inflammatory
How To Use Castor Oil: Apply to edges and scalp 2–3x/week; blend with lighter oils like Jojoba or Grapeseed
Best for: Thinning edges, breakage, slow growth

12. Olive Oil

Summary:

Olive Oil is a deeply moisturizing oil that aids with length retention. Use it on the strands and pair it with herbs, Aloe Vera, or Honey for added softness

Benefits: Moisturizing & Penetrating Oil. Softens, Seals in Moisture, Protects ends
Scientific Backing: Rich in Oleic Acid and Squalene, both known to improve elasticity and scalp health. Oleic Acid is also penetrates hair shaft
How To Use Olive Oil: Pre-poo, hot oil, conditioner boost
Best for: Brittle or dry strands, weekly hydration

13. Avocado Oil

Summary:

Avocado Oil provides both moisture and strength, especially for high porosity hair. Apply it to the scalp and strands, and pair with Olive Oil, Hibiscus, or Fenugreek

Benefits: Moisturizing & Penetrating. Nourishes dry hair, Adds elasticity.
Scientific Backing: Loaded with vitamins A, D, E, and B6, plus biotin and amino acid
How To Use Avocado Oil: Use as a scalp oil or apply to strands as a leave-in or hot oil treatment
Best for: High-porosity, damaged, or protein-sensitive hair

14. Coconut Oil

Summary:

Coconut Oil offers protection and strengthens the hair shaft. It’s best used on strands and pairs well with Castor Oil, Amla, and Hibiscus

Benefits: Penetrating & Strengthening. Reduces protein loss, Strengthens strands from within
Scientific Backing: High in Lauric Acid, which has a low molecular weight that lets coconut oil penetrate the hair instead of sitting on top
How To Use Coconut Oil: Use in pre-poos or as a deep treatment ingredient; avoid if it makes your hair stiff
Best for: Medium to high-porosity hair that tolerates protein well

15. Carrot Oil

Summary:

Carrot Oil promotes shine, moisture, and strength. It’s ideal for strands and pairs easily with Olive or Castor Oil for an antioxidant-rich blend

Benefits: Strengthening & Conditioning. Nourishes strands, Adds shine, Supports Elasticity
Scientific Backing: Packed with beta-carotene, Vitamin A & E, antioxidants, and fatty acids that support scalp renewal
How To Use Carrot Oil: Use in hot oil blends or as a scalp massage oil 1–2x per week
Best for: Weak strands, dull hair, and scalp revitalization

16. Argan Oil

Summary:

Argan Oil adds shine, softness, and protection. It’s best applied to strands and works well alongside Jojoba oil, Aloe Vera, or Glycerin.

Benefits: Moisturizing & Conditioning. Smooths frizz, Adds shine, Protects from Heat
Scientific Backing: Rich in Antioxidants. Rich in vitamin E and fatty acids that support the outer cuticle layer
How To Use Argan Oil: Apply to damp hair as a sealant or mix into styling creams
Best for: Protecting ends, Frizz, and heat styling

Essential Oils that Stimulate the Scalp

Wondering how to make your hair grow faster naturally? Essential oils are powerful, concentrated helpers. Just a few drops (always diluted!) can improve scalp health, increase circulation, and support steady growth.

17. Peppermint Essential Oil

Summary:

Peppermint EO stimulates the scalp and encourages growth. Use it diluted on the scalp with Castor Oil, Jojoba Oil, or Tea Tree essential oil.

Benefits: Growth stimulating & Cooling. Improves circulation, Soothes itchiness
Scientific Backing: Contains menthol, increases blood flow
How To Use Peppermint Oil: Mix 3–5 drops into a carrier oil like Jojoba; massage into scalp 2–3x/week
Best for: Itchy scalp, thinning spots, and slow-growing areas

18. Tea Tree Essential Oil

Summary:

Tea Tree EO supports scalp health and can help unclog follicles. Dilute before applying to the scalp, and pair it with Jojoba Oil, Aloe Vera, or Peppermint essential oil

Benefits: Cleansing & Balancing. Reduces dandruff & Unclogs follicles
Scientific Backing: Anti-fungal, Antibacterial properties
How To Use Tea Tree Oil: Mix 2–3 drops into carrier oil or shampoo; avoid direct skin contact undiluted
Best for: Dandruff, itchy scalp, buildup, and follicle blockages

19. Lavender Essential Oil

Summary:

Lavender EO helps with scalp health and promotes growth. It’s best diluted in Castor Oil, Olive Oil, or Argan Oil for calming, restorative blends

Benefits: Calming & Stimulating. Calms scalp, May reduce shedding
Scientific Backing: Anti-inflammatory, Promotes circulation. Has calming, antimicrobial properties and may promote faster follicle cell generation
How To Use Lavender Oil: Blend with jojoba or avocado oil; massage into scalp at night
Best for: Sensitive scalp, stress-related shedding, tension relief

20. Lime Essential Oil

Summary:

Lime EO gives the scalp a refreshing boost and adds shine. Use it diluted with Jojoba or Olive Oil, or pair it with Grapefruit essential oil diluted

Benefits: Clarifying & Stimulating. Adds shine, Cleanses buildup, Energizes hair follicles
Scientific Backing: High in vitamin C, natural astringents. and antioxidants that support scalp detox and collagen production
How To Use Lime Oil: Add a few drops to scalp oil or rinse; avoid sun exposure after use
Best for: Oily scalp, buildup, and product detox

21. Grapefruit Essential Oil

Summary:

Grapefruit EO supports shine and scalp clarity. Apply it diluted to the scalp, paired with Lime essential oil, Jojoba oil, or Aloe era

Benefits: Clarifying & Energizing. Refreshes scalp, Boosts mood, & Reduces oiliness
Scientific Backing: Contains Vitamin C, Antioxidant-rich. Contains limonene, known for improving circulation
How To Use Grapefruit Oil: Mix into carrier oils; use in scalp massages or DIY sprays
Best for: Lifeless hair, slow growth, and scalp refresh

Choosing Hair Growth Ingredients for Your Hair Needs

This section helps you pick your own mix from the full hair growth ingredients list. Consider your porosity, strand type, and goals. Whether you’re struggling with breakage or just want to improve retention, there’s a perfect blend for you.

Easy Natural Hair Growth Ingredient Pairings

As for me, I have coily hair with fine strands, medium density, and high porosity. My focus is on moisture, strength, and length retention. If that sounds like you, these are solid pairings to try.

They’ll help you avoid product buildup and simplify your growth journey.

Recap: Natural Hair Growth Made Simple

To wrap it up:

You don’t need a 12-step routine. You need a smart one
Choose natural hair growth ingredients that actually meet your hair’s needs
Stick to them for 4–6 weeks before deciding what works
Herbs like rosemary and amla, and oils like castor and avocado, are all powerful parts of the best ingredients for hair growth and thickness
Whether you use a full DIY method or just enhance your existing products, the key is consistency

👉🏾 Start Here: