Hair growth takes time, but there are ways to help nature move a little faster. If you’re into clean beauty, simple ingredients, and routines that fit your lifestyle, this guide on natural ways to promote hair growth is exactly that.
No gimmicks, no miracle promises. Just 12 natural methods, some rooted in tradition, some backed by science, that support hair growth.
Pick what speaks to you and make it part of your weekly flow. Your hair will respond.
1. Rosemary Oil: The Oil That Outperforms Minoxidil
Why it works: Studies show rosemary oil works just as well as minoxidil (yup, the stuff in Rogaine), but without the side effects. Rosemary oil can stimulate hair follicles and increase circulation.
How to use this natural way to promote hair growth:
- Mix a few drops of rosemary essential oil with a carrier oil (like jojoba or coconut).
- Massage into your scalp for 5 minutes.
- Leave it on for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
- Rinse and wash hair as usual.
Pro Tip: Use 2–3 times a week consistently for best results.
2. Onion Juice: Yes, It Smells; But It Works
Why it works: Don’t click away yet. Onion juice is so underrated. It’s packed with sulfur (great for hair follicles) and boosts blood flow to your scalp. It boosts collagen production and supports hair regrowth.
How to do it:
- Blend one onion, and strain out the juice.
- Massage it into your scalp and let it sit for 15–30 minutes.
- Wash out thoroughly with a gentle shampoo.
Warning: The smell is strong. Use lemon water or mix with a few drops of lavender or peppermint oil to mask it. You should also do a patch test first to avoid irritation.
3. Fenugreek Seeds Magic: Nature’s Collagen Booster
Why it works: This spice isn’t just for cooking. Fenugreek contains nicotinic acid and protein, which are essential for strong, long hair. Fenugreek also repairs follicles, prevents shedding, and fights dandruff.
DIY Mask:
- Soak 2 tbsp of fenugreek seeds overnight.
- Blend into a paste and apply to the scalp.
- Leave for 30–45 minutes, then wash off.
Pro Tip: Use weekly to reduce shedding and stronger, shinier strands.
4. Scalp Massages: Low effort, high reward
Why it works: If you only do one thing on this list, let it be this. Massaging your scalp increases circulation and wakes up those sleepy follicles. It also helps distribute natural oils encouraging stronger, faster hair growth.
How to do it:
- Use fingertips or a scalp massage brush.
- Massage gently in circular motions for 5–10 minutes daily.
- Boost benefits by adding a few drops of rosemary, peppermint, or tea tree oil.
Tip: Do it before bed to relax your body and your scalp.
Bonus: It also relieves stress.
5. Rice Water Rinse: Super Shine + Strength
Why it works: Everyone’s talking about it, but it’s not just hype. This ancient East Asian natural hair growth remedy is full of amino acids, B vitamins, and nutrients that strengthen and smooth your strands.
How to use it:
- Rinse ½ cup of uncooked rice and soak in water for 24 hours.
- Strain and store in a spray bottle.
- Use as a rinse or leave-in spray after shampooing 2–3 times weekly.
Heads up: Fermented rice water smells kinda funky, but works even better.
6. Aloe Vera: Isn’t Just for Sunburns
Why it works: Aloe vera soothes an irritated scalp, promotes circulation, and balances oil production, which are all essential for natural hair growth.
How to use:
- Cut a fresh aloe leaf and scoop out the gel.
- Massage directly onto the scalp and let sit for 30–45 mins.
- Rinse and wash as usual.
Real Talk: Aloe vera scalp treatment works wonders if you suffer from dandruff or buildup.
7. Beat Stress Because Stress = Hair Loss (Yep, It’s a Thing)
Why it works: Chronic stress pushes hair into the shedding phase. If your body is constantly in “fight or flight” mode, your natural hair growth cycle can shut down. Managing stress helps keep follicles active. It is time to take your peace seriously.
Simple stress soothers:
- Move your body (a walk counts).
- Journal, breathe, pray; whatever calms you.
- Get off your phone an hour before bed.
- Saying no to things that drain you.
- Exercise regularly to reduce cortisol.
Real talk: Peace of mind = peace for your hairline. Self-care isn’t optional if you want thriving hair.
8. Silk Pillowcase Upgrade: Small Switch, Big Impact
Why it works: Reduces friction and moisture loss, preventing breakage. Cotton soaks up your hair’s moisture and creates friction while you sleep. That equals more breakage. Switch to silk or satin, it makes such a difference.
What to do:
- Invest in a 100% silk or satin pillowcase.
- Wash weekly to keep it clean and scalp-friendly.
Style Tip: A silk bonnet or scarf works just as well if you’re not ready to switch bedding.
9. Good Sleep = Good Hair
Why it works: Most of your hair repair happens while you sleep. So, if you’re skimping on rest, your hair’s feeling it.
Here’s how to help:
- Shoot for 7–9 hours of sleep.
- Stick to a consistent sleep schedule.
- Keep your room cool and tech-free.
- Wind down with chamomile tea or magnesium.
- Sleep in a braid to cut down on breakage.
Tip: Combine this with your silk pillowcase and you’re golden.
10. DIY Herbal Hair Tea: Smells Like a Spa
Why it works: Herbs like nettle, horsetail, and hibiscus are rich in silica, iron, and anti-inflammatory compounds that support stronger strands and better scalp health.
How to brew:
- Steep 1 tbsp dried nettle + 1 tbsp horsetail in 2 cups boiling water for 20 mins.
- Let it cool, then pour it over your hair after washing.
- Rinse or leave in, it’s super gentle.
Bonus move: Sip a cup of this tea while you’re at it for internal benefits, too.
11. Nourish from the Inside Out
Healthy hair growth starts at the cellular level. Nutrients like vitamins A, C, D, E, zinc, iron, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids are all crucial for strong strands and speedy growth.
Eat more of these natural hair growth heroes:
- Avocados – Packed with vitamin E and healthy fats that repair and protect scalp tissue
- Berries – Loaded with vitamin C, they help your body produce collagen (hello, stronger hair!)
- Pumpkin seeds – A rich source of zinc, which keeps hair follicles healthy
- Lentils – High in iron and protein, two key players in preventing hair loss
- Eggs – Great source of biotin and protein, both essential for growth
- Fatty fish – Salmon and mackerel offer omega-3s that reduce inflammation and boost shine
Pro Tip: Stay hydrated; your hair is made up of 25% water. Sipping consistently throughout the day supports every strand.
12. Weekly DIY Hair Masks
Deep conditioning doesn’t just smooth your strands. It helps reverse damage, replenish moisture, and create the perfect environment for healthy growth.
Go-to Avocado Mask:
- 1 ripe avocado (rich in fatty acids + vitamins A, D, E)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (adds softness + shine)
- 1 tbsp honey (a natural humectant that draws in moisture)
Optional: A few drops of rosemary or peppermint oil for added scalp stimulation
How to use:
- Blend all ingredients into a creamy paste.
- Apply generously to damp, clean hair from roots to ends.
- Cover with a shower cap and wrap in a warm towel.
- Leave on for 30–40 minutes, then rinse and shampoo lightly.
Style Tip: Make this your Sunday self-care ritual. Your curls (and curls-in-the-making) will be amazing.
No Magic: Just a Routine That Works When You Do
There’s no perfect formula for natural hair growth, but a few small habits can go a long way. The key is consistency, not perfection. Some days you’ll do the full mask, oil, and rinse routine. Other days it’s just sleep and scalp massage. That’s fine.
Start with what feels doable, track what works, and stay patient with your progress. Your hair’s already growing, you’re just helping it do its thing a little better.
