Researchers find that this well-known herb can speed up wound healing

You may have already purchased or used rosemary as a skin care product. This plant, which is also recommended for hair growth, has different properties. Its users attribute cleansing, toning, protective and healing properties to it.

The researchers wanted to test this last effect: Can the molecules in rosemary help heal wounds and reduce the appearance of scars? A team from the University of Pennsylvania investigated these questions after coming across tips on social media. Dermatologists have published their work in the journal
JCI Insights on October 23, 2025 and attribute many healing properties to rosemary and have even identified the original ingredient.

Powerful antioxidants for healing

« We hypothesized that there was probably some truth behind all the hype because rosemary contains a lot of antioxidants “says Jiayi Pang, one of the study’s authors, in an interview for MedicalXpress. «
But we knew that to truly realize its potential, we had to prove its healing properties and find out exactly how it facilitates healing. »

The biggest challenge in skin care after an injury is limiting the size, appearance, and roughness of scars. “ Many skin lesions leave scars that can cause long-term cosmetic and even functional problems in some people. “, explains Dr. Thomas Leung, Professor of Dermatology. ” Our results suggest that rosemary extract, and in particular carnosic acid, an antioxidant, may alter the healing process and promote the regeneration of healthy skin. » The hair base, sebaceous glands and cartilage are restored more easily.

“Rosemary is characterized by its effectiveness and safety”

Researchers have also discovered another property of rosemary. Its components stimulate a nerve sensor called TRPA1, which enables scar-free healing. “
We also identified other herbs such as thyme, mustard oil and oregano that can activate TRPA1. But rosemary is distinguished by its strength and safety: unlike others, it does not cause inflammation. », Details Rapp Reyes, another contributing author.

However, the researchers warn against jumping to conclusions: their tests were carried out on mice and do not provide sufficient evidence on humans.

Rosemary for hair

You can incorporate rosemary into your routine in the form of a drop of essential oil to your cream or with hydrosol or oil macerate. For acne, rosemary can help heal lesions and reduce the risk of scarring. This plant is also recommended for stimulating hair growth. A clinical trial A study conducted in 2015 on 100 participants showed the positive effects of rosemary on thinning hair. In this case it is used in the form of macerate or hydrosol.

As always, remember that natural does not mean safe. To avoid interactions with other products or medications, seek medical advice.