Rosemary Oil or Onion Oil- The Better Essential Oil?

Rohit Panwar

Essential oils are all the rage these days which makes it difficult to choose one among the many available options. One such choice is between rosemary oil versus onion oil. 

Before you take a pick, let me take you through the differences and benefits of rosemary oil versus onion oil. Read till the end to find out which will work best for you.    

rosemary Oil versus onion Oil

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Before I get to answering questions like rosemary oil vs onion oil for hair loss, let me give you a comparative glimpse into the two – 

SOURCE
Rosemary Oil

Rosemary leaves

Onion Oil

Red Onions

TYPE
Rosemary Oil

Essential Oil

Onion Oil

Essential Oil

FRAGRANCE
Rosemary Oil

Pine & Citrus- like

Onion Oil

Pungent

AROMATHERAPY USE
Rosemary Oil

Yes

Onion Oil

No 

EDIBLE
Rosemary Oil

No

Onion Oil

Yes

DIRECT LY  APPLICABILE
Rosemary Oil

No 

Onion Oil

No

BEST USED WITH
Rosemary Oil

Jojoba or Coconut Oil

Onion Oil

Olive or Coconut Oil

RECOMMENDED FOR AGES
Rosemary Oil

6+

Onion Oil

3+

CALMING EFFECT
Rosemary Oil

Very Good

Onion Oil

Average

AS BATH ADDITIVES
Rosemary Oil

Yes

Onion Oil

No

PAIN RELIEF EFFECTIVENESS
Rosemary Oil

Very Good

Onion Oil

Very Good

SKIN HEALTH OUTCOME
Rosemary Oil

Very Good

Onion Oil

Very Good

HAIR HEALTH OUTCOME
Rosemary Oil

Very Good

Onion Oil

Very Good

VERSATILITY
Rosemary Oil

Good

Onion Oil

Very Good

SHELF LIFE
Rosemary Oil

4 years

Onion Oil

2 years

Let me take you through the details now – 

What is the Source of Rosemary Oil Versus Onion Oil? 

Rosemary oil is extracted from the leaves of the herb rosemary through a process called steam distillation. The herb rosemary has been used extensively in cooking native in a number of cuisines. 

Onion oil is usually obtained from the seeds of red onions. They can also be obtained from chopped and dried onions. In both cases, the resulting essential oil has similar properties. 

What Kind of Oil is Rosemary Oil Versus Onion Oil?

Rosemary oil and onion oil are both essential oils. Essential oils are basically concentrated oils which have the characteristic and odour of the parent plant.  

These oils when exposed to room temperature are very volatile i.e. they evaporate easily when compared to normal oils.  

The Better Smelling Oil – Rosemary or Onion Oil?

Let me start by saying that I absolutely love rosemary oil fragrance. It smells something in between citrus and pine. Some people also equate this smell as that of eucalyptus oil. 

Onion oil has a very strong, pungent and ofcourse onion-like smell. But don’t let this off-putting smell keep you away from the amazing benefits it confers. 

Which Oil is Best Suited for Aromatherapy – Rosemary or Onion Oil?

Rosemary oil is a really good choice for aromatherapy and also as room fresheners. Just put a few drops in your diffuser and let the freshness take over the place. However, be careful while using it around children under 6 years and pets as it can be harmful for them. 

Onion oil has many uses and benefits but it is not a good choice for aromatherapy. This, you guessed right, is because of the very strong and pungent smell.  

Which One Can be Consumed: Rosemary Or Onion Oil? 

Rosemary essential oil should not be consumed orally. Although some people do consume it orally but I would advise against it as there is not enough evidence supporting the safety of rosemary oil when taken orally. 

Onion oil is completely safe for consumption. It is either added to dishes for flavouring it. Many people also add a few drops to water as it is believed to help with digestive problems. 

Rosemary Oil Vs Onion Oil: Which One Can be Used Directly?

Essential oils should not be applied directly. Always mix them with a base or carrier oil before applying them. Since rosemary and onion oil are both essential oils, they should always be mixed with a carrier before application. 

The ratio of dilution ranges between 1-3 drops of essential oil in 1 teaspoon of carrier oil. These instructions are generally mentioned on the label.  

Best Oils to Mix With Rosemary Oil Vs Coconut Oil?

If you are new to essential oils or have allergies, do a patch test. Apply a diluted version of the oil (2-4 drops of essential oil in 1 teaspoon carrier oil) on your forearm. Cover it with a band aid and let it stay on for 48 hours. If there is any kind of allergic reaction, you should avoid it. 

Now coming to what to mix with the oils. Rosemary oil goes well with jojoba oil and coconut oil. Onion oil goes well with coconut oil and olive oil. Mix them in the required ratio before applying. 

At What Age Can you Start Using Rosemary Oil Vs Onion Oil?

Rosemary oil can be safely used on or around children over the age of 6. Onion oil is safe for children over the age of 3.

Use a very diluted version of essential oils for children and the elderly (1-2 drops of essential oil in 1 teaspoon carrier oil) as their skin is more sensitive. 

Which Has a More Calming Effect: Rosemary Oil or Onion Oil? 

Rosemary oil has been used in aromatherapy and is said to reduce stress. Inhaling rosemary oil is also associated with improving concentration and memory

Although onion oil does have a lot of benefits but is not known for its calming or relaxation. Although when massaged on hair it does help you relax. 

What Can You Use for Bath Time – Rosemary or Onion Oil?

Essential oils can be added to bathing water as it helps to relax your body. Rosemary oil (diluted) can be added to bathing water for a scented and relaxing bath. 

Onion oil does not make for a good choice as a bathing additive because of its strong smell. 

Rosemary Oil Vs Onion Oil: The Better Pain Reliever

Rosemary oil is a popular and effective remedy for pain, especially muscle and joint pains. Massage the affected area with the diluted version of rosemary oil to see its benefits. 

Onion Oil is also effective in dealing with pain. It is found effective in dealing with joint pains. 

Better for Glowing Skin: Rosemary Oil Or Onion Oil?

Rosemary Oil is a pretty good choice for the skin. It helps in hydrating the skin by taking care of the dry and irritated parts. 

Onion oil is also a pretty effective remedy for treating day to day skin problems like irritation and dryness. But remember to always apply essential oils with a carrier oil. 

Rosemary Oil Vs Onion for Hair Growth? 

Rosemary oil is beneficial for hair growth. Use of diluted rosemary oil helps in improving circulation in your head which helps hair growth. It is also said to  be effective in preventing dandruff. 

Onion oil is one of the best products for tackling hair related issues like hairfall. It helps in hair growth and is also beneficial in reducing problems like dandruff. 

Which Has More Uses –  Rosemary Oil or Onion Oil?

Rosemary oil is quite versatile \. It can be used in a number of ways – for aromatherapy, for pain relief, for use on skin and hair, etc. 

Onion Hair Oil also finds many uses. It can be consumed, applied on skin and hair, for pain relief among many other things. 

Which Has a Longer Shelf Life – Rosemary Oil or Onion Oil? 

Rosemary oil can generally be used up to 4 years while the shelf life of onion oil is around 2-4 years. However, the exact shelf life may vary from brand to brand, so make sure you check the labels before purchasing. 

Avoid using essential oils past their expiration date. This is because the oils change with time and they could do more harm than good when used beyond their defined time.

I hope this blog gives you better clarity regarding rosemary oil and onion oil. Both are excellent essential oils with multiple uses and benefits. You can pick the one that suits your needs the best. 

In case you have any more questions, I would be happy to assist. Write to me or comment in the section below. 

Rohit Panwar

Hi! I'm Integrated Nutrition Coach Rohit Panwar. I hold twin Certifications from IIN, New York & SAFM, Massachusetts. I am a passionate vocalist of holistic lifestyle and have fully committed the past several years to educate & empower people towards their wellbeing. Despite a successful yet hectic corporate stint of 21+ years, I have prioritised nutriment in my life. I truly hope my personal journey from illness to wellness helps everybody reading this forge their own path.