An essential oil is produced by distilling the leaves, flowers, stems, bark or roots of a plant. Essential oils have long been used in the production of perfume and aromatherapy. They also play a large role in natural hair care. Not only do essential oils add an appealing fragrance to the hair, but each oil has properties that can improve its condition.

Lavender oil is an essential oil created when flower spikes of the lavender plant are distilled. It has an uplifting, floral scent. Lavender oil promotes hair growth and prevents loss. Apply lavender oil neat to dry hair and scalp. Alternatively, add it to a carrier oil, such as olive oil, and massage into the hair and scalp. Wrap the hair in a towel and allow the mixture to sit on the hair for 15 minutes. Rinse the mixture from the hair.

Lemon oil is an essential oil extracted from the peels of lemons and has a refreshing, clean aroma. It is suitable for cleaning greasy hair, treating dandruff, adding volume and restoring shine to dry hair. Mix 20 drops of the lemon oil into 1 cup of your everyday shampoo. Wash the hair as directed on the shampoo bottle.

The oil extracted from the herb peppermint has an energizing scent. Peppermint oil can stimulate follicles, promote hair growth and treat oily scalp. Do not apply undiluted peppermint oil directly to the scalp. As part of a hair care regimen, mix 2 drops of oil with 4 ounces of water and massage the mixture into the hair and scalp. Let sit for 15 minutes, then rinse.

Grapefruit essential oil is cold-pressed from the rind of ripened grapefruit. It has a sweet, citrus scent. Using grapefruit oil on the hair will keep it shiny; add it to your hair care products such as shampoos and conditioners. Dispense the portion of product you will use into a small container and add 2 to 3 drops of grapefruit oil. Apply the mixture as directed on product label.