Cloves for Hair Growth: Alternative Remedy or Just a Spice?

Cloves are aromatic dried flower buds of the clove tree (Syzygium aromaticum) native to Indonesia.1 A familiar ingredient in many kitchens, cloves are gaining popularity as an alternative remedy for hair growth. Though research is ongoing, some studies suggest that cloves contain properties that contribute to a healthy scalp and stimulate hair growth.2

This article discusses the potential hair benefits cloves offer and how to incorporate them into your hair care routine. 

Clove Properties and Compounds for Hair

Cloves have a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda, the system of medicine of ancient India. They are rich in antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antifungal properties that may benefit hair health by improving scalp health, reducing inflammation, and nourishing hair follicles.3

Antioxidants 

Cloves are rich in antioxidants, like eugenol, which can help fight harmful unstable molecules made during cell division called free radicals and an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants known as oxidative stress that cause cell damage and lead to several hair concerns, including:4

• Androgenetic alopecia, including male-pattern and female-pattern baldness5
• Alopecia areata, an autoimmune disorder that causes hair loss6
• Premature and age-related hair graying7
• Thinning and weakened hair8

The antioxidants in cloves may help prevent hair loss and premature graying and improve hair strength and thickness by protecting against oxidative stress. Eugenol and other antioxidant compounds in cloves may also improve blood circulation to the scalp, promoting hair follicle activity and subsequent hair growth.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties 

Cloves have powerful anti-inflammatory properties that may help control scalp inflammation and benefit hair health and growth. Chronic scalp inflammation can disrupt the normal hair growth cycle and is associated with conditions that contribute to hair loss, including seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff, and scalp psoriasis. Cloves may also help reduce scalp discomfort and itchiness related to these conditions by reducing inflammation.910

Cloves contain anti-inflammatory compounds like eugenol and gallic acid, which may reduce scalp inflammation and support hair growth.11 Evidence suggests that gallic acid preserves hair color and strength and promotes growth.12

Eugenol may improve blood flow to the scalp and stimulate the development and repair of damaged hair follicles to prevent hair loss.13

Antimicrobial and Antifungal Properties 

Cloves may promote a healthy scalp environment by preventing or fighting scalp infections, which can contribute to hair loss and inhibit hair growth.5 Traditional medicine uses of cloves include fighting bacterial, viral, and fungal infections.1

Cloves' antimicrobial compounds, including eugenol, gallic acid, and flavonoids, may combat scalp infections caused by bacteria and fungi that are associated with hair loss, such as Candida (yeast) and tinea capitis (scalp ringworm).141516  

Nutrients in Cloves for Hair Growth 

While most hair health benefits of cloves stem from their antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, cloves also contain nutrients that support healthy hair. These include: 

• Beta-carotene: The body converts beta-carotene into vitamin A, which plays a role in hair health by regulating sebum production in the hair follicle cycle. Sebum is a natural oil secreted by hair follicles that moisturizes the scalp and keeps hair strands hydrated. Beta-carotene in cloves may prevent dry, brittle hair and hair loss.17
• Vitamin E: An antioxidant, vitamin E can help combat free radical damage and may improve blood circulation to the scalp, which may benefit hair growth by delivering essential nutrients to the hair follicles, giving new hair growth a lustrous shine.18
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Studies show that omega-3 fatty acids may help prevent hair loss and scalp irritation and increase hair density, which may contribute to stronger, thicker, shinier hair strands.19

A Word From Verywell

Cloves are generally considered safe to use topically to support hair growth and strengthening. They can potentially be used with or without other treatments.

— EMILY DASHIELL, ND, MEDICAL EXPERT BOARD

How to Apply Cloves for Hair Growth

Research on cloves' effects on hair growth focuses on the compounds in cloves and their effects on scalp and hair health, not specific application techniques. Popular ways to apply cloves for hair growth include clove-infused oil, clove water rinse, and do-it-yourself (DIY) clove hair masks.

Clove-Infused Oil for Scalp Massage

Clove oil for scalp massage is a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil, infused with cloves. Massaging clove oil onto the scalp increases blood flow to the hair follicles, stimulating hair growth and increasing hair thickness.21

To make clove oil:22

1. Crush one-half teaspoon of whole cloves with a mortar and pestle. 
2. Add crushed cloves to 4 ounces (one-half cup) of carrier oil (e.g., coconut, jojoba, or olive oil) in a jar. 
3. Seal the jar and let the cloves infuse in the carrier oil for a week. 
4. Strain the solids from the oil, and pour the homemade clove oil into a clear bottle or jar. 
   

When your clove oil is ready, gently massage the oil onto your scalp with your fingertips. Leave it on for approximately 20 minutes before shampooing.23

Clove Water Rinse

A clove water rinse for hair is made by steeping whole cloves in hot water. Boil 2 cups of water and add 2 tablespoons of whole cloves. Let it simmer for ten minutes, remove from heat, and let the water cool completely.

After straining the cloves from the liquid, you can use the remaining clove water as a final rinse after shampooing and conditioning your hair. You can also add clove water to a spray bottle and spray it on your hair several days a week to give it a healthy, shiny glow.25

DIY Clove Hair Masks 

A clove hair mask is a DIY hair treatment that mixes cloves with other hair-nourishing ingredients to create a thick paste applied to the scalp and hair. The specific ingredients and their ratios can vary. Here's a clove hair mask recipe:26

• 2 ounces of clove water
• 2 tablespoons of plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• 1 egg 

Apply the mask to damp hair, focusing on the scalp and roots. Leave the mask on for 20 to 30 minutes before rinsing it thoroughly with lukewarm water or shampooing and conditioning your hair as usual. 

Side Effects From Clove Hair Application 

While cloves offer potential benefits for scalp and hair health, it's important to use them cautiously and discontinue use if you develop adverse reactions. Common side effects of applying clove oil to the hair and scalp include:24

• Scalp irritation: People with sensitive skin or those using undiluted clove oil may experience skin redness, itching, burning, or stinging sensations.
• Allergic skin reaction: People with a clove allergy may develop an allergic reaction, including hives, skin blistering, redness, itchiness, and burning.27
• Eye irritation: Contact with the eyes can cause severe irritation or damage.  
• Respiratory distress: Inhalation of clove water or oil can cause breathing difficulties.

Use clove preparations in moderation. Overuse can cause scalp dryness and irritation. If you experience irritation or discomfort, discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider. 

Clove Alternatives to Support Hair Health 

Several alternatives to cloves can support hair health and promote hair growth. If you'd like to try other DIY preparations for promoting hair growth, consider: 

• Rosemary: Similar to cloves, rosemary contains properties that may promote hair growth. You can dilute it with a carrier oil for scalp massage or make rosemary water hair rinse.28
• Green tea rinse: Green tea is rich in antioxidants that can help combat free radical damage in the scalp, which may create a healthy environment for hair growth.29
• Scalp massage with carrier oils: Regular scalp massage with carrier oils like coconut, jojoba, or almond oil can improve blood circulation to the scalp, which may support hair growth.21
  

Certain lifestyle habits can also support healthy hair, including: 

• Balanced diet: A diet rich in essential nutrients like protein, iron, zinc, vitamin D, B vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids can contribute to healthy hair growth.30
• Maintain a hair care routine: A clean and healthy scalp is essential for optimal hair growth. This includes regular shampooing and conditioning and washing your hair more frequently if you have an oily scalp.31
• Stress management: Chronic stress can contribute to hair loss. Techniques like mindfulness, meditation, deep breathing exercises, or spending time in nature can help manage stress.32
• Supplements: A healthcare provider may recommend supplements like biotin (vitamin B7) to support hair growth if you lack certain nutrients.33

It's essential to consult a healthcare provider, such as a dermatologist, before trying new hair care remedies or treatments, especially if you have underlying health conditions or concerns about hair loss. They can recommend the most suitable treatment approach, such as prescription medications for treating hair loss or laser therapy to promote hair growth and thickness.34

Summary 

For those experiencing hair loss or scalp issues, cloves offer a natural approach worth considering. While not a guaranteed solution, incorporating cloves into your hair care routine through infused oils, rinses, or masks may promote a healthier scalp environment.

Remember to perform a patch test and dilute cloves properly to avoid irritation. Consult a healthcare provider or dermatologist for personalized advice for concerns or chronic scalp conditions.