Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsBenefits of Cloves?ApplicationSide EffectsAlternatives for Hair Health
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Benefits of Cloves?
Application
Side Effects
Alternatives for Hair Health
Cloves are aromatic dried flower buds of the clove tree (Syzygium aromaticum) native to Indonesia.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.
This article discusses the potential hair benefits cloves offer and how to incorporate them into your hair care routine.
Antonio Ciufo / Getty Images
Clove Properties and Compounds for Hair
Can Herbs Help With Hair Growth?
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:
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Cloves contain anti-inflammatory compounds like eugenol and gallic acid, which may reduce scalp inflammation and support hair growth.Evidence suggests that gallic acid preserves hair color and strength and promotes growth.
Eugenol may improve blood flow to the scalp and stimulate the development and repair of damaged hair follicles to prevent hair loss.
Antimicrobial and Antifungal Properties
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:
A Word From VerywellCloves 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
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
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.
General Guidelines for Cloves on HairImportant things to keep in mind if you are considering using cloves for hair health are:Always perform a patch test before applying cloves to your hair or scalp. Apply a small amount of clove oil (or water) to the inside of your elbow or underside of your arm. Leave it on for 10 to 20 minutes and wait seven to 10 days to check for signs of irritation (e.g., redness, rash, itchiness).Avoid contact with clove oil and water with your eyes.Discontinue use if you experience irritation or allergy (e.g., itching, burning, redness).
General Guidelines for Cloves on Hair
Important things to keep in mind if you are considering using cloves for hair health are:Always perform a patch test before applying cloves to your hair or scalp. Apply a small amount of clove oil (or water) to the inside of your elbow or underside of your arm. Leave it on for 10 to 20 minutes and wait seven to 10 days to check for signs of irritation (e.g., redness, rash, itchiness).Avoid contact with clove oil and water with your eyes.Discontinue use if you experience irritation or allergy (e.g., itching, burning, redness).
Important things to keep in mind if you are considering using cloves for hair health are:
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.
To make clove oil:
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.
Clove Oil Can Irritate the ScalpApplying undiluted clove essential oil directly to the scalp can cause irritation, including redness, itching, and burning sensations.If you’re interested in using cloves for hair health, ensure clove oil is diluted with a carrier oil like olive oil or jojoba oil, or opt for alternative methods like water rinses or hair masks.
Clove Oil Can Irritate the Scalp
Applying undiluted clove essential oil directly to the scalp can cause irritation, including redness, itching, and burning sensations.If you’re interested in using cloves for hair health, ensure clove oil is diluted with a carrier oil like olive oil or jojoba oil, or opt for alternative methods like water rinses or hair masks.
Applying undiluted clove essential oil directly to the scalp can cause irritation, including redness, itching, and burning sensations.
If you’re interested in using cloves for hair health, ensure clove oil is diluted with a carrier oil like olive oil or jojoba oil, or opt for alternative methods like water rinses or hair masks.
Clove Water Rinse
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.
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:
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:
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:
Certain lifestyle habits can also support healthy hair, including:
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.
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.
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