Cloves for Hair: Benefits, Uses, and Side Effects

You may know that cloves — the aromatic, versatile spice — are often used in home remedies. You may have even used them yourself. However, you might not know that many people also use cloves for hair health.

Cloves are commonly used in Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine, for their antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Outside of Ayurveda, people use cloves for many issues, from dental problems and skin conditions to sexual health.

But is clove good for hair, or is it just another beauty trend without the science to back it up?

Let’s dive into the potential benefits of cloves for hair. We’ll also give you some tips on how to use them and share some alternative hair care treatments.

Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum) are said to have many health benefits — and some cloves’ health properties might even benefit your hair.

1. Combats Oxidative Stress

Your hair and scalp are constantly exposed to free radicals. When free radicals accumulate in your body, it causes oxidative stress.

This oxidative stress can damage hair follicles, which leads to hair thinning and hair loss.

Cloves are rich in antioxidants, which help neutralize free radicals and protect the scalp from damage. Eugenol, the main bioactive compound in cloves, is particularly effective at reducing oxidative stress.

2. Enhances Scalp Circulation

Blood flow to the scalp delivers essential nutrients and oxygen to hair follicles, which are critical for healthy hair growth.

Certain compounds in cloves — eugenol in particular — may have circulation-boosting properties. By improving circulation, they might help stimulate hair follicles and create a healthy scalp environment.

However, there are no specific studies on cloves and blood circulation in the scalp.

3. Fights Scalp Infections

A healthy scalp is essential for strong, vibrant hair.

Cloves have antifungal and antibacterial properties, which means they might help combat the bacteria and fungi that can cause dandruff, folliculitis, and an itchy scalp.

One study showed that topically applying clove oil can relieve chronic itchiness.

Another study looked at the effects of cloves on scalp infections. Using scalp samples from six volunteers, the researchers found that clove extract slowed the growth of Staphylococcus aureus (a bacteria) and Cryptococcus neoformans (a fungus).

This study was very small, so it can’t tell us anything for sure, but it does suggest that clove extract could help treat scalp infections.

4. Reduces Inflammation

Chronic inflammation can disrupt the hair growth cycle and lead to thinning.

Cloves have anti-inflammatory properties — eugenol, in particular, seems to reduce inflammation. For this reason, a clove-based treatment may soothe scalp irritation, reduce redness, and support healthy hair growth.

However, no research supports the idea that cloves can specifically help scalp inflammation or thinning hair.

Many people claim that clove water boosts hair growth and reduces hair fall, but there’s no science to back these claims up.

However, cloves might indirectly support healthy hair growth by supporting scalp health.

Good blood circulation supports healthy hair growth because it helps hair follicles get the oxygen and nutrients they need to function properly. Since cloves improve blood circulation, it may help with this.

However, there aren’t any clinical studies that prove this hypothesis.

Hair loss usually gets worse over time, so if you have thinning hair or another early sign of hair loss, don’t waste time experimenting with unproven home remedies.

Instead, opt for clinically proven hair loss treatments like minoxidil or finasteride. You can always use cloves as a complementary treatment.

If you’re intrigued by the potential benefits of cloves for hair, there are many ways to add them to your hair care routine.

1. Clove Water for Hair

Clove water is a simple and natural way to nourish your scalp and hair.

Here’s how to make a clove water hair spray:

1. Boil one to two tablespoons of cloves in two cups of water for 10–15 minutes.

2. Allow the mixture to cool, then strain out the cloves.

3. Transfer the clove water into a spray bottle.

Spritz the clove water directly onto your scalp and hair, focusing on the roots. Leave it on for 20–30 minutes before rinsing or shampooing. Use one to two times a week for best results.

If you don’t have a spray bottle, you can use the same formula as a hair rinse.

2. Clove Oil Scalp Treatment

Clove oil can provide a concentrated dose of eugenol to boost circulation and soothe irritation.

Try the following:

1. Dilute a few drops of clove essential oil with a few tablespoons of carrier oil (such as coconut or jojoba oil).

2. Massage the mixture into your scalp for five to 10 minutes.

3. Leave it on for 30 minutes before washing your hair.

It’s important to use a carrier oil with clove oil because it reduces the chance of skin irritation. Plus, carrier oils help a little essential oil go a long way — and they can be very hydrating for your hair and scalp.

3. DIY Clove Hair Mask

A clove-infused hair mask can moisturize your scalp and strengthen your strands.

To make your own, mix one tablespoon of ground cloves with two tablespoons of honey and one tablespoon of olive oil to create a paste.

Alternatively, buy a store-bought hair mask and add a few drops of clove oil.

Apply the mask to your scalp and hair, leave it on for 20–30 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Shampoo and condition as usual.

Cloves are generally safe, especially when used topically. Still, it’s important to use them correctly to avoid irritation or adverse effects.

Potential side effects of clove hair treatments include:

• Scalp sensitivity. Clove oil is potent and may irritate your scalp, causing redness and itchiness. Always dilute it with carrier oil.

• Allergic reactions. While rare, it’s possible to be allergic to cloves.

• Dryness. Overuse of clove-based products can sometimes dry out the scalp or hair. Use them sparingly and follow up with a moisturizing conditioner.

It’s a good idea to perform a patch test before using cloves on your scalp to ensure you don’t have an allergic reaction or that it doesn’t cause irritation.

Cloves may have some benefits for supporting hair health, but they shouldn’t be the only weapon in your arsenal if you’re dealing with hair loss.

Instead, opt for proven hair loss treatments like:

• Minoxidil. This topical treatment, approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for hair loss, stimulates hair follicles and promotes regrowth. It’s available over the counter as minoxidil foam and minoxidil solution.

• Finasteride. The other FDA-approved treatment for hair loss is finasteride, which is usually taken as an oral medication. It reduces dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the hormone responsible for male pattern baldness.

• A combo treatment. Because minoxidil and finasteride work better together, you can use them at the same time — like with our topical finasteride & minoxidil spray.

• DHT-blocking shampoos. Look for products containing ingredients like saw palmetto or ketoconazole to reduce scalp DHT levels. For example, our thickening shampoo contains saw palmetto.

• Supplements. Nutritional deficiencies can contribute to hair loss. If you have a deficiency, supplements like biotin, zinc, and iron can support healthy hair growth.

• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy. PRP injections, a newer hair loss treatment, use your body’s growth factors to stimulate dormant hair follicles.

• Hair transplant surgery. Although hair restoration surgery is quite pricey, it’s an effective, long-term solution for significant hair loss.

Not sure where to start? A healthcare professional can help you by assessing your hair loss and suggesting a treatment plan. This might involve one or more of the above treatments.

Cloves are a versatile natural remedy with properties that may indirectly support hair growth and scalp health. These antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties might make them a great addition to your hair care routine.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Cloves may have some benefits for hair health. Cloves can combat oxidative stress, improve circulation, and promote a healthier scalp. However, they need to be studied further before we fully understand their benefits for hair.

• It’s easy to use. You can make DIY treatments like clove water and clove oil. Just use them in moderation to avoid irritation.

• They’re not a cure-all. While cloves offer potential benefits, no research suggests they can prevent or reverse hair loss.

Want to learn more? We’ve put together a blog post rounding up the best tips for natural hair growth.

If you think you’re experiencing hair loss, the first step is to speak with a healthcare professional like a general practitioner or dermatologist. They can help you explore your treatment options.