Clove Oil for Hair Growth
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Those who are experiencing hair loss or thinning hair often look for gentle, natural options to support regrowth. Many pharmaceutical products can have side effects and cost a lot. Clove oil is an accessible plant-based option that has some science to back its effects when used safely.
If you want fuller, stronger hair, consider clove oil as part of a broader scalp-care routine. It is best used diluted and combined with good scalp hygiene, a balanced diet, and care to avoid irritating products. See our related guide on apricot oil for hair for more natural oil options.
Understanding Clove Oil
Clove oil is steam distilled from the bud of the clove tree, Eugenia caryophyllata. The oil is rich in a compound called eugenol. Eugenol gives clove oil its scent and many of its biological actions.
Laboratory studies find eugenol has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Antimicrobial means it can reduce microbes such as bacteria and fungi on the skin. Anti-inflammatory means it can lower redness and swelling that may affect hair follicles.
Cloves also contain small amounts of minerals and vitamins, but the therapeutic activity in the oil is mainly due to eugenol and related volatile compounds. These actions provide a plausible reason clove oil can help scalp health, which in turn can support hair growth.
How Clove Oil May Help Hair
Clove oil may support hair in three practical ways:
- Improving scalp hygiene by reducing microbial overgrowth that can harm follicles.
- Increasing local blood flow when massaged into the scalp, which helps deliver nutrients to follicles.
- Lowering inflammation that can injure hair follicles and slow growth.
Studies suggest essential oils with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects can be useful for scalp conditions. However, there is limited direct clinical research proving clove oil alone regrows hair. Use clove oil as a supportive treatment rather than a guaranteed cure.
How to Use Clove Oil for Your Scalp
Always dilute clove oil before putting it on skin. Undiluted essential oils can irritate or burn the skin. A safe starting dilution is 1 percent to 2 percent for adults.
- 1 percent dilution: 1 drop clove oil per teaspoon (5 ml) carrier oil.
- 2 percent dilution: 2 drops clove oil per teaspoon (5 ml) carrier oil.
Good carrier oils include coconut, olive, jojoba, or grapeseed oil. For a simple scalp treatment, mix 3 to 5 drops of clove oil into a tablespoon of carrier oil. Massage the blend into your scalp for 3 to 5 minutes, then leave it on for 30 minutes to one hour before shampooing.
Frequency: use this 1 to 3 times per week. More frequent use may increase irritation risk. Pay attention to how your scalp responds and reduce frequency if you notice redness or itching.
Simple DIY Scalp Massage Recipe
- 1 tablespoon carrier oil (coconut or jojoba)
- 3 drops clove oil
- Optional: 2 drops rosemary or cedarwood oil for additional hair-supporting properties
Combine oils, warm slightly between your hands, and massage into the scalp for 3 to 5 minutes. Leave on 30 to 60 minutes, then shampoo as usual. Test a small area first.
Safety Precautions
Essential oil safety is important. Follow these precautions to avoid harm.
- Patch test first: apply a small diluted amount to the inside of your forearm and wait 24 hours. Stop use if you get redness, itching, or burning.
- Do not apply undiluted clove oil directly to the scalp. It can irritate skin and damage hair roots.
- Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.
- Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding without medical advice. Some essential oils can affect hormones or cause sensitivity in pregnancy.
- Keep away from children and pets.
- If you have a bleeding disorder or use blood thinners, consult a healthcare provider before use. Eugenol can affect blood clotting in some people.
If you experience severe irritation or a large allergic reaction, stop use and seek medical care.
What the Research Says
Laboratory studies show clove oil has antimicrobial activity against bacteria and fungi and anti-inflammatory effects in skin cells. These findings support its use for scalp issues that involve microbes or inflammation. References include reviews and cell culture studies showing antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity.
Clinical trials specifically testing clove oil for hair regrowth are limited. Research on essential oils in general is more developed and suggests some oils can help when combined with scalp massage and proper dilution. For persistent or severe hair loss, consult a dermatologist who can diagnose causes such as hormonal hair loss, autoimmune conditions, or nutritional deficiencies.
Summary
Clove oil contains eugenol, a compound with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects that may support scalp health. When diluted properly and used as part of a broader hair-care routine, clove oil can be a helpful supportive treatment for thinning hair.
Follow safety steps, do a patch test, and do not rely solely on clove oil for serious hair loss. If hair loss continues or worsens, seek medical evaluation. For an easy option, we also recommend trying products formulated with clove oil. See our favorite clove oil shampoo below.
Our Favorite Clove Oil Shampoo
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