Clove water is a simple DIY rinse made by simmering whole cloves in water, and it may support hair growth and thickness when used consistently over several weeks. The key active compound in cloves, eugenol, is an antioxidant that can improve blood circulation to the scalp, reduce inflammation, and protect hair follicles from oxidative damage. Here’s how to make it, use it, and what to realistically expect.
Why Cloves May Help Your Hair
Cloves contain several compounds that work in your hair’s favor. Eugenol, the most abundant, fights free radicals that can damage hair follicles and contribute to thinning and premature graying. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that calm scalp irritation, which is a common underlying factor in hair loss. Another compound, gallic acid, adds to this anti-inflammatory effect.
Beyond protecting hair, eugenol may actively stimulate growth by increasing blood flow to the scalp. Better circulation means more oxygen and nutrients reaching your hair follicles, which can encourage follicles in their resting phase to shift back into active growth. Cloves also contain vitamin E, which supports this same circulation benefit and can give new growth a healthier shine.
One animal study published in the Journal of the Faculty of Medicine Baghdad compared topical clove oil to minoxidil (the active ingredient in Rogaine) in mice with hormone-induced hair loss. The clove oil group showed significant improvement in the ratio of actively growing follicles to resting follicles, and their follicular density was comparable to the minoxidil group. That’s a promising signal, though human clinical trials are still limited.
How to Make Clove Water
You only need two ingredients: whole cloves and water. The standard ratio is 1 tablespoon of whole cloves to 1 cup of water. Here’s the process:
- Bring the water to a boil in a small saucepan.
- Add the whole cloves.
- Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. The water will turn a deep amber or brown color.
- Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
- Strain out the cloves and pour the liquid into a spray bottle or container.
If you want a stronger concentration, you can simmer for up to 20 minutes, but start with the shorter time and work up. A more concentrated batch is more likely to cause scalp irritation, especially if you have sensitive skin.
How to Apply It
Start with clean, damp hair. Section your hair and spray or pour the clove water directly onto your scalp, focusing on areas where you want more growth or thickness. Gently massage it into your scalp with your fingertips for a minute or two to help with absorption and further boost circulation.
Leave the clove water on for 20 to 30 minutes, then rinse it out or follow with your regular shampoo. Some people prefer to use it as a final rinse after shampooing and conditioning, leaving it in without rinsing. Either approach works, though leaving it in gives the compounds more contact time with your scalp. If you notice any dryness from leaving it in, switch to the rinse-out method.
Use clove water one to two times per week. More frequent application can increase scalp sensitivity over time, making your skin more reactive even to lighter applications.
When to Expect Results
Hair grows roughly half an inch per month, so any treatment that stimulates follicle activity takes time to show visible results. Most people report noticing changes in scalp feel (less flaking, reduced irritation) within the first couple of weeks. Visible improvements in thickness and new growth typically take four to eight weeks of consistent use. If you’re not seeing any difference after two months of regular application, clove water alone may not be enough for your specific type of hair loss.
How to Store Clove Water
Homemade clove water has no preservatives, so it can grow bacteria at room temperature. Keep it in the refrigerator and plan to use each batch within one week. If you want to make a larger quantity, freeze the extra in ice cube trays or small freezer bags. Thaw a portion the night before you plan to use it. The cold temperature when you apply it straight from the fridge can actually feel refreshing on the scalp, and some people find it helps reduce any mild inflammation.
Side Effects and Patch Testing
Eugenol can cause contact dermatitis in some people, showing up as redness, itching, small bumps, or a burning sensation on the scalp. Before your first application, do a patch test: apply a small amount of the clove water to the inside of your arm or behind your ear and wait 24 hours. If you see redness, swelling, or feel itching, you’re likely sensitive to the compound and should skip this treatment.
A few other things to watch for:
- Color-treated hair: Clove water can alter dyed hair, making the color appear dull or faded. If you’ve recently colored your hair, test a small, hidden section first.
- Eye irritation: Eugenol is irritating to the eyes. Be careful during application, and if it drips toward your face, rinse your eyes immediately with cool water.
- Children under 12: Their scalps are more sensitive to concentrated plant compounds. A patch test is especially important, and the solution should be well diluted.
If you experience a warm or burning sensation during application, your mixture may be too concentrated. Dilute it with more water next time. Frequent use beyond two times per week can gradually increase your scalp’s sensitivity, so resist the urge to apply it daily thinking it will speed up results.
Getting More From Your Clove Water
Clove water works well as one piece of a broader hair care routine rather than a standalone miracle fix. Pairing it with a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo helps keep your scalp environment healthy. Some people add rosemary to their clove simmer, since rosemary has its own evidence for supporting hair growth through similar circulation-boosting mechanisms. If you go this route, add a sprig of fresh rosemary or a teaspoon of dried rosemary to the pot along with your cloves.
Scalp massage during application is more than a nice ritual. Regular massage physically stimulates blood flow to the follicles, which amplifies the circulation benefits of the eugenol. Even just two minutes of firm, circular pressure with your fingertips while applying the rinse can make a meaningful difference over weeks of consistent practice.