What Is Clove Water?
Clove water is a DIY infusion prepared by boiling cloves in hot water. This simple technique of hydrodistillationi A traditional method of extracting chemical compounds and essential oils from different plants. helps transfer the bioactive compounds from the spice to the water, making it suitable for therapeutic use (1). Clove water is rich in eugenol that lends it its antimicrobiali Multiplication or growth of microbes such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi in a certain body part or the entire body. properties (2). Its phenolic acid and flavonoid content make it a powerful antioxidant remedy that may be beneficial for your hair (3). Let us scroll down to the next section to see how clove water works for your hair.
How Does Clove Water Work For Hair?
Factors like age, scalp infections, poor nutrition, and exposure to environmental aggressors can slow down hair growth (4),( 5),( 6),( 7). Clove water is rich in phytonutrients like eugenol that nourish, strengthen, and revitalize dormant follicles and promote new hair growth (8). Additionally, exploring cloves benefits reveals that they can protect the scalp from dandruff and fungal infections that contribute to hair loss (9).
8 Benefits Of Clove Water For Hair
1. May Stimulate Hair Growth
Clove water may help promote hair growth and prevent hair loss. In studies, the benefits of clove oil in emu oil emulsion had exhibited anti-hair loss properties and stimulated hair growth (8). Another study suggests that gallic acid (a phenolic acid in cloves) may activate genes that regulate hair growth (10), (11). Helina, a blogger, shared her experience of using clove water as a leave-in conditioner for her hair. She said, “It has grown a bit, shinier than before, and new hair has started growing (i).”
2. Prevents Oxidative Stress
Stress, pollution, sun exposure, smoking, and irregular sleeping and eating habits contribute to the production of free radicals in the body (12), (13), (14). Research suggests a strong association between oxidative stressi An imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants in the body that can lead to premature gray hair and hair loss. and alopecia (15). Clove is rich in polyphenols and other antioxidants that may lower oxidative stress-related hair loss (10).
3. Treats Dandruff
Overproduction of the Malassezia yeast is the primary cause of dandruff. The antifungal properties of clove may help combat dandruff (9). Anecdotal evidence suggests that its astringent properties can reduce oil production on the scalp, while its anti-inflammatory properties can prevent itchiness and scalp irritation.
4. Prevents Scalp Infections and Foul Odor
Excessive sweating, fungal conditions, or improper scalp hygiene can lead to infections and foul odor on the scalp. The antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties of clove water help treat scalp conditions like folliculitisi An infection of the hair follicle caused by bacteria that causes inflammation, redness, and itchiness in the affected area. and ringworm (16),(17). Moreover, the refreshing aroma of clove water leaves your scalp feeling clean and fresh all day.
5. Treats Head Lice
Clove has been used in Indian households for centuries to treat head lice. According to research conducted on head lice collected from 51 volunteers, a formulation made of clove oil diluted in sunflower oil successfully eliminated 90% of the lice within 2 hours (18).
6. Improves Hair Strength & Texture
Anecdotal evidence suggests that cloves are a rich source of vitamins A, B, C and K and antioxidants that may help strengthen the hair shaft and minimize breakage.
7. May Prevent Premature Graying
Oxidative stress can affect the melanin production in your hair, leading to premature gray hair (19). The antioxidants and polyphenols in clove water may help combat oxidative damage and maintain the natural color of your hair.
8. May Enhance Hair Shine
Anecdotal evidence suggests that spritzing your hair with clove water a few times a week may help hydrate your strands. This, in turn, can make them appear well-conditioned and enhance their natural shine. These are the ways clove water can benefit your hair. But can you start using it right away? Or does it have any side effects?
Side Effects Of Using Clove Water On Hair
Topical application of clove water on the hair and scalp is generally considered safe. Unlike clove essential oil, the phytonutrients in clove water are not concentrated. This minimizes the risk of allergic reactions. However, clove water may lead to dry scalp in some individuals. Conduct a patch test to check for an allergic reaction before using clove water on your hair.
Can I Use Clove Water On My Hair Every Day?
Applying clove water every day may not cause any serious side effects. However, it is best to not use it every day as excess use may cause allergic reactions. Anecdotal evidence advises against using hair treatments daily. Washing your hair every two to three days is recommended. Overusing treatments or washing too often may lead to hair loss, scalp irritation, and dryness. Hence, limit the use of treatments like clove water only when necessary. Use concentrated clove water 2 to 3 times a week. You also may sprinkle diluted clove water on your hair as a hair spray. Here are some simple ways to use clove water for improved hair growth.
How To Use Clove Water For Hair Growth
You may simply use clove water as a hair rinse. For it, dilute a cup of clove water with mineral water. Shampoo your hair as you usually do and use this mixture as a final rinse for added shine. Apart from the basic clove water hair rinse, you may try the following recipes.
1. Clove Water And Reetha Shampoo
Reetha contains natural surfactantsi Chemicals used in soaps and detergents that allow them to mix with other substances to help cleanse the scalp. called saponins. When combined with clove water, reetha cleanses the scalp and prevents bacterial or fungal infections (20), (21). You Will Need
3-4 tablespoons of clove water 2 tablespoons of reetha powder
What You Need To Do How Often? 2-3 times a week.
2. Clove Water And Honey Conditioner
Honey is a natural hair conditioner that enhances shine, reduces frizz, and prevents dandruff-related hair loss (22), (23). You Will Need
1-2 tablespoons of honey 2 ½ tablespoons of clove water
What You Need To Do How Often? 2-3 times a week.
3. Clove Water, Avocado, And Rosemary Oil Hair Growth Mask
Avocados are a rich source of vitamin E, which may reduce hair loss (24). Rosemary oil is often used as a natural treatment for androgenetic alopeciai A hereditary condition that causes permanent hair loss due to the body’s abnormal response to androgen hormones. due to its ability to increase hair count (25). It is also used in aromatherapy to reduce stress levels and boost hair growth. You Will Need
1-2 tablespoons of clove water 1 ripe avocado 1-2 drops of rosemary essential oil
What You Need To Do How Often? 1-2 times a week.
4. Clove Water, Hibiscus, And Yogurt Hair Conditioning Mask
Hibiscus is a popular ayurvedic herb that promotes hair growth and improves hair texture (26). Yogurt can help deep condition dry, damaged hair (27). You Will Need
3-4 hibiscus leaves and 2-3 hibiscus flowers (only petals) 2-3 tablespoons of curd 1 ½ -2 tablespoons of clove water
What You Need To Do How Often? 1-2 times a week.
5. Clove Water And Aloe Vera Leave-In-Conditioner
Aloe vera contains vitamins A, C, and E and phenolic compounds that nourish your hair and prevent dandruff, inflammation, and infections on the scalp (28), (29). You Will Need
1-2 tablespoons of clove water 1-2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel
What You Need To Do How Often? Once daily or as required.
6. Clove Water And Methi Hair Mist
Methi or fenugreek seeds work as natural hair conditioners as they contain mucilaginous compounds that absorb moisture and act as a hydrating agent (30), (31). Methi is also extensively used as dandruff treatment in ayurvedic preparations for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties (32). You Will Need
2-3 tablespoons of clove water ½ cup of mineral water 2 tablespoons of methi seeds
What You Need To Do How Often? 2-3 times daily or when required. If you are planning to try out these hair recipes, check out the step-by-step instructions to prepare clove water at home.
How To Make Clove Water For Hair Growth
Here is a step-by-guide for preparing clove water at home. You Will Need
10-15 cloves 2 cups of water
What You Need To Do Can I use clove water on my hair every day? Yes, diluted clove water is safe for daily use. Use concentrated clove water 2-3 times a week. Anecdotal evidence suggests that excess use of clove water may cause dryness and scalp irritation. What can I mix with cloves for hair growth? Herbs such as bhringraj (Eclipta Alba L.), amla (Phyllanthus Emblica Linn.) and rosemary oil (Rosmarinus officinalis) can be mixed with cloves for faster hair growth (33), (11), (25). Can I leave clove water on my hair overnight? It is not advisable to leave clove water on your hair overnight as it may dry out your scalp or cause irritation.
Illustration: Clove Water For Hair: 7 Benefits And Ways To Use It
Learn how to make clove water to help boost hair growth. Click on the video below to follow these simple steps and you will be on your way to luscious locks.
