If you are looking for a natural remedy that addresses multiple hair concerns, clove water may be the solution. While clove is widely known as a flavorful spice in culinary dishes, it also offers numerous benefits for hair care.
Clove water is believed to help combat hair fall and improve scalp health. As an ayurvedic ingredient, it is readily available, affordable, and suitable for most hair types. Incorporating clove water into your hair care routine may promote stronger, healthier hair while addressing common scalp issues.
- What Is Clove Water?
- How Does Clove Water Work for Hair?
- Benefits
- Side Effects
- How to Make Clove Water
- How to Use Clove Water
What Is Clove Water?
Clove water is a natural infusion made by boiling cloves in hot water. This simple process, known as hydrodistillation, helps extract the bioactive compounds from cloves, making the water suitable for therapeutic use.
Clove water is rich in eugenol, a compound known for its antimicrobial properties. Additionally, its high phenolic acid and flavonoid content make it a potent antioxidant remedy, which may provide various benefits for hair health.
How Does Clove Water Work for Hair?
Various factors such as aging, scalp infections, poor nutrition, and environmental stressors can slow down hair growth. Clove water is packed with phytonutrients like eugenol, which help nourish the scalp, strengthen hair follicles, and stimulate new hair growth.
Clove water also protects the scalp from dandruff and fungal infections that contribute to hair loss. Research has shown that clove extracts can effectively combat Malassezia furfur, the fungus responsible for dandruff. The study found that even a small amount of clove extract could inhibit fungal growth, making it a potential natural remedy for dandruff and scalp-related issues.
By incorporating clove water into a hair care routine, it may help improve scalp health, reduce hair fall, and promote overall hair strength.
Benefits of Clove Water for Hair
1. May Stimulate Hair Growth
Clove water may support hair growth and help prevent hair loss. Studies have shown that clove oil in an emu oil emulsion demonstrated anti-hair loss properties and stimulated hair growth. Another study suggests that gallic acid, a phenolic compound found in cloves, may activate genes responsible for hair growth.
Many individuals who have used clove water as a leave-in conditioner report noticeable improvements in hair health, including shinier strands and the appearance of new hair growth.
2. Prevents Oxidative Stress
Factors such as pollution, sun exposure, smoking, and irregular sleep and eating habits can lead to oxidative stress, which has been strongly linked to alopecia. Clove is rich in polyphenols and antioxidants that may help reduce oxidative stress-related hair loss.
3. Treats Dandruff
Dandruff is primarily caused by an overgrowth of Malassezia yeast on the scalp. The antifungal properties of clove may help combat dandruff by controlling yeast growth. Additionally, its astringent properties may help reduce excess oil production, while its anti-inflammatory effects can soothe scalp irritation and itchiness.
4. Prevents Scalp Infections and Foul Odor
Scalp infections and unpleasant odors can result from excessive sweating, fungal conditions, or poor scalp hygiene. The antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties of clove water may help treat conditions such as folliculitis and ringworm. Additionally, clove’s natural aroma keeps the scalp feeling fresh and clean throughout the day.
5. Treats Head Lice
Clove has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to eliminate head lice. Research conducted on head lice collected from 51 volunteers found that a formulation containing clove oil diluted in sunflower oil successfully eliminated 90% of the lice within two hours.
6. Improves Hair Strength and Texture
Cloves are packed with essential vitamins, including vitamins A, B, C, and K, as well as antioxidants. These nutrients may help strengthen the hair shaft, reduce breakage, and improve overall hair texture.
7. May Prevent Premature Graying
Oxidative stress can disrupt melanin production in the hair, leading to premature graying. The antioxidants and polyphenols in clove water may help combat oxidative damage, preserving the natural color of the hair.
8. May Enhance Hair Shine
Anecdotal evidence suggests that spritzing clove water onto the hair a few times a week can help hydrate the strands, leaving them well-conditioned and enhancing their natural shine.
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, clove water contains diluted phytonutrients, reducing the risk of allergic reactions. However, in some cases, clove water may cause dryness of the scalp.
To avoid any adverse reactions, it is recommended to conduct a patch test before applying clove water to the scalp. If irritation, redness, or excessive dryness occurs, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist if needed.
How to Make Clove Water for Hair Growth
Creating clove water at home is a simple and cost-effective way to enhance hair health. This natural infusion requires minimal ingredients and can be prepared in just a few steps.
Ingredients Needed
- 10 to 15 whole cloves
- 2 cups of water
Preparation Steps
- Pour the water into a pot and bring it to a boil.
- Add the cloves to the boiling water, then turn off the heat.
- Cover the pot and allow the mixture to steep for about an hour.
- Strain the liquid and transfer it to a spray bottle for easy application.
You can use clove water as a leave-in mist or as a final rinse after shampooing to promote scalp health and hair growth. For best results, store the solution in the refrigerator and use it within a few days.
How to Use Clove Water for Hair Growth
Clove water can be used as a simple hair rinse or combined with other natural ingredients to enhance its benefits. For a basic rinse, dilute one cup of clove water with mineral water. After shampooing, use this mixture as a final rinse to add shine and improve scalp health. In addition to this method, the following DIY hair treatments incorporate clove water for specific hair concerns.
1. Clove Water and Reetha Shampoo
Reetha, rich in natural surfactants called saponins, works as a gentle cleanser that removes dirt and excess oil while preventing bacterial and fungal infections on the scalp.
You Will Need
- 3-4 tablespoons of clove water
- 2 tablespoons of reetha powder
What You Need to Do
- Mix both ingredients in a bowl.
- Apply the mixture to your scalp and massage gently to create a lather.
- Leave it on for five minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
How Often?
2-3 times a week.
2. Clove Water and Honey Conditioner
Honey is a natural humectant that conditions the hair, reduces frizz, and prevents dandruff-related hair loss.
You Will Need
- 1-2 tablespoons of honey
- 2 ½ tablespoons of clove water
What You Need to Do
- Mix the ingredients in a bowl.
- Apply the mixture evenly throughout your hair length.
- Leave it on for 10 minutes.
- Rinse off with cold water.
How Often?
2-3 times a week.
3. Clove Water, Avocado, and Rosemary Oil Hair Growth Mask
Avocados are packed with vitamin E, which may help reduce hair loss. Rosemary oil is known for its ability to stimulate hair growth and is often used in natural treatments for androgenetic alopecia.
You Will Need
- 1-2 tablespoons of clove water
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1-2 drops of rosemary essential oil
What You Need to Do
- Mash the avocado and mix it with clove water and rosemary oil.
- Apply the mixture to your scalp and along the length of your hair.
- Cover your head with a shower cap and leave it on for 20-30 minutes.
- Rinse off with lukewarm water.
How Often?
1-2 times a week.
4. Clove Water, Hibiscus, and Yogurt Hair Conditioning Mask
Hibiscus is a widely used Ayurvedic herb that promotes hair growth and enhances texture. Yogurt helps in deep conditioning and repairing damaged hair.
You Will Need
- 3-4 hibiscus leaves and 2-3 hibiscus flower petals
- 2-3 tablespoons of curd
- 1 ½ -2 tablespoons of clove water
What You Need to Do
- Blend the hibiscus leaves and petals into a smooth paste.
- Add the other ingredients and mix well.
- Apply to the scalp and along the hair length.
- Leave it on for 20-30 minutes.
- Rinse with lukewarm water.
How Often?
1-2 times a week.
5. Clove Water and Aloe Vera Leave-In Conditioner
Aloe vera contains vitamins A, C, and E, along with phenolic compounds that nourish the hair and combat dandruff, inflammation, and scalp infections.
You Will Need
- 1-2 tablespoons of clove water
- 1-2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel
What You Need to Do
- Mix the ingredients to form a thin consistency.
- Massage into the scalp and apply from roots to tips.
- Leave it on for five minutes and gently comb through to detangle hair.
How Often?
Once daily or as required.
6. Clove Water and Methi Hair Mist
Methi (fenugreek seeds) works as a natural hair conditioner, hydrating the hair while providing anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits.
You Will Need
- 2-3 tablespoons of clove water
- ½ cup of mineral water
- 2 tablespoons of methi seeds
What You Need to Do
- Soak the methi seeds in mineral water for at least six hours or overnight.
- Strain the methi-infused water and mix it with clove water.
- Transfer the mixture to a spray bottle and use it as a hair mist whenever needed.
How Often?
2-3 times daily or as required.
Each of these clove water-based treatments offers a natural way to nourish the scalp, strengthen hair strands, and promote healthier hair growth.