If you have been searching for one remedy that takes care of all your hair needs, we suggest you try clove water or oil for your hair. Clove is commonly used as a healthy spice in different culinary preparations. However, you may not know that it combats hair fall and other scalp conditions as well – and it is an ayurvedic spice that is readily available, affordable, and suitable for most hair types. In this article, we discuss the benefits of clove water and oil for hair and the different ways to use it
What Is Clove Water?
Clove water is a DIY infusion prepared by boiling cloves in hot water. This simple technique of hydro distillation helps transfer the bioactive compounds from the spice to the water, making it suitable for therapeutic use.
Clove water is rich in eugenol that lends it its antimicrobial properties. Its phenolic acid and flavonoid content make it a powerful antioxidant remedy that may be beneficial for your hair.
What Is Clove Oil?
Clove oil is an essential oil that’s derived from clove trees.
Clove oil is produced by distilling the dried flower buds that are collected from the clove tree. Other parts of the tree, such as the stem and leaves, may also be used.
Clove oil, which ranges in color from colorless to light yellow and has a strong, spicy aroma, has been used for centuries in a variety of applications.
How Does Clove Water And Oil Work For Hair?
Factors like age, scalp infections, poor nutrition, and exposure to environmental aggressors can slow down hair growth. Clove water is rich in phytonutrients like eugenol that nourish, strengthen, and revitalize dormant follicles and promote new hair growth. Cloves can also protect the scalp from dandruff and fungal infections that contribute to hair loss.
Benefits Of Clove Water And Oil
- May Stimulate Hair Growth
Clove water Or Oil may help promote hair growth and prevent hair loss. In studies, clove oil in emu oil emulsion had exhibited anti-hair loss properties and stimulated hair growth. Another study suggests that gallic acid (a phenolic acid in cloves) may activate genes that regulate hair growth
- Prevents Oxidative Stress
Stress, pollution, sun exposure, smoking, and irregular sleeping and eating habits contribute to the production of free radicals in the body. Research suggests a strong association between oxidative stress and alopecia. Clove is rich in polyphenols and other antioxidants that may lower oxidative stress-related hair loss.
- Treats Dandruff
Overproduction of the Malassezia yeast is the primary cause of dandruff. The antifungal properties of clove may help combat dandruff. 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.
- Prevents Scalp Infection and Foul Odour
Excessive sweating, fungal conditions, or improper scalp hygiene can lead to infections and foul odour on the scalp. The antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties of clove water help treat scalp conditions like folliculitis and ringworm. Moreover, the refreshing aroma of clove water leaves your scalp feeling clean and fresh all day.
- 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.
How To Use Clove Water For Hair Growth
- Clove Water And Reetha
Reetha contains natural surfactants called saponins. When combined with clove water, reetha cleanses the scalp and prevents bacterial or fungal infections
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 hair and massage with your fingertips to work up a lather.
- Leave it on for 5 minutes.
- Rinse off with lukewarm water.
How Often – 2 to 3 times a week
- Clove Water, Avocado, And Rosemary Oil Hair Growth Mask
Avocados are a rich source of vitamin E, which may reduce hair loss. Rosemary oil is often used as a natural treatment for androgenetic alopecia due to its ability to increase hair count. It is also used in aromatherapy to reduce stress levels and boost hair growth. We recommend using Root2tip’s Growth It Long Scalp Serum along with this to further enhance your 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
- Mash the avocado and mix it with clove water and rosemary oil.
- Apply the mixture throughout 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.
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
- Bring the water to a boil in a saucepan.
- Add the cloves to the boiling water and turn off the heat.
- Cover and let it cool for an hour.
- Strain the water and store it in a spray bottle for use later.
How to Use Clove Oil for Hair Growth?
Firstly, you need to dilute clove oil by mixing a few drops of it with any base oil such as olive oil, coconut oil or jojoba oil. Typically a 1-2% essential oil in the rest of carrier oil is suggested. Now, massage your scalp with this oil blend and allow it to work overnight. In the following morning, rinse off the oils with any mild shampoo and warm water. Apply this oil mask twice a week to make your hair shaft healthy and encourage good hair growth.
Clove Benefits for skin
Heals and prevents acne
The antibacterial and antiseptic properties of cloves kill acne-causing bacteria and keep breakouts at bay. Clove oil contains a compound called eugenol that helps in treating acne by reducing the inflammation and redness. To reap the benefits of clove, mix a few drops of clove essential oil with a carrier oil and use it as a spot treatment or add it to your daily moisturiser and apply all over the face. Avoid using clove oil if you have sensitive skin.
Fights the signs of ageing
Did you know clove oil is a powerful anti-ageing ingredient used in cosmetics? It works in reducing skin sagging and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The application of clove oil improves blood circulation, which gives skin a youthful and radiant look. Mix a few drops of clove oil in your serum or moisturizer and apply on cleansed skin at night, before going to bed for the best results.
Fades dark spots and blemishes
Apart from healing and preventing acne, another clove oil benefit is that it also fades dark spots and blemishes left behind by acne and pimples. It has mild exfoliating properties that remove dead skin cells and ensure an even skin tone. Mix a few drops of clove essential oil with a carrier oil and massage onto your face in circular motions. Repeat every night for the best results.
Conclusion
Clove is a simple herbal treatment you can include in your hair care routine. It is filled with antioxidants and has antiseptic properties and essential nutrients that boost hair growth and overall hair health. You can combine it with simple kitchen ingredients or simply spray it on your hair to nourish your hair. However, practice caution while using as it may cause dryness and irritation. If you develop any adverse reactions, stop using it immediately.
Visit www.root2tip.com for variety of haircare products.