- Cloves
- Key Compounds: Eugenol (known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties)
- Hair Benefits: May promote circulation to the scalp, aiding in hair follicle stimulation and potentially encouraging faster hair growth.
- Carrier Oil
- Suggestions: Coconut oil, olive oil, or almond oil (choose one)
- Hair Benefits: Nourishes the scalp, seals in moisture, and provides a base for infusing clove’s active compounds.
- Optional: Additional Herbs
- Examples: Curry leaves, fenugreek seeds, or rosemary
- Hair Benefits: Enhance the scalp-soothing, growth-promoting properties of your DIY hair oil.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Clove Hair Oil
- Gather Your Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon of whole cloves (if you prefer, lightly crush them)
- 1 cup (approximately 200–250 ml) of a carrier oil (e.g., coconut oil)
- Optional: A handful of curry leaves or a tablespoon of fenugreek seeds
- Heat the Oil
- In a small, heavy-bottomed pan, add your chosen carrier oil and warm it over low heat. Avoid high heat to preserve the nutrients in the oil.
- Infuse with Cloves
- Once the oil is warm (not boiling), add the cloves. If you’re using optional herbs like curry leaves or fenugreek seeds, add them at this stage as well.
- Stir gently to ensure the cloves are fully immersed, releasing their natural oils into the carrier oil.
- Simmer Gently
- Keep the mixture on low heat for about 10–15 minutes, or until the cloves become aromatic and the oil turns a slightly deeper color.
- Avoid overheating to prevent burning, which can reduce the effectiveness of the oil.
- Cool and Strain
- Turn off the heat and allow the mixture to cool.
- Strain the infused oil into a clean, airtight glass jar or bottle to remove any solid particles.
- Storage
- Store your freshly made clove hair oil in a cool, dark place. Properly stored, it can last up to 2–3 months.