Looking for a natural way to support the appearance of thicker, fuller hair? This simple DIY onion and clove hair oil is a popular home remedy often used to nourish the scalp and hair strands. It’s an easy-to-make blend that harnesses the traditional benefits of these common kitchen ingredients.
Quick Recipe
Prep time: 15 minutes
Best for: Supporting hair thickness and scalp health
Use type: Hair oil
Main ingredients:
- Onion
- Whole cloves
- Carrier oil (like coconut or olive oil)
Ingredients
- 1 medium-sized red onion
- 1 tablespoon whole cloves
- 1 cup carrier oil (such as organic coconut oil, olive oil, or almond oil)
- Fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth
- A clean, airtight glass bottle for storage
How to Make It
- Prepare the onion: Peel and finely chop the red onion. You can also grate it or blend it into a paste to extract more juice, though finely chopping is usually sufficient for oil infusion.
- Combine and heat: In a small saucepan, combine the chopped onion, whole cloves, and your chosen carrier oil.
- Infuse the oil: Heat the mixture on low heat for about 10-15 minutes. Do not let the oil boil or smoke; the goal is to gently warm it to allow the active compounds from the onion and cloves to infuse into the oil. Stir occasionally. You’ll notice the onion bits turning slightly golden.
- Cool down: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the oil mixture cool completely to room temperature. This allows for further infusion as it cools.
- Strain the oil: Once cooled, strain the oil through a fine-mesh strainer or several layers of cheesecloth into your clean glass bottle. Press the onion and clove solids firmly to extract all the oil.
- Store: Seal the bottle tightly. Your DIY onion and clove hair oil is now ready for use!
How to Use It
- Patch test: Before full application, apply a small amount of oil to a discreet area of your scalp (like behind the ear) and wait 24 hours to check for any irritation or allergic reaction.
- Application: Part your hair into sections. Using your fingertips, gently massage a small amount of the oil directly onto your scalp. You can also apply it lightly to the lengths of your hair if desired.
- Massage: Spend 5-10 minutes massaging your scalp in circular motions to help stimulate circulation.
- Leave on: Leave the oil on for at least 30 minutes, or for a deeper treatment, you can leave it on overnight (cover your pillow with a towel to prevent oil stains).
- Rinse: Wash your hair thoroughly with a mild shampoo and conditioner to remove all traces of the oil. You may need to shampoo twice to ensure it’s fully rinsed out, especially if you’re sensitive to strong smells.
How Often to Use It
For best results, use this DIY onion and clove hair oil 1-2 times a week. Consistent application over several weeks is often suggested to observe potential benefits.
Why These Ingredients Are Used
Onion
Onion juice is a well-known traditional remedy for hair care, rich in sulfur. Sulfur is considered a component of keratin, a protein essential for hair strength. It’s often associated with promoting hair growth and improving circulation to the scalp.
Cloves
Cloves are aromatic spices known for their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. In hair care, they are often used to help maintain a healthy scalp environment, which is crucial for healthy-looking hair. They also contribute a pleasant aroma that can help mask the strong scent of onion.
What Results to Expect
With regular and consistent use, this DIY onion and clove hair oil may help support a healthier scalp environment, which can contribute to the appearance of stronger, fuller-looking hair over time. While dramatic transformations within a short period are often promoted, individual results can vary, and consistency is key for any natural remedy.
Safety Notes
- Patch test first: Always perform a patch test on a small area of your scalp 24 hours before full application to check for any allergic reactions or irritation.
- Use gently: Apply and massage the oil gently. Avoid vigorous rubbing, which can damage hair or irritate the scalp.
- Avoid irritated or broken skin: Do not apply the oil to areas of the scalp with cuts, sores, or any irritation.
- Stop using if discomfort occurs: If you experience any burning, itching, redness, or discomfort, rinse the oil off immediately and discontinue use.
- Strong smell: Onion has a distinct smell that can linger. Ensure thorough rinsing and consider adding a few drops of essential oil (like rosemary or lavender, if no sensitivities) during the infusion process for a more pleasant scent, though this is optional.
- Consult a professional: If you are experiencing significant hair loss or have underlying scalp conditions, consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional. This DIY remedy is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment.
FAQ
Does this oil really make hair grow faster?
This oil is traditionally used to nourish the scalp and hair, which may support a healthy environment for hair growth. While many users report positive experiences, individual results vary, and it’s not a guaranteed solution for rapid hair growth.
How long can I store this homemade hair oil?
Store the oil in a clean, airtight glass bottle in a cool, dark place. Due to the natural ingredients, it’s best to use it within 2-4 weeks to ensure freshness and potency. Discard if you notice any changes in smell or appearance.
Will the onion smell stay in my hair?
Onion has a strong scent. While thorough shampooing should remove most of it, a faint odor might linger, especially if your hair is damp. Using a fragrant shampoo or a hair rinse with apple cider vinegar can help minimize the smell.
Final Thoughts
Embracing natural beauty remedies can be a rewarding journey for supporting your hair’s appearance. This DIY onion and clove hair oil offers a simple, accessible way to incorporate traditional ingredients into your routine for a healthier-looking scalp and potentially fuller-looking hair. Give it a try and see how these natural ingredients work for you!
