Making homemade clove oil using the cold-infusion method is a simple, hands-off process that requires very little prep. Whole cloves are combined with a carrier oil and left to infuse slowly over time. To get started, you only need whole cloves, a carrier oil, and a clean jar.
I love making herbal oils as part of my wellness routine, and honestly, this is one of the easiest DIY remedies you will ever try! No cooking is required, and no fancy or expensive equipment is needed. You just combine the ingredients in a container and let nature take care of the rest. The resulting oil is fragrant, warming, and versatile. Trust me, you’ll soon be including it in your self-care practices, too!
What’s Clove Oil?
It’s an essential oil that comes from the dried flower buds of the clove (Syzygium aromaticum) tree. This fragrant plant originated in Indonesia and primarily grows in tropical regions.
Due to its natural fragrance and beneficial properties, clove oil has numerous applications in cooking, herbal medicine, oral care, and aromatherapy. This natural remedy can be used for:
- Easing toothache pain
- Warmth, comfort, and focus in aromatherapy
- Cleaning around the house to prevent mold growth
- Helping with acne
- Nourishing the hair and scalp
- Cooking (can be added to curry bases, sauces, or marinades)
Materials Needed
Whole Cloves: The primary ingredient you need to make this clove oil recipe. They contain eugenol, a naturally occurring compound that gives this oil its signature warming effect and natural anesthetic properties.
Carrier Oil: Acts as the base that extracts, dilutes, and preserves the natural properties of the whole clove. You can use olive oil, jojoba oil, coconut oil, or sweet almond oil for this recipe.
How To Make Clove Oil
1. CRUSH
Lightly crush the cloves using a mortar and pestle or the back of a spoon.
2. TRANSFER
Transfer the cloves to a clean, dry glass jar.
3. ADD OIL
Pour in your carrier oil until the cloves are completely covered, then stir briefly with a clean spoon. Seal the jar and store it in a warm, dark spot for 7 to 10 days, giving it a gentle shake once a day.
4. STRAIN
When ready, strain the oil through cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer, then transfer it to a small amber bottle for storage.
5. USE
Enjoy!
How To Use Clove Oil
- For a tooth ache: Dab a small amount onto a cotton swab or cotton ball and apply it to the gums near the affected area.
- As a massage oil: Rub into sore shoulders, achy joints, or the belly to relieve cramping and/or bloating.
- For aromatherapy: Add a few drops of clove oil to your washcloth and place it in the corner of your shower. The steam from your shower will help release the scent and open up your sinuses.
- To ease any itch, pain, or inflammation, rub it directly on your skin.
Kristen's Top Tips
- Use whole cloves instead of ground or powdered versions since they are easier to remove with a strainer, and more potent when freshly crushed.
- Use high-quality carrier oils to help preserve your infusion for a longer period.
- The finer the strainer used, the cleaner and smoother the oil.
- Don’t forget to use a clean, sterilized bottle to avoid contaminating the clove oil.
- Crushing the cloves helps release more eugenol into the oil, which speeds up the infusion process.
- Shake the bottle every few days to prevent any settling and redistribute the clove compounds in the oil.
- Always do a patch test before using to check for allergic reactions or side effects, especially if you have sensitive skin or underlying conditions.
Storage
Place the glass bottle in a cool, dry place, free from sunlight and high temperatures, such as a pantry or cupboard. Any heat may degrade the quality of your clove oil. Keep it out of reach of children.
When stored properly, your home remedy can last for a few months. However, discard it immediately if you detect any musty, sour, or rancid smell, or if you experience skin irritation or an allergic reaction while using the oil.
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Clove Oil
Equipment
- Clean glass jar with lid
- Cheesecloth or fine strainer
- Jar or bottle (for storage)
Materials
- 1/4 cup whole cloves
- 1/2 cup carrier oil like olive oil, jojoba oil, or almond oil
Instructions
- Slightly crush the cloves using a mortar and pestle or the back of a spoon to help release their natural oils.
- Place the crushed cloves into a clean, dry glass jar.
- Add your chosen carrier oil until the cloves are fully submerged. Stir gently with a clean spoon.
- Seal the jar tightly and store it in a warm, dark place for 7 to 10 days. Shake the jar once daily to keep the cloves moving and encourage infusion.
- After 7 to 10 days, strain the oil through cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer into a clean bowl. Pour the finished oil into a small amber bottle to protect it from light and extend its shelf life.
- Store, use, and enjoy!
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