The combination of Bay Leaves and Cloves is a trending, two-ingredient natural solution for hair care, often used as a potent rinse or oil infusion.1 While claims of “full regrowth in just 30 days” are hype and lack specific scientific timelines, these spices are packed with compounds that create an ideal environment for stronger, healthier hair and may stimulate dormant follicles.
This duo works primarily by improving scalp health and circulation, which are the critical foundations for natural hair growth.2
The Power Behind the Ingredients
| Ingredient | Key Compounds | Benefit for Hair Growth |
| Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum) | Eugenol, Vitamin K | Circulation & Stimulation: Eugenol is a powerful anti-inflammatory and stimulant that may enhance blood flow to the hair follicles, delivering vital nutrients. Vitamin K aids in blood circulation. |
| Bay Leaves (Laurus nobilis) | Flavonoids, Essential Oils, Antioxidants | Scalp Cleansing & Conditioning: Contains natural antiseptic and antifungal properties that help eliminate dandruff, soothe an itchy scalp, and regulate excess oil production. |
DIY Recipe: Bay Leaf & Clove Hair Rinse
This is the most common and effective way to use the two ingredients together.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Filtered Water
- 2 tablespoons Whole Cloves3
- 5–7 Dried Bay Leaves
Instructions
- Boil the Spices: In a saucepan, bring the 2 cups of filtered water to a boil.4
- Simmer: Add the whole cloves and bay leaves. Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the beneficial oils and compounds to infuse into the water.
- Steep and Cool: Remove the pan from the heat and cover it. Allow the rinse to steep and cool completely (to room temperature). The mixture will deepen in color.
- Strain and Store: Strain the liquid to remove all the cloves and bay leaves. Pour the finished tonic into a clean spray bottle or airtight jar.
- Usage: Store the rinse in the refrigerator for up to one week.5
How to Use the Rinse for Hair Growth
Apply this rinse regularly to maximize its effects on the scalp and hair:
- Final Rinse (Best Method): After you have shampooed and conditioned your hair, use the cooled rinse as the final step. Slowly pour or spray the liquid over your entire scalp and hair.
- Scalp Massage: Gently massage your scalp for 1–2 minutes to ensure the liquid is absorbed and to stimulate blood flow.
- Leave-In: Do not rinse the tonic out with clean water. Simply towel-dry and style your hair as usual. The light, pleasant aroma of the spices will fade quickly.
Key Benefits for Natural Hair Growth
- Scalp Detox: The antifungal and antiseptic nature of both ingredients helps eliminate common scalp issues like dandruff and itchiness, creating a clean, healthy base where hair can grow unhindered.
- Follicle Stimulation: The eugenol in cloves may act as a mild irritant that increases localized blood circulation, theoretically encouraging dormant hair follicles to enter the active (anagen) growth phase.6
- Reduced Breakage: By nourishing the hair shaft with antioxidants, the rinse helps strengthen the hair, preventing the breakage that leads to the appearance of thinning hair.
Reminder: For hair regrowth, consistency is essential. Use this treatment 1-2 times per week, and remember that real hair growth takes time—visible improvement may be noticeable after several weeks to a few months, not just 30 days.
