I Tried My Grandmother’s Clove-Infused Oil — Here’s What Happened
Discover the surprising benefits of homemade clove-infused oil. From softer skin to eased joint pain, learn how this old-fashioned remedy works.
My grandmother had a remedy for everything. She called it her “everything fix”: cloves soaked in baby oil. I always thought it was just old-fashioned superstition. But curiosity got the best of me, and I decided to try it myself.
I didn’t expect much. A week later, I noticed changes that surprised me — and convinced me that some old remedies really do work.
How I Made the Clove Oil
Ingredients:
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Whole cloves (about 2 tablespoons)
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Baby oil (1 cup)
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A small glass jar with lid
Instructions:
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Add cloves to the jar.
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Pour baby oil over the cloves until fully submerged.
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Seal the jar and let it sit for 7–10 days in a cool, dark place.
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Shake gently once a day to mix the infusion.
After a week, the oil took on a warm, aromatic scent — a perfect mix of spicy and soothing.
What Happened After a Week
1. Softer Skin
Applying the oil after my shower made my skin feel silky and hydrated. Even my dry patches smoothed out.
2. Scalp Relief
I had a mildly itchy scalp that shampoo alone didn’t fix. Massaging a few drops of the clove oil worked wonders — the itch disappeared, and my hair felt nourished.
3. Joint Ease
My knees often ached after long walks. After massaging clove oil onto them, the soreness reduced noticeably within a few days.
4. My Husband’s Back Pain
When my husband borrowed some for his back pain and asked for his own bottle, I realized this simple remedy could be shared, not just personal.
Why It Works
Cloves are rich in eugenol, a natural compound with:
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Anti-inflammatory properties
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Antioxidant effects
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Mild analgesic (pain-relieving) benefits
Baby oil acts as a carrier, allowing the cloves’ compounds to gently penetrate the skin while moisturizing it.
This combination makes it suitable for:
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Skin hydration
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Muscle and joint massage
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Scalp and hair care
How to Use Clove-Infused Oil
For Skin:
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Apply a few drops to dry patches or all over for a gentle moisturizer.
For Hair and Scalp:
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Massage into the scalp 2–3 times a week to relieve dryness or itch.
For Joint or Muscle Pain:
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Rub onto sore areas for a soothing effect.
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Can be combined with gentle massage for better circulation.
Tip: Always do a patch test first to avoid skin irritation.
Real-Life Scenario
A friend of mine in New York struggled with stiff fingers due to mild arthritis. After using clove-infused oil nightly for two weeks, she reported:
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Reduced stiffness in the mornings
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Less discomfort when typing or cooking
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Softer, healthier-looking hands
Precautions
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Avoid applying to broken skin.
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Test a small area first if you have sensitive skin.
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Keep away from eyes.
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Consult a doctor if you are on blood-thinning medications, as cloves can have mild anticoagulant effects.
Extra Tips for Maximum Benefits
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Store in a dark, cool place to preserve potency.
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Shake the jar before each use to mix the infusion.
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Combine with a gentle carrier oil like coconut or almond oil for different textures or scents.
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Use consistently — benefits accumulate over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does clove oil last?
Stored properly, it can last 6–12 months.
2. Can children use it?
Small amounts are generally safe, but avoid infants and always do a patch test.
3. Will it stain clothing?
It’s lightly colored — use sparingly to avoid oil stains.
4. Can it help headaches?
Massaging a few drops on the temples can provide mild relief, thanks to eugenol’s soothing properties.
5. Can I make a larger batch?
Yes — just maintain the 1:2 tablespoons of cloves per 1 cup oil ratio.
Action Checklist
✔ Make your own clove-infused oil using cloves and baby oil
✔ Apply to dry skin or sore muscles for relief
✔ Massage gently into scalp to reduce itch
✔ Store in a cool, dark place and shake daily
✔ Patch test before regular use
Sometimes the simplest remedies are the most effective. Clove-infused oil is more than an old grandmother’s trick — it’s a versatile, natural solution for skin, scalp, and joint care.
From softer skin to eased aches, this small jar of oil proved that a little patience and natural ingredients can go a long way.
Have you tried homemade clove oil? Share your experience or tips in the comments — your story might inspire someone to discover their own “everything fix.”