The distinctive properties of eugenol have made cloves interesting to researchers and manufacturers.
Clove oil has demonstrated antimicrobial activity in laboratory studies, which is one reason clove-derived ingredients appear in some oral-care and personal-care products.
However, laboratory activity does not automatically mean that applying homemade clove oil to the skin will cure an infection or medical condition.
That distinction is important when evaluating online home remedies.
How to Make a Simple Clove-Infused Oil
If you want a mild clove-flavored or aromatic oil for culinary purposes, you can make an infused oil rather than trying to produce concentrated essential oil at home.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons whole cloves
- ½ cup food-grade olive oil or another suitable culinary oil
- A clean, dry glass jar
- Fine strainer
Step 1: Prepare the Cloves
Use whole, dry cloves.
You can lightly crush them with the back of a spoon to help release their aroma.
Step 2: Add the Oil
Place the cloves into a clean, dry jar and cover them completely with the oil.
Make sure the cloves remain submerged.
Step 3: Infuse
Seal the jar and allow it to infuse in a cool, dark place.
Shake the jar gently once a day.
After several days, the oil should have developed a noticeable clove aroma.
Step 4: Strain
Pour the mixture through a fine strainer or clean cheesecloth to remove the cloves.
Transfer the strained oil to a clean container and label it with the preparation date.
For homemade infused oils, good hygiene and proper storage are important because contamination can cause spoilage.
What About Applying Clove Oil to the Skin?
See more on the next page