Losing hair or noticing thinning spots can feel incredibly frustrating and even affect your confidence every time you look in the mirror. Those bald or sparse patches seem to appear overnight, and no matter how many expensive products you try, the results often fall short of expectations. What if two common kitchen ingredients you already have at home could offer a gentle, natural way to support hair fullness that people have been quietly using for generations?
Keep reading — because toward the end of this article, I’ll share the exact 14-day ritual that surprised even long-time natural beauty enthusiasts with visible changes.

Why Onion and Clove Keep Popping Up in Hair-Care Conversations
Both onion and clove have been part of traditional hair-care practices in many cultures for centuries. Modern interest spiked when small studies and user experiences started highlighting their rich content of sulfur compounds, antioxidants, and natural oils that nourish the scalp environment.
Research published in the Journal of Dermatology (2002) showed that crude onion juice applied to the scalp twice daily supported hair regrowth in participants with patchy hair loss. Another study in Phytotherapy Research noted that clove oil contains eugenol, a compound with strong antioxidant properties that may help maintain a healthy scalp.
Of course, everyone’s results vary, but the low cost and easy availability make this combination worth exploring for anyone looking for natural options.
What Makes Onion and Clove Interesting for Hair Support?
Here’s a quick look at the key compounds people talk about:
- Onion
- High in sulfur — an essential mineral for keratin production
- Contains quercetin, a natural antioxidant
- Provides mild exfoliating properties when used topically
- Clove
- Rich in eugenol (antioxidant and soothing)
- Natural warming effect that increases local circulation
- Traditionally used to strengthen hair roots in Ayurvedic routines
Combining them seems to create a simple yet potent scalp tonic that many report leaves hair feeling stronger and looking fuller over time.

The Exact 14-Day Onion & Clove Ritual People Are Trying
This method takes less than 10 minutes to prepare and uses ingredients you can find in any grocery store.
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Take 2 medium red onions and 15–20 whole cloves.
- Peel and roughly chop the onions.
- Place onions and cloves in a clean glass jar.
- Pour 200–250 ml of warm (not boiling) coconut oil or extra-virgin olive oil over the mixture.
- Let it sit in a dark, cool place for 7–10 days (shake daily). Some people gently warm it for 2–3 days instead for faster extraction.
- After infusion, strain the oil carefully. Your tonic is ready.
How to Apply It (Night Routine)
- Part your hair and gently massage 1–2 teaspoons of the infused oil directly onto clean scalp, focusing on thinning areas.
- Use circular motions for 3–5 minutes — this feels relaxing and helps absorption.
- Leave it on overnight (wear an old cap or towel if needed).
- Wash out in the morning with a gentle shampoo.
- Repeat every other night for at least 14 days (many continue 3–4 times per week afterward).
Pro tip: The onion smell fades significantly once the oil is strained and washed out the next day.
Safety Tips and Things to Keep in Mind
- Always do a patch test on your inner arm 24 hours before first use.
- If you feel burning or redness, rinse immediately and discontinue.
- Avoid getting the mixture in your eyes.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult their doctor before trying new topical remedies.
- This is a traditional home ritual, not a medical treatment.
What Most People Notice After 14–30 Days
While individual experiences differ, common feedback includes:
- Baby hairs appearing along the hairline and thinning spots
- Reduced daily hair fall when brushing or washing
- Scalp feels less dry and flaky
- Existing hair looks shinier and feels thicker to the touch
Remember — consistency matters more than intensity.

Other Natural Habits That Work Well Alongside This Ritual
To give your hair the best possible environment, try combining the oil with these simple habits:
- Gentle scalp massage 2–3 times per week (even without oil)
- Eating protein-rich meals (eggs, lentils, fish, nuts)
- Staying hydrated — hair is 25 % water
- Reducing heat styling and tight hairstyles
- Getting enough sleep (hair grows mostly at night)
Final Thoughts
Onion and clove oil is one of those old-yet-new natural approaches that costs almost nothing to try and has a surprisingly long track record in traditional beauty routines. Thousands of people worldwide are quietly adding this simple ritual to their weekly schedule — and many are pleasantly surprised by how their hair feels after a couple of weeks.
If you’ve been looking for a gentle, affordable way to support healthier-looking hair without harsh chemicals, this might be worth adding to your routine.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition. Results vary between individuals. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional or dermatologist before trying new hair or scalp remedies, especially if you have sensitive skin or underlying health concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does the onion smell stay in hair after washing?
Most people report the smell is barely noticeable after a regular shampoo, especially when the oil is well-strained.
2. Can I use this onion-clove oil every day?
Every other day or 3–4 times per week is usually enough. Daily use may be too much for sensitive scalps.
3. Is this safe for color-treated hair?
Generally yes, because it’s applied to the scalp and rinsed out, but always do a strand test first if you’re concerned.
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