Hair thinning and slow growth can feel relentless after 30, as hormones shift, stress builds, and follicles receive less nourishment—leaving strands brittle, shedding excessive, and progress frustratingly slow. Many notice wider parts, more hair in the brush or drain, and a loss of that youthful volume that once boosted confidence daily. The emotional toll adds up: avoiding mirrors, hesitating with certain styles, or feeling less vibrant overall. Yet emerging interest in natural kitchen staples like cloves and cinnamon offers a gentle, supportive approach worth exploring for scalp health and hair vitality.
What if two everyday spices could help address some of these root concerns through better circulation and soothing properties? Keep reading—the simple rinse recipe and science-backed insights ahead might surprise you.

The Frustrating Reality of Hair Changes After 30
As we enter our 30s and beyond, hair often undergoes subtle but noticeable shifts. Average growth sits at about half an inch per month, but factors like reduced blood flow, mild inflammation, or buildup can slow it further or increase fallout.
Surveys and health data indicate that a significant portion of adults face these issues. By age 35, around two-thirds of men experience some degree of noticeable hair loss, while by age 50, up to 85% of men show thinning. For women, about 40% report changes by age 50, often linked to hormonal fluctuations or stress.
These aren’t just cosmetic—many describe the cycle: slower growth leads to more tension from styling, which causes breakage, feeding back into even less progress. You’ve probably tried supplements, serums, or treatments with mixed results. The appeal of cloves and cinnamon lies in their potential to support scalp wellness directly from your kitchen.
But that’s not the full picture…

Why Cloves and Cinnamon Might Support Healthier Hair
Cloves stand out thanks to eugenol, their primary compound. Research highlights eugenol’s antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, which may help create a cleaner, calmer scalp environment. Some animal studies suggest topical clove preparations can enhance follicle nourishment and repair, possibly by improving circulation and reducing oxidative stress that affects hair cycles.
Human evidence remains emerging and indirect, but cloves’ ability to combat free radicals and soothe irritation shows promise for overall scalp support.
Cinnamon brings cinnamaldehyde into the mix, a compound linked to vessel dilation and improved blood flow. A 2018 animal study found cinnamon oil supported hair length and follicle size comparably to 2% minoxidil in rats, likely due to enhanced circulation delivering more oxygen and nutrients to roots. Related lab work on cinnamic compounds has shown potential to encourage follicle activity.
Here’s the exciting part: combining them in a rinse may amplify these supportive effects—antimicrobial cleansing from cloves, circulation boost from cinnamon, plus added moisture and shine for less breakage.
Of course, no studies claim dramatic miracles or guaranteed speed doublings. Benefits appear supportive rather than curative, varying by individual factors like genetics, diet, and routine. Still, anecdotal reports from users often highlight shinier, stronger-feeling hair over weeks of consistent use.

Real Talk: What People Are Experiencing
While personal stories aren’t scientific proof, they offer relatable glimpses. Many in their 30s and 40s report reduced shedding after incorporating spice rinses 2–3 times weekly, with baby hairs appearing along hairlines in 4–8 weeks.
Others note fuller-looking density, especially when paired with gentle scalp massage. These align with the idea that better scalp conditions can encourage healthier growth phases.
Imagine the shift: running your fingers through noticeably resilient strands, feeling more confident in photos or updos. That small daily win can ripple into bigger mood boosts.

Step-by-Step: How to Make and Use Cloves-Cinnamon Hair Tea
This easy, low-cost rinse draws from popular wellness practices. Always patch test first on your inner arm to check for sensitivity.
Ingredients (for one batch):
- 1–2 tablespoons whole cloves (or ground)
- 1–2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (or 1–2 cinnamon sticks)
- 1.5–2 cups hot water
Preparation:
- Place cloves and cinnamon in a heat-safe jar or pot.
- Pour hot (not boiling) water over them and stir.
- Cover and let infuse for 8–48 hours (24+ hours for stronger potency).
- Strain well—use a fine mesh or cheesecloth to remove all particles.
Application Tips:
- Pour into a spray bottle.
- After shampooing (on damp hair) or on dry hair, spritz generously onto scalp and lengths.
- Massage gently for 5–10 minutes to encourage circulation.
- Leave in as a treatment or rinse after 30–60 minutes.
- Use 3–4 times per week.
Pro tip: Follow with a light carrier oil like coconut or olive on ends to seal in moisture—many find this reduces breakage and adds gloss.
Consistency beats perfection here. Track progress with photos every 4 weeks under similar lighting.
Key Potential Benefits at a Glance
Cloves and cinnamon may offer layered support for hair concerns:
- Improved circulation — Potentially better nutrient delivery to follicles.
- Antimicrobial action — Helps maintain a cleaner scalp, possibly reducing itch or buildup.
- Anti-inflammatory effects — Soothes mild irritation that can hinder growth.
- Antioxidant protection — May combat stress on strands for added resilience.
- Moisture and shine — User reports often mention softer, glossier hair.
Here’s a quick comparison table:
| Hair Concern | How Cloves + Cinnamon May Help | Evidence Level |
|---|---|---|
| Thinning/Shedding | Supports follicle nourishment via circulation | Animal + anecdotal |
| Slow Growth | Enhanced blood flow to roots | Lab/animal supportive |
| Breakage | Stronger strands through antioxidants | Indirect |
| Itchy/Dull Scalp | Antimicrobial and soothing properties | Promising |
| Dryness | Potential moisture boost when sealed | User reports |
These are supportive possibilities, not guarantees.
Advanced Tips for Better Results
To maximize potential:
- Combine with a nutrient-rich diet (think proteins from eggs, nuts, and fish).
- Incorporate daily scalp massages even without the rinse.
- Avoid tight styles that pull on roots.
- Stay patient—visible shifts often emerge in 4–12 weeks.
- Consider adding complementary herbs like rosemary if tolerated.
The true game-changer? Pairing this with holistic habits: manage stress, prioritize sleep, and use gentle products.
Wrapping It Up: Your Next Step
Cloves and cinnamon won’t rewrite genetics overnight, but their circulation-boosting, soothing profile makes them a compelling addition to a natural hair care routine. Many find the ritual calming and empowering—simple ingredients yielding noticeable vitality.
Ready to brew your first batch? Start small, stay consistent, and observe how your hair responds.
FAQ
How long until I might see changes from a cloves-cinnamon rinse?
Most user experiences suggest 4–12 weeks of regular use for reduced shedding or improved shine, though individual results vary based on starting condition and habits.
Is this safe for all hair types?
Generally yes for most, but patch test first. Those with sensitive scalps or allergies to spices should consult a professional before trying.
Can I use cloves and cinnamon daily?
3–4 times weekly is common to avoid over-drying; daily might be too much for some. Listen to your scalp and adjust.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new remedy, especially if you have scalp conditions, allergies, or ongoing hair loss concerns.
