Clove essential oil has been valued for centuries for its warm, spicy scent and many uses in food, soaps, skincare, and traditional medicine. Scientifically called Syzygium aromaticum, it’s made from the dried, unopened flower buds of a tropical evergreen tree in the Myrtaceae family.
The oil’s rich, spicy, and slightly sweet aroma makes it a preferred pick for artisan soaps and home blends. It also has a complex mix of compounds that gives it antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory benefits, which modern science has studied.
Let’s get into clove buds’ uses, types, benefits, and safe practices.
Disclaimer: I am not a trained essential oil professional or researcher. The information in this article has been painstakingly pulled together from research I have read to better inform myself on how to use clove bud oil effectively in soap bars. I have listed links to this research at the end of this article for your own research.
My Experience Making Soap With Clove Bud Essential Oil
I really enjoy adding clove bud essential oil to my handmade soaps. Its warm, spicy, and pleasant scent fills the room as I mix the oils, making the entire process feel homely and friendly.
Besides the lovely fragrance, clove bud essential oil adds a natural richness to the soap, blending well with other essential and carrier oils to create a luxurious, skin-friendly bar.
Working with this strong essential oil reminds me to be careful and attentive, since its aromatic appeal comes with powerful benefits, such as antimicrobial effects and soothing skin properties—benefits that modern research has consistently validated.
Using clove bud essential oil in my soaps is about more than just the aroma; it’s about creating a product that pleases the senses, supports skin health, and accentuates the natural strength of essential oils, which are supported both by tradition and scientific study.
If you want to try these wonderful clove soap bars out, type “clove” in the website’s search bar in the top right-hand corner, or snag them from the list of bars below:
- Traditional Castile Cinnamon Clove
- Traditional Castile Cinnamon Clove Oat
- Traditional Castile Orange Clove
- Orange Clove Anise Charcoal
- Anise Orange Clove Pine Tar
Where Does Clove Come From?
Syzygium aromaticum comes from the Maluku (Spice) Islands of Indonesia and grows as a bushy evergreen tree in humid tropical areas. It can grow 8 to 20 meters tall and produces clusters of aromatic, reddish flower buds.
These buds are picked before they open, dried, and then used whole as a spice or distilled to get essential oil. Today, cloves are grown in many tropical places like Indonesia, Madagascar, Zanzibar (Tanzania), Sri Lanka, and parts of India and Brazil, where the climate suits the tree’s long growing cycle (Plants of the World, 2025).
Types of Clove and Chemotypes
Botanically, clove is one species; however, growers and researchers identify varieties (cultivars) and chemotypes that differ in bud size, aroma, and oil yield. These differences stem from geography and the way the plants are grown.
This includes regional varieties traditionally grown in Indonesia and other tropical areas. Changes in essential oil makeup—especially amounts of eugenol, eugenyl acetate, and β-caryophyllene—create slightly different profiles that are useful in cooking, medicine, and cosmetics (HerbaZest).
| Variety / Local Type | Primary Region of Cultivation | Characteristics (Cultivation & Oil) | Common Uses |
| Zanzibar | Zanzibar (Tanzania) & Indonesia | High phenolic and essential oil content; aromatic buds | Culinary spice, essential oil, aromatherapy |
| Siputih | Indonesia (Maluku Islands) | Large buds; strong aroma; high eugenol | Spice, essential oil, aromatherapy |
| Sikotok | Indonesia (Maluku Islands) | Distinct phytochemical profile; antimicrobial | Spice, essential oil |
| Afo | North Maluku (Indonesia) | Cultivated local variety | Spice production |
| Red/White Zanzibar | North Maluku & Zanzibar | Distinct morphology; aromatic | Spice, local medicinal uses |
| Wild / Forest Cloves | Maluku Islands | Natural types; variable traits | Traditional use; genetic diversity |
Chemotypes are classified based on dominant chemical compounds in the oil:
- Eugenol-rich type – most common, standard clove oil
- Eugenyl acetate type – slightly sweeter aroma, found in some bud oils
- Mixed type – contains both eugenol and β-caryophyllene
Although scientific studies on modern cultivar genetics have been limited since 2022, research on chemotypes indicates that most clove oils are rich in eugenol, the substance responsible for much of the oil’s scent and biological effects.
Although clove essential oil is classified by the part of the plant used for extraction rather than by plant variety, chemical analysis shows that eugenol accounts for about 80 percent of the oil (Haro-Gonzalez, 2021).
| Clove Bud Oil | Flower buds | High eugenol; balanced profile | Aromatherapy, soap fragrance, skincare |
| Leaf Oil | Leaves | Very high eugenol; sharper aroma | Industrial fragrance, cleaning products |
| Stem Oil | Flower stalks/stems | High eugenol; less complex aroma | Pharmaceutical research, industrial blends |
Each oil type keeps a spicy aroma but varies in subtle ways. Bud oil is usually preferred for cosmetics and aromatherapy because of its smoother, richer scent. Leaf and stem oils tend to be stronger and less often used in personal care products (Haro-González JN, 2021).
Note: I prefer the clove bud essential oil for my soaps. It has a richer, more pleasing aroma and is the most beneficial for topical applications with fewer complications. The leaf and stem oils can be too harsh for direct topical applications.
How Is Clove Bud Essential Oil Made?
Clove bud essential oil is extracted by steam or hydrodistillation. In this process, dried clove buds are heated with steam, causing the aromatic compounds to evaporate and then condense into a concentrated oil.
Modern methods, such as supercritical CO₂ extraction, can help preserve heat-sensitive parts. The oil is rich in eugenol, with considerable amounts of eugenyl acetate, β-caryophyllene, and α-humulene, which add to its scent and effects (Haro-Gonzalez JN, 2021).
What Is Clove Bud Essential Oil’s Chemical Composition?
Clove bud essential oil’s biological effects come mostly from its high phenolic content, especially eugenol, which can make up a large part of the oil. GC-MS tests consistently show that clove bud essential oil contains a complex mixture of volatile compounds, with eugenol usually accounting for 50 to 90% of the oil.
These components give the oil antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory benefits (Ahamad, 2023).
Research shows that clove bud essential oil possesses strong antimicrobial activity against both Gram‑positive and Gram‑negative bacteria, inhibits oxidation in laboratory assays, and has antioxidant capacity comparable to that of standard compounds such as ascorbic acid (Thongmee, 2025). How neat is that?
What Is Clove Bud Essential Oil Used For?
Clove bud essential oil has several uses, but most people use it for aromatherapy, soapmaking, cleaners, or skincare.
Here are the specific uses:
Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Benefits
Recent peer-reviewed studies show that clove bud essential oil has strong antibacterial and antioxidant effects thanks to eugenol and other compounds.
One comparison showed that clove bud essential oil has powerful antimicrobial activity even at levels far below toxic doses, supporting its use in topical antimicrobial products when properly diluted.
These qualities make clove bud essential oil a useful ingredient in products designed to cleanse or protect the skin from microbes, though its medical uses call for careful formulation and safety checks (Acharawan Thongmee, 2025).
This is primarily why I included clove bud essential oil in my signature Essential 7 blend. Read more about it in The Power of Cadron Creek’s Essential 7 Blend.
Anti‑Inflammatory and Skin Benefits
Preclinical studies suggest that clove bud essential oil’s components may reduce inflammation, which helps calm irritated skin.
New delivery methods, such as nanoemulsions—tiny droplets that help ingredients spread and absorb better—are being tested to improve clove oil’s potency in topical creams for inflammatory skin conditions.
How Can I Use Clove Bud Essential Oil Safely?
Even natural, active oils like clove bud essential oil can be risky if used incorrectly. Because it has a strong concentration of eugenol and phenolics, clove bud essential oil should always be diluted before applying to the skin to prevent irritation or sensitivity.
- Skin irritation or dermatitis: Topical use of undiluted clove bud essential oil can irritate skin and mucous membranes.
- Sensitivity and allergic reactions: People with sensitive skin or contact allergies may react to clove bud essential oil.
- Oral and mucosal irritation: Concentrated use in the mouth can irritate gums or mucosa.
- Toxicity at high doses: Excessive ingestion can cause systemic effects, especially in children or people with liver conditions.
Toxicology (the study of the adverse effects of chemicals) indicates that phenolic compounds such as eugenol can be toxic at high concentrations in laboratory tests. This highlights why dilution and expert advice are important when making products (Prashar A, 2006).
Who Should Be Wary of Clove Bud Essential Oil?
See here, natural products are powerful and need to be used properly. Some people just need to avoid all cloves and clove essential oil altogether. It is better to be safe than sorry, so when in doubt…don’t.
Below is a simple, evidence‑informed chart indicating groups who should avoid or use clove essential oil cautiously:
| Children (especially infants) | Higher sensitivity to eugenol and toxicity risk |
| Pregnant/Breastfeeding individuals | Limited clinical safety data for systemic exposure |
| Those with liver disease | Eugenol metabolized in liver; risk of stress |
| Those suffering bleeding disorders or using blood thinners | Phenolics may have mild antiplatelet effects |
| Those with oral or mucosal sensitivities | Risk of irritation |
| Individuals with spice allergy | Potential dermatitis or allergic reaction |
| Those about to undergo surgery | Caution due to possible blood‑thinning effects |
Safe Use and Dilution Guidelines
Because clove bud essential oil contains high levels of eugenol, proper dilution is essential. When using clove essential oil in soaps, cosmetics, or topical blends:
- Always dilute: Use a suitable carrier oil, such as jojoba, coconut, or sweet almond oil.
- Patch test: Test on a small area before wider application to test for sensitivity.
- Use low amounts: In soaps and topical blends, clove bud essential oil is usually added in small amounts to get the fragrance and benefits without causing skin irritation.
- Avoid using high concentrations on sensitive areas such as the face or mucous membranes.
- Do not use it on children, pregnant women, or those with sensitive skin.
- NEVER ingest essential oils unless under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.
| Use / Application | Recommended Dilution | Drops of Clove Oil per 1 Tablespoon (15 ml) Carrier Oil |
| Sensitive skin or facial products | 0.25% | 1 drop in 2 tablespoons of carrier oil |
| General skincare | 0.5% | 1 drop |
| Massage oils | 0.5–1% | 1–2 drops |
| Spot treatment blends | 1% | 2–3 drops |
| Aromatherapy blends (diffuser) | 1–2 drops per 100 ml of water | Not diluted in carrier oil, for aromatherapy uses only, do not drink |
Which Carrier Oils Work Well with Clove Bud Essential Oil?
Clove bud essential oil blends well with mild carrier oils that help reduce irritation. These oils help dilute the phenolic compounds in clove oil while preserving its aroma and beneficial properties.
- Jojoba oil
- Sweet almond oil
- Fractionated coconut oil
- Olive oil
- Apricot kernel oil
| Carrier Oil | Best Uses | Skin Type | Absorption / Skin Feel | Why It Works Well with Clove Oil |
| Jojoba Oil | Facial oils, acne care, sensitive skin blends | Sensitive, combination, acne-prone | Light, smooth, non-greasy | Closely resembles natural skin oils, helping balance sebum. Very stable with a long shelf life. |
| Sweet Almond Oil | Massage oils, body oils, and everyday skincare | Normal to dry skin | Medium weight, smooth glide | Rich in fatty acids and vitamin E, it spreads easily across the skin, making it ideal for massage blends. |
| Fractionated Coconut Oil | Aromatherapy blends, roll-on oils, and diluted essential oil bottles | Most skin types | Very light, fast absorbing | Odorless and highly stable while providing long shelf life. |
| Olive Oil | Herbal preparations, body oils, and traditional remedies | Very dry or mature skin | Rich and moisturizing | Contains antioxidants and fatty acids that support skin hydration and barrier protection. |
| Apricot Kernel Oil | Facial oils, sensitive skin care, light body oils | Sensitive or mature skin | Light, silky texture | Mild, gentle oil that absorbs easily and blends smoothly without overpowering its scent. |
| Grapeseed Oil | Lightweight massage oils, acne-prone skin blends | Oily or acne-prone | Very light, quick absorbing | Contains linoleic acid and creates a light, non-greasy blend that helps prevent mixtures from feeling heavy. |
In a Nutshell
Using clove bud essential oil in my soaps is a true joy — the warm, spicy aroma fills the air with a comforting richness that instantly feels inviting. Beyond the fragrance, I love knowing that this oil offers real benefits through its gentle antimicrobial activity and antioxidant support for the skin.
By incorporating clove essential oil into soaps, scrubs, and skincare blends, we can create products that are not only aromatic but thoughtfully crafted for wellness. I also appreciate how versatile clove oil is — it pairs beautifully with other essential oils like orange, anise, vanilla, or cinnamon, creating layers of scent that delight the senses.
Knowing the science behind its properties gives me confidence that my soaps are not just fragrant but also supportive of healthy skin. Using clove oil reminds me that even small, natural ingredients can bring both joy and functional benefits to daily routines.
Peer‑Reviewed References
- Thongmee, A., Wanakhachornkrai, O., Chongsa, W., & Sukplang, P. (2025). Comparative evaluation of the antimicrobial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic properties of essential oils from vetiver, lemongrass, and clove buds. PLOS ONE. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0335018
- Haro‑González, J. N. (2021). Clove essential oil: Chemical profile and biological activities, anesthetic applications, and eugenol effects. Clove Essential Oil (Syzygium aromaticum L. Myrtaceae): Extraction, Chemical Composition, Food Applications, and Essential Bioactivity for Human Health
- Javed Ahamad. (2023). Characterization of Essential Oil Composition of Syzygium aromaticum Linn. (Clove) by GC-MS and Evaluation of its Antioxidant Activity, Journal of Angiotherapy, 7(1), 1-5 EMAN RESEARCH PUBLISHING |Full Text|Characterization of Essential Oil Composition of Syzygium aromaticum Linn. (Clove) by GC-MS and Evaluation of its Antioxidant Activity
- Prashar A, Locke IC, Evans CS. Cytotoxicity of clove (Syzygium aromaticum) oil and its major components to human skin cells. Cell Prolif. 2006;39(4):241-248. doi:10.1111/j.1365-2184.2006.00384.x