Description
The clove tree is an evergreen native to the Maluku Islands of Indonesia, now grown mainly in Indonesia, Madagascar and Zanzibar. Its flower buds start pale green and turn pink as they near flowering. Pickers on small family farms climb the trees or use ladders to snap off the clusters just before the buds open, usually from September to January. The buds are sun-dried on mats until they turn to the familiar brown spice, then distilled. The oil is pale yellow to golden with a warm, sweet, spicy scent. Eugenol makes up most of it.
Details
| Botanical name | Syzygium aromaticum (clove) |
|---|---|
| Origin | Madagascar, Indonesia |
| Part used | Dried flower buds |
| Extraction | Steam-distilled |
| Aroma | Warm, sweet, spicy |
| Ingredients | 100% Syzygium aromaticum bud oil |
Bud, not leaf: clove bud oil is distilled from the spice itself, which makes it softer, sweeter and costlier than the more common clove leaf oil.
How to use
- Candles and soap: add to candles and soaps for a warm, spicy scent.
- Diffuser: add 1 to 2 drops with orange or cinnamon in winter blends.
- Body oil: add no more than 1 drop to a tablespoon (15ml) of carrier oil.
Essential oils are concentrated. Always dilute before use on skin, patch test first, keep away from eyes and out of reach of children, and do not take internally. If you are pregnant or nursing, check with your doctor before use. Clove oil is strong and can irritate skin. Use no more than 1 drop per tablespoon (15ml) of carrier oil.
FAQs
What is the difference between clove bud and clove leaf oil?
Bud oil comes from the dried flower buds and smells softer and sweeter. Leaf oil is harsher and cheaper.
What is eugenol?
The main aromatic compound in clove oil, which gives its warm, spicy scent.
What does it blend with?
Orange, cinnamon, nutmeg and vanilla.
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