What if your spice cupboard were hiding a real wellness treasure?
Some pairings passed down for centuries continue to win people over thanks to their simplicity and versatility. That’s the case with rosemary and cloves—two natural ingredients we think we know well, yet whose combination holds many surprises.
Used together, they fit just as easily into a beauty routine as into everyday comfort rituals, all without unnecessary complexity.
Why combine rosemary and cloves?
Taken separately, rosemary and cloves are already widely appreciated. Together, they form a balanced blend that is both invigorating and comforting. Rosemary is known for its fresh, stimulating aroma, while cloves bring a warm, spicy note. This natural complementarity makes them an especially interesting duo within a holistic approach to natural well-being.
This pairing is particularly valued for its versatility: hair care, skin care, massages, occasional digestive discomfort… a true everyday ally that’s easy to adopt.
A natural boost for hair
Rosemary is commonly used in hair care for its toning effect on the scalp. It’s appreciated for helping maintain a healthy scalp and restoring vitality to dull or tired-looking hair. Cloves, meanwhile, are known for helping support scalp balance and reduce feelings of discomfort.
When used in a gentle massage, an oil infused with rosemary and cloves can be added to a simple hair-care routine alongside your usual shampoo. It’s recommended to apply the oil to a dry scalp before washing, to help it absorb more effectively. The result: hair that looks stronger and shinier, and a scalp that feels more comfortable.
A popular combination for massage and relaxation
After a long day or physical activity, the body often craves a moment of release. Rosemary has traditionally been used for its warming qualities, making it ideal for massage. Cloves, thanks to their powerful aroma, are often associated with a feeling of localized comfort.
Used in massage, this oil provides a pleasant warming sensation and encourages muscle relaxation. For best results, apply it to clean skin using slow, circular movements to promote relaxation. A simple ritual that invites you to slow down and reconnect with your body.
Gentle support for digestion
When it comes to internal well-being, rosemary and cloves appear in many culinary traditions. Rosemary is often appreciated after hearty meals, while cloves are commonly used for their comforting effect on the digestive system.
As a light infusion, this duo pairs well with the end of a meal. It’s best to steep it for just a few minutes to obtain a mild drink that brings a sense of lightness and comfort, without feeling heavy.
A valuable aid for the skin
In homemade skincare, this combination is also appreciated for its benefits to the skin. Rosemary is rich in antioxidant compounds, which help the skin cope with external stressors. Cloves, on the other hand, are often used to help purify and balance skin prone to blemishes.
Applied locally, a properly diluted oil can complement a simple beauty routine. It’s best used occasionally, on clean skin, to help promote clearer-looking skin and a more even complexion.
How to easily prepare a homemade oil
Preparation is straightforward:
Place one tablespoon of rosemary and one tablespoon of cloves in a clean, dry jar, then cover with about 200 ml of vegetable oil (olive, coconut, or sweet almond oil).
Seal the jar and let it infuse for two weeks away from light, gently shaking it every two or three days to keep the mixture well blended.
Then strain using a fine sieve or a clean cloth.
This oil can be stored for several months in a dark glass bottle, away from heat.
Precautions to keep in mind
As with any natural ingredient, moderation is essential. A patch test in the crook of the elbow is recommended before any application. Internal use should remain occasional and reasonable, and certain situations call for advice from a healthcare professional.
Rosemary and cloves remind us that well-being often begins with simple, accessible gestures deeply rooted in tradition.