Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) Extract has Antibacterial and Antifungal Effects against Human Scalp Microbes

Background: Since ancient times, humans have treated themselves with herbs and found them effective against many diseases. Therefore, they transferred their experience to the next generations. However, utilizing these natural products was based on personal experience rather than scientific evidence. Thus, scientifically testing these assumptions is necessary. Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) is rich in phytochemicals, making it a good pain reliever and disinfection agent against many microbes, including those that might infect hair. Materials and Methods: This study screened microbes isolated from the human scalp and subjected them to different clove aqueous extraction concentrations. 6 volunteers provided samples from their scalps, and two microorganisms were found: Staphylococcus aureus and Cryptococcus neoformans. Clove extract was added at different concentrations-100%, 50%, 20%, and 0%-to Petri dishes treated with 1 mL of liquid cultured bacteria or fungi. Each Petri dish was divided equally into 4 quarters, and each quarter contained a well created with a sterile cork. Two wells were filled with plant extract, and two others with 1 mL of water (control). Results: After incubation, inhibition zones were evaluated, and the clove extract prevented the development of both microbes. However, only C. neoformans growth inhibition was dose-dependent. Conclusion: The results indicate that clove extract is effective against isolated scalp microbes (S. aureus and C. neoformans) and can be used as a treatment for scalp problems.