Clove Oil
Quick Facts
- Type
- Essential oil / Botanical
- Source
- Steam-distilled from Syzygium aromaticum flower buds
- OMRI Listed
- Yes ✓
- Bee Safe
- Yes
- Pet Safe
- Caution
- Residual
- Short — 4-6 hours; eugenol degrades in UV light
- Best For
- Spot treatment of ant mounds. Fire ant control. Component in professional essential oil blends.
What Is Clove Oil?
High eugenol content (70-90%) acts as a contact insecticide and fumigant. Eugenol disrupts octopamine neuroreceptors and has documented acaricidal activity against mites. Also effective as an herbicide at high concentrations.
Source: Steam-distilled from Syzygium aromaticum flower buds
What Pests Does Clove Oil Kill?
Clove Oil is effective against the following pests:
How to Apply Clove Oil
Best for: Spot treatment of ant mounds. Fire ant control. Component in professional essential oil blends.
Avoid for: Broadcast foliar spraying (too phytotoxic). Households with cats. Contact with skin.
Residual activity: Short — 4-6 hours; eugenol degrades in UV light
Safety Profile
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Bee Safety | 🟢 Safe for bees |
| Pet Safety | 🔴 Use caution around pets |
| Overall Rating | Caution — Use with caution — timing and technique matter |
Why Isn't Clove Oil Working?
If Clove Oil isn't delivering results, check these common failure modes:
Strong phytotoxicity — eugenol kills plant cells too at higher concentrations
Skin irritant — eugenol causes contact dermatitis in many people
Herbicidal crossover — too much kills plants along with insects
Toxic to cats and some dog breeds
DIY Clove Oil Recipe
Spot treatment only: Mix 5 drops clove oil + 1 teaspoon castile soap per quart of water. Apply directly to ant mounds or spot-treat mealybugs. Do NOT use as full-plant spray.
Best Clove Oil Products
EcoSMART Ant & Roach Killer
RTU SprayClove + thyme oil blend for indoor use