Cloves may be tiny, but their impact on wellness is anything but small. Known for their rich aroma and warm, spicy flavor, cloves have been used in traditional medicine for centuries—and today, science is catching up. These dried flower buds, often tucked away in spice jars, are full of health-supporting compounds that may benefit your body in subtle, meaningful ways.
From soothing digestion to supporting oral care, cloves continue to earn their place in natural health circles. But what exactly can they do, and how can you use them safely? This article explores the evidence-based roles that cloves play in health care, both historically and in modern wellness practices.
What Are Cloves?
Cloves are the dried flower buds of the Syzygium aromaticum tree, native to Southeast Asia. They’re widely used in cooking, teas, and natural remedies—and are especially valued in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine.
Rich in antioxidants, essential oils, and nutrients, cloves have been used to:
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Ease occasional digestive discomfort
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Support oral hygiene
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Freshen breath
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Promote circulation and immune resilience
Let’s dive deeper into the specific health roles cloves can play and how they fit into a balanced lifestyle.
1. Cloves and Digestive Comfort
One of the oldest traditional uses for cloves is in promoting healthy digestion. Whether consumed whole, as a tea, or in powdered form, cloves are believed to stimulate digestive enzymes and help with bloating and gas.
Why it works:
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Cloves contain eugenol, a compound with calming and soothing properties.
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They may help the stomach produce digestive enzymes that break down food.
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Cloves can relax the smooth muscles in the digestive tract, reducing tension.
According to WebMD, small amounts of cloves may help relieve occasional indigestion when used in moderation. Drinking clove tea after meals is a popular traditional practice in many cultures.
How to use it:
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Steep 2–3 whole cloves in hot water for 10 minutes.
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Drink slowly after meals to support digestion.
2. A Natural Ally for Oral Health
If you’ve ever had a toothache and reached for clove oil, you’re not alone. Cloves have a long-standing reputation in oral care thanks to their numbing effect and antimicrobial properties.
Cloves may help:
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Soothe minor tooth discomfort (temporarily)
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Reduce bad breath naturally
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Support gum health with their antibacterial qualities
A review published in The Journal of Dentistry noted that eugenol, found in cloves, is commonly used in dental products due to its mild anesthetic and antiseptic effects.
Practical uses:
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Clove oil (diluted) can be dabbed on the gums for minor tooth discomfort.
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Clove-infused mouth rinses may freshen breath and help keep the mouth clean.
Important: Always dilute clove oil and never swallow it. Overuse can irritate the mouth and gums. For persistent dental concerns, always consult your dentist.
3. Rich in Antioxidants
Cloves are incredibly high in antioxidants—compounds that help the body defend itself against oxidative stress and cell damage. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, ground cloves have one of the highest antioxidant scores of all common spices.
Key antioxidant compounds in cloves include:
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Eugenol
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Vitamin C
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Flavonoids
These antioxidants support:
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General cellular health
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Skin protection from environmental stress
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Healthy aging
Including small amounts of cloves in your cooking or tea may be a flavorful way to support your body’s natural defense systems.
4. Immune System Support
In traditional systems of medicine, cloves are often used to promote resilience during seasonal changes. Their warming nature and antimicrobial properties make them a favorite in homemade teas and tonics meant to support the immune system.
While cloves aren’t a replacement for medication or vaccination, their eugenol content may help the body stay strong against common environmental threats.
Ways to include cloves for immune support:
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Add to spiced herbal teas with cinnamon and ginger.
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Use in warm broths during cold weather.
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Mix into homemade remedies with honey and lemon (in small amounts).
Always speak with your healthcare provider if you’re managing a condition or using herbs alongside medication.
5. May Help with Blood Sugar Support
Some studies have explored cloves’ potential role in supporting healthy blood sugar levels. While the research is still early and not conclusive, compounds in cloves may help the body use insulin more efficiently.
A small study published in the journal Nutrition suggested that clove extract, when used in moderation, may have a positive effect on glucose metabolism in people with healthy lifestyles. However, more clinical studies are needed before cloves can be recommended for blood sugar management.
If you’re interested in trying cloves this way:
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Use them as part of a balanced, plant-rich diet.
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Avoid relying solely on cloves for managing health concerns.
6. Supporting Skin and Hair Naturally
The antioxidants and antimicrobial qualities in cloves make them a popular ingredient in some natural beauty routines. Clove-infused oils or rinses are sometimes used to help:
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Promote scalp cleanliness
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Refresh the skin with gentle toning effects
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Enhance shine in dark hair tones
While evidence is limited, many people use clove water as a scalp rinse or add diluted clove oil to DIY skin treatments. If using topically, always do a patch test to avoid irritation.
Tips for Safely Using Cloves
While cloves offer many potential benefits, they’re very potent and should be used in moderation. Here are some practical tips:
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Use whole or ground cloves in teas, meals, or spice blends.
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Limit to 1–2 servings a day of clove-based beverages or foods.
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Never apply clove oil directly to the skin or gums—always dilute with a carrier oil.
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Do not swallow clove oil, as it can be toxic in concentrated amounts.
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Consult your doctor before using cloves regularly, especially if you’re pregnant, nursing, or managing chronic conditions.
How to Add Cloves to Your Routine
Want to try cloves for yourself? Here are a few simple ideas:
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Clove tea: Steep 2–3 whole cloves in hot water for 10 minutes. Add cinnamon or honey if desired.
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Cooking: Add ground cloves to oatmeal, curries, roasted vegetables, or baked goods.
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Mouth rinse: Boil cloves in water, cool, and use as a swish (don’t swallow).
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Aromatic clove sachets: Use dried cloves in cotton pouches to freshen drawers and closets naturally.
Final Thoughts: Small Spice, Big Possibilities
Cloves are more than just a holiday spice—they’re a time-tested, naturally supportive addition to your wellness toolkit. From supporting digestion and fresh breath to providing antioxidant protection, this small bud holds a surprising range of gentle health benefits.
Just remember: natural doesn’t mean risk-free. Use cloves with care, in moderation, and always check with your healthcare provider before making significant changes.
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Consult your doctor before making health changes or using herbs as part of your routine.