The Healing Benefits of Cloves🌿🔥

You know cloves from holiday pies.

From spiced cider.

From the warm, sweet-spicy scent that fills your kitchen in winter.

But this small, nail-like bud is far more than a flavoring agent.

Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum) have been treasured for over 2,000 years — used in Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and ancient Middle Eastern healing practices for their powerful medicinal properties.

And today, science confirms what healers have long known:

Cloves are a natural powerhouse — rich in antioxidants, antimicrobial compounds, and pain-relieving oils that support oral health, digestion, immunity, and overall wellness. 

Let’s explore the real healing benefits of cloves, how to use them safely at home, and why every woman (and man) should keep them in their pantry — not just for flavor, but for health.

 What Are Cloves?

 What Are Cloves?

Cloves are the dried flower buds of an evergreen tree native to Indonesia, now grown across tropical regions.

They’re harvested before blooming, then sun-dried until they turn dark brown and aromatic.

Despite their size, cloves pack a punch — thanks to a key compound:

 Eugenol – The Star Compound

Makes up 70–90% of clove essential oil

Has antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic (pain-relieving) properties

Is so effective, it’s still used in modern dentistry as a temporary pain reliever

This is why clove oil has been called “nature’s toothache remedy.”

 6 Science-Backed Health Benefits of Cloves

1. Natural Toothache Relief

Clove oil has been used for centuries to ease dental pain.

Eugenol numbs nerve endings and fights infection

Studies show it can reduce tooth pain as effectively as benzocaine (a common topical anesthetic)

 How to use: Dab 1–2 drops of diluted clove oil on a cotton ball and apply to the affected area.

 Never apply undiluted — can burn gum tissue.

2. Fights Oral Infections & Bad Breath

Cloves kill bacteria that cause:

Gum disease (gingivitis)

Cavities

Halitosis (bad breath)

A study published in the Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology found that clove mouthwash was as effective as commercial products in reducing plaque and microbes.

 Try it: Chew one whole clove after meals — naturally freshens breath and supports oral health.

3. Supports Digestive Health

Cloves stimulate the production of gastric juices and digestive enzymes, helping your body break down food more efficiently.

They may help relieve:

Bloating

Gas

Indigestion

Nausea

In Ayurveda, cloves are considered a “deepan” — a digestive fire igniter.

 Tip: Add 1–2 whole cloves to rice, soups, or stews — remove before eating.

4. Rich in Antioxidants

Cloves have one of the highest antioxidant levels of any spice — even higher than cinnamon or turmeric.

Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, which damage cells and contribute to:

Aging

Chronic inflammation

Heart disease

Cancer

 ORAC value (measure of antioxidant capacity): Cloves score over 290,000 — among the highest of all foods.

5. May Help Regulate Blood Sugar

Preliminary studies suggest cloves may improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood glucose levels.

A compound called eugeniin shows promise in regulating glucose metabolism

Animal studies show reduced fasting blood sugar

 Note: Not a replacement for diabetes medication — but may support metabolic health when used in moderation.

6. Boosts Immunity & Fights Infections

Cloves have natural antimicrobial, antiviral, and antifungal properties.

They’ve been shown to inhibit:

E. coli

Candida albicans (yeast)

Staphylococcus aureus

Even some respiratory viruses

 Great during cold and flu season — especially when combined with honey and lemon.

 3 Simple Home Remedies Using Cloves

1. Soothing Clove Tea (For Digestion & Relaxation)

Perfect for: Upset stomach, bloating, or calming nerves before bed.

Ingredients:

2 cups water

4–5 whole cloves

Optional: 1 slice ginger, ½ tsp honey

Instructions:

[object NodeList]

Boil water

Add cloves (and ginger if using)

Simmer 10 minutes

Strain and add honey

Sip slowly

 Drink 1x daily — avoid excess (eugenol in high doses can be toxic).

2. Clove Steam Inhalation (For Sinuses & Skin)

Perfect for: Cold congestion, sinus pressure, or clearing pores.

Ingredients:

4 cups boiling water

8–10 whole cloves

Instructions:

Pour into a large bowl

Lean over it (safe distance!)

Cover head with towel

Breathe deeply for 5–10 minutes

 Add eucalyptus or tea tree oil for extra decongestant power.

3. Homemade Clove Tincture (For Dental Pain)

Perfect for: Emergency toothache relief.

Ingredients:

¼ cup dried whole cloves

½ cup high-proof alcohol (vodka or rum)

Instructions:

Place cloves in a glass jar

Cover completely with alcohol

Seal and store in a cool, dark place

Shake daily for 2 weeks

Strain and store in a dropper bottle

To Use:

Dip cotton swab in tincture

Apply to sore tooth or gums

Repeat every few hours if needed

 Keep out of reach of children.

 Safety & Precautions

While cloves are safe in culinary amounts, caution is needed with concentrated forms:

Essential oil too strong

Always dilute (1–2 drops in carrier oil like coconut)

Not for internal use in large doses

Eugenol toxicity can affect liver and blood clotting

Avoid during pregnancy

May stimulate uterine contractions — consult doctor

Allergic reactions possible

Test on skin first — redness or burning means stop

Children under 2

Avoid clove oil entirely

 Bottom line: Whole cloves = safe. Oil and tinctures = use wisely.

 Final Thoughts: Sometimes the Most Powerful Medicine Comes in the Smallest Package

We chase wellness with expensive supplements, exotic herbs, and complex regimens.

But sometimes, the most potent remedies are already in our spice racks.

Cloves may be tiny.

But they carry the weight of ancient wisdom and modern science.

So next time you reach for that little jar…

Don’t just sprinkle.

Chew one.

Brew a tea.

Make a tincture.

Because sometimes, the difference between “just a spice” and “true healing”…

Isn’t in the dose.

It’s in the intention.

And once you start using cloves not just to flavor — but to heal?

You might just find that the best medicine doesn’t come from a lab.

It comes from the earth, fire, and quiet strength of a single bud.