You’ve probably seen cloves tucked away in your spice rack — those small, dark buds that give pumpkin pie, chai lattes, and mulled wine their unmistakable warmth. But these tiny spices do far more than flavor your favorite holiday treats.

For centuries, cloves have been treasured in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Known for their intense aroma and potent oil content, cloves have long been used to ease pain, support digestion, and even help fight off infections.

Modern research is beginning to catch up, revealing that these humble buds are packed with compounds like eugenol, a powerful antioxidant and natural anti-inflammatory. Let’s take a closer look at the top health benefits of cloves — and how to use them wisely in your daily routine.

 

 

What Are Cloves?

Cloves are the dried flower buds of the Syzygium aromaticum tree, native to the Maluku Islands in Indonesia. They’ve been traded for over 2,000 years — prized for their bold flavor and health-supporting qualities.

What makes cloves special?

They’re rich in:

• Eugenol – the main active compound (up to 90% of clove oil), known for its soothing, antimicrobial effects
• Antioxidants – help reduce oxidative stress in the body
• Key nutrients – including manganese, vitamin K, and dietary fiber

Eugenol is so effective that it’s still used today in some dental procedures and over-the-counter pain relief gels.

 

 

1. Natural Relief for Toothaches

Clove oil has long been used as a home remedy for tooth pain — and for good reason. Eugenol acts as a mild anesthetic and has natural antibacterial properties.

In fact, a 2006 study in the Journal of Dentistry found that clove gel worked as well as benzocaine in numbing oral discomfort.

How to use it:

• Mix 1–2 drops of clove oil with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil. Dab onto a cotton ball and place near the sore tooth (don’t swallow).
• Or chew on a whole clove near the painful area for a few minutes, then spit it out.

Important: Never use undiluted clove oil directly on your gums — it can cause burns or irritation.

 

 

2. Supports Healthy Digestion

Feeling bloated or gassy after meals? Cloves might help. They’re known to stimulate digestive enzymes and ease common issues like:

• Indigestion
• Nausea
• Bloating
• Gas

Clove extract has also shown promise in protecting the stomach lining against ulcers and bacteria like H. pylori.

Try this:

• Steep 2–3 whole cloves in hot water for 10 minutes to make a gentle digestive tea.
• Sprinkle ground cloves into smoothies, soups, or oatmeal.

 

 

3. Immune System Support

Cloves are one of the most antioxidant-rich spices you can find — even more than blueberries or turmeric, gram for gram.

They’re loaded with phenolic compounds and flavonoids that may help your body fend off seasonal bugs and support overall immune resilience.

A 2012 study found clove extract significantly inhibited the growth of harmful bacteria like E. coli and Staph aureus.

Easy ways to use:

• Add cloves to immune-boosting teas with ginger, honey, and lemon
• Use ground cloves in hearty stews, curries, or baked goods

 

4. May Support Healthy Blood Sugar Levels

Some early research suggests that cloves may help support insulin function and promote better blood sugar control — making them a potential ally for those managing prediabetes or metabolic health.

A 2019 animal study showed that clove extract helped lower blood glucose levels. Human studies are still limited, but the results are encouraging.

To include in your diet:

• Add a pinch of ground cloves to coffee, oatmeal, or yogurt
• Combine with other metabolism-friendly spices like cinnamon and turmeric

 

5. Freshens Breath & Supports Oral Health

Cloves don’t just help with toothaches — they’re a great natural breath freshener, too. Thanks to their antibacterial properties, they may help reduce the bacteria that cause bad breath, plaque, and gum issues.

That’s why you’ll find clove oil in many natural mouthwashes and herbal toothpastes.

Try this:

• Chew a whole clove for a few minutes (then spit out) to freshen your breath naturally
• Make a DIY mouth rinse: Mix 1 cup warm water with 3 drops clove oil and 3 drops tea tree oil, swish, and spit

 

6. Eases Inflammation & Minor Pain

Thanks to its anti-inflammatory effects, clove oil can be used topically to help relieve minor aches and pains — including:

• Joint stiffness
• Muscle soreness
• Headaches

Eugenol helps improve circulation and reduce pain when applied correctly.

How to use:

• Mix 2–3 drops of clove oil with a tablespoon of carrier oil (like almond or coconut) and gently massage into sore areas
• Add to a warm bath with Epsom salt for full-body relaxation

 

7. May Support Liver Health

Your liver plays a critical role in detoxifying your body — and early research suggests cloves may help support that function.

Animal studies have shown clove extract can reduce inflammation and fat buildup in the liver, possibly protecting it from damage caused by toxins and oxidative stress.

More human research is needed, but it’s a promising area of study for those interested in natural liver support.

 

Are Cloves Safe for Everyone?

• Cloves are generally safe when used in moderation in cooking or as a tea. However:
• Clove oil is very potent – always dilute before using topically
• People with bleeding disorders or those taking blood thinners should consult a healthcare provider before using cloves medicinally
• Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should use cloves in food amounts only

 

 

Final Thoughts

Cloves are more than a holiday spice — they’re a powerful natural remedy that’s been trusted for generations. Whether you’re sipping clove tea for digestion, using clove oil for sore muscles, or adding it to your meals for flavor and wellness, this small bud packs a big punch.

Incorporating cloves into your routine is an easy, affordable way to tap into nature’s medicine cabinet — and give your body a little extra care, the natural way.