Clove Benefits for Health and Wellness
Discover the powerful health benefits of cloves, from relieving toothaches and aiding digestion to boosting immunity and controlling blood sugar. Learn how to use cloves daily for better wellness.
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Last updated on 16th Jul, 2025
Introduction
Cloves are small, aromatic flower buds that pack a powerful punch when it comes to health benefits. They have been used for centuries in traditional medicine and cooking, thanks to their rich flavour and medicinal properties. Whether you're looking to boost your immunity, ease toothaches, or improve digestion, cloves can be a great natural remedy.
In this article, we’ll explore the many health benefits of cloves, how they work, and simple ways to include them in your daily routine.
What Are Cloves?
Cloves are dried flower buds from the Syzygium aromaticum tree, native to Indonesia but now grown in many tropical regions. They have a warm, sweet, and slightly bitter taste, making them a popular spice in both sweet and savoury dishes. Beyond their culinary uses, cloves are packed with essential nutrients like:
Eugenol (a natural antiseptic and pain reliever)
Antioxidants (to fight free radicals)
Vitamins & Minerals (Vitamin K, manganese, fibre, and small amounts of calcium and magnesium)
These compounds make cloves a powerhouse for health and wellness.
Top Health Benefits of Cloves
The health benefits of cloves include:
1. Relieves Toothache and Improves Oral Health
Cloves have been used for centuries as a natural remedy for toothaches and gum pain. The eugenol in cloves acts as a natural anaesthetic and antibacterial agent, helping to:
Reduce tooth pain
Fight bad breath
Prevent gum infections
How to use:
Apply clove oil directly to the affected tooth (dilute with coconut oil if sensitive).
Chew a whole clove for temporary relief.
Use clove-infused mouthwash for fresher breath.
2. Boosts Digestion and Reduces Bloating
Cloves stimulate digestive enzymes, helping your body break down food more efficiently. They also:
Reduce gas and bloating
Soothe stomach ulcers
Relieve nausea
How to use:
Drink clove tea (steep 2-3 cloves in hot water for 5 minutes).
Add ground cloves to meals like soups and curries.
3. Strengthens Immunity
Cloves are rich in antioxidants, which help fight infections and strengthen your immune system. They also have antiviral and antibacterial properties, making them useful for:
Fighting colds and flu
Reducing inflammation
Speeding up recovery from illnesses
How to use:
Mix honey and clove powder for a natural immune booster.
Add cloves to warm milk before bedtime.
Consult Top Nutritionists
4. Helps Control Blood Sugar Levels
Studies suggest that cloves may help regulate blood sugar by improving insulin function. This makes them beneficial for people with diabetes or prediabetes.
How to use:
Brew clove tea and drink it in the morning.
Sprinkle clove powder on oatmeal or smoothies.
5. Supports Liver Health
Cloves contain compounds that help detoxify the liver and improve its function. They may also reduce oxidative stress, protecting against liver damage.
How to use:
Consume clove-infused water daily.
Add cloves to detox drinks with lemon and ginger.
6. Acts as a Natural Pain Reliever
Thanks to eugenol, cloves have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. They can help with:
Headaches
Joint pain (arthritis)
Muscle soreness
How to use:
Massage clove oil (mixed with a carrier oil) on sore muscles.
Inhale clove oil steam for headache relief.
7. Improves Respiratory Health
Cloves can help clear congestion, soothe a sore throat, and reduce coughing. They are especially helpful during cold and flu season.
How to use:
Gargle with warm clove water for throat infections.
Inhale clove steam by adding a few drops of clove oil to hot water.
How to Include Cloves in Your Diet
Cloves can be used in many forms:
Whole cloves – Add to teas, soups, or rice dishes.
Ground cloves – Use in baking, smoothies, or spice blends.
Clove oil – Apply topically (diluted) or use in aromatherapy.
Simple Recipes:
1. Clove Tea: Boil 2-3 cloves in water, strain, and add honey.
2. Golden Milk with Cloves: Mix turmeric, clove powder, and warm milk.
3. Clove-Infused Honey: Soak cloves in honey for a week and use as a sweetener.
Precautions and Side Effects
While cloves are generally safe, excessive use may cause:
Mouth or throat irritation (due to strong eugenol content)
Allergic reactions in some people
Blood thinning (avoid before surgeries)
Consult a doctor if:
You are pregnant or breastfeeding.
You take blood thinners or diabetes medications.
When to Seek Medical Help
While cloves offer many benefits, they are not a substitute for medical treatment. If you experience:
Severe tooth pain (may indicate an infection)
Persistent digestive issues
Uncontrolled blood sugar levels
It’s best to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Conclusion
Cloves are a simple yet powerful natural remedy with numerous health benefits. From easing toothaches to boosting immunity, they can be a great addition to your wellness routine. Try incorporating them into your diet or using clove oil for minor ailments.
If you have any health concerns or need personalised advice, you can book a consultation with a doctor on Apollo 24|7 for expert guidance.
Consult Top Nutritionists
Consult Top Nutritionists
Ms. Lakshmi Tejasvi
Clinical Nutritionist
14 Years • M.Sc - Clinical Nutrition
Hyderabad
Vibgyor Nutri, Hyderabad
Dr Sumanth R
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Ramalinga Reddy
General Physician
5 Years • MBBS MD General medicine
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dt. Ila Sharma
Clinical Nutritionist
18 Years • Master in food & Nutrition
Gurugram
VIPUL GREENS - SOCIETY CLINIC, Gurugram
Mrs Sneha P V
Nutritionist
10 Years • Master of science in Food and Nutrition
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru
Consult Top Nutritionists
Ms. Lakshmi Tejasvi
Clinical Nutritionist
14 Years • M.Sc - Clinical Nutrition
Hyderabad
Vibgyor Nutri, Hyderabad
Dr Sumanth R
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Ramalinga Reddy
General Physician
5 Years • MBBS MD General medicine
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dt. Ila Sharma
Clinical Nutritionist
18 Years • Master in food & Nutrition
Gurugram
VIPUL GREENS - SOCIETY CLINIC, Gurugram
Mrs Sneha P V
Nutritionist
10 Years • Master of science in Food and Nutrition
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru
