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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

Dr Sumanth R, General Physician

Dr Sumanth R

General Physician

2 Years • MBBS

Bengaluru

PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru

400

60 Cashback

Mrs Sneha P V, Nutritionist

Mrs Sneha P V

Nutritionist

10 Years • Master of science in Food and Nutrition

Bengaluru

Apollo Clinic, Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru

400

60 Cashback

600

No Booking Fees

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

Dr Sumanth R, General Physician

Dr Sumanth R

General Physician

2 Years • MBBS

Bengaluru

PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru

400

60 Cashback

Mrs Sneha P V, Nutritionist

Mrs Sneha P V

Nutritionist

10 Years • Master of science in Food and Nutrition

Bengaluru

Apollo Clinic, Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru

400

60 Cashback

600

No Booking Fees

Consult Top Nutritionists

Ms. Lakshmi Tejasvi, Clinical Nutritionist

Ms. Lakshmi Tejasvi

Clinical Nutritionist

14 Years • M.Sc - Clinical Nutrition

Hyderabad

Vibgyor Nutri, Hyderabad

750

No Booking Fees

Dr Sumanth R, General Physician

Dr Sumanth R

General Physician

2 Years • MBBS

Bengaluru

PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru

400

60 Cashback

Dr. Ramalinga Reddy, General Physician

Dr. Ramalinga Reddy

General Physician

5 Years • MBBS MD General medicine

Bengaluru

PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru

500

75 Cashback

Dt. Ila Sharma, Clinical Nutritionist

Dt. Ila Sharma

Clinical Nutritionist

18 Years • Master in food & Nutrition

Gurugram

VIPUL GREENS - SOCIETY CLINIC, Gurugram

0

Mrs Sneha P V, Nutritionist

Mrs Sneha P V

Nutritionist

10 Years • Master of science in Food and Nutrition

Bengaluru

Apollo Clinic, Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru

400

60 Cashback

600

No Booking Fees

Consult Top Nutritionists

Ms. Lakshmi Tejasvi, Clinical Nutritionist

Ms. Lakshmi Tejasvi

Clinical Nutritionist

14 Years • M.Sc - Clinical Nutrition

Hyderabad

Vibgyor Nutri, Hyderabad

750

No Booking Fees

Dr Sumanth R, General Physician

Dr Sumanth R

General Physician

2 Years • MBBS

Bengaluru

PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru

400

60 Cashback

Dr. Ramalinga Reddy, General Physician

Dr. Ramalinga Reddy

General Physician

5 Years • MBBS MD General medicine

Bengaluru

PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru

500

75 Cashback

Dt. Ila Sharma, Clinical Nutritionist

Dt. Ila Sharma

Clinical Nutritionist

18 Years • Master in food & Nutrition

Gurugram

VIPUL GREENS - SOCIETY CLINIC, Gurugram

0

Mrs Sneha P V, Nutritionist

Mrs Sneha P V

Nutritionist

10 Years • Master of science in Food and Nutrition

Bengaluru

Apollo Clinic, Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru

400

60 Cashback

600

No Booking Fees

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