Clove is a versatile, popular, and fragrant dried flower bud of the Syzygium aromaticum (also known as Eugenia caryophyllata) tree, which belongs to the Myrtaceae family and is native to Indonesia. This easily available spice adds a unique flavor, aroma, and color to culinary dishes and holds significant importance in traditional medicine, aromatherapy, and food preservation. Beyond the kitchen, cloves offer numerous health and medicinal benefits worth exploring.
Let’s take a closer look at how this tiny flower bud can support your health.
NUTRITIONAL VALUES OF CLOVES
Before diving into specific health benefits, it helps to understand what makes cloves so potent. They are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, including vitamins C, K, E, and B6, as well as calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, and manganese. Cloves also provide carbohydrates, beta sitosterol, nigericin, fiber, protein, and healthy fats. This impressive nutrient profile lays the foundation for their many therapeutic effects.
REDUCTION OF INFLAMMATION AND OXIDATIVE STRESS
One of the most celebrated benefits of cloves is their ability to fight oxidative stress. Their antioxidants particularly ascorbic acid, vitamin E, and eugenol help neutralize harmful free radicals that damage cells. By doing so, cloves reduce inflammation and provide a layer of protection against chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, arthritis, and even cancer. This antioxidant action is often the first step in preventing many lifestyle-related diseases.
ANTI-AGING AND NEUROPROTECTIVE ROLE IN ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE
Building on their antioxidant power, cloves may also support brain health. Recent preclinical studies suggest that eugenol acts as a multi-target therapeutic agent for Alzheimer’s disease (AD).
• It may improve cognitive function by reducing amyloid plaque deposition and preventing neuronal cell loss.
• By increasing resistance to oxidative stress, it can lower neuroinflammation and promote overall neuronal health.
• It inhibits acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase enzymes, boosting cholinergic activity essential for learning and memory.
• Some studies even indicate eugenol could promote longevity and improve health span in AD models by acting as a potential anti-aging agent.
While these findings are encouraging, future human clinical trials are needed to confirm its effectiveness and determine safe and effective doses for slowing the progression of AD.
CLOVES AND PEPTIC ULCERS
Moving from the brain to the gut, cloves also show promise in protecting the digestive system. Peptic ulcers occur when stomach acid erodes the protective mucosal lining, leading to painful sores. Cloves help by reducing acid secretion and stimulating mucus production, creating a stronger barrier against acid damage.
According to WebMD, moderate consumption of cloves may strengthen the mucus layer and reduce ulcer risk. Healthline adds that clove oil has shown activity against Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) a bacteria often responsible for stomach ulcers in test tube studies.
Eugenol, the main active compound in cloves, supports ulcer prevention through several mechanisms:
• Opening K(ATP) channels
• Reducing acid–pepsin secretion
• Enhancing mucin production
• Scavenging harmful free radicals
• Preventing harmful increases in nitric oxide levels
These combined effects explain why cloves have long been valued in traditional medicine for digestive health.
CLOVES AND LIVER HEALTH
The liver, our body’s main detoxification hub, also benefits from clove consumption. Thanks to eugenol and other nutrients, cloves help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation while boosting detoxification and enzyme activity.
According to WebMD, cloves may improve signs of liver cirrhosis and fatty liver disease. A 2022 animal study reported by Healthline found that clove extract reduced liver damage caused by thioacetamide.
However, because very high intake of cloves or clove oil can damage the liver, moderation remains essential.
CLOVES AND TOOTHACHE RELIEF
Shifting to oral health, cloves are a time-tested remedy for toothache. The eugenol they contain provides temporary relief through antibacterial, antimicrobial, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and mild anesthetic effects. This explains why clove oil remains a common ingredient in toothache drops, mouthwashes, and dental care products.
ANTICOAGULATION EFFECTS
Cloves also influence blood clotting. Eugenol can slow platelet aggregation and inhibit thromboxane synthesis, which helps reduce the risk of clots. While this property can be helpful in some cases, it increases bleeding risk particularly for people taking blood-thinning medications such as warfarin, heparin, or aspirin. Consultation with a healthcare provider is crucial before combining cloves with such treatments.
CLOVES AND BONE HEALTH
Bone strength depends on a balance of key nutrients, and cloves provide several of them. Vitamin C supports collagen production, manganese aids bone formation and density, and vitamin K helps the body absorb calcium. Their antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds further protect bones from age-related decline, making cloves a natural ally for skeletal health.
BLOOD SUGAR MANAGEMENT
Cloves can also play a role in managing blood sugar levels. Eugenol and nigericin reduce insulin resistance by improving glucose uptake in cells and supporting insulin production.
According to The FASEB Journal, daily intake of 1–3 grams of cloves may benefit people with type 2 diabetes by lowering glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol, without affecting HDL cholesterol. Other studies show that clove extract may help reduce blood sugar before and after meals in healthy or prediabetic individuals.
As with other benefits, moderation is key, as high intake can cause blood sugar to drop too low.
RESPIRATORY HEALTH
During cold seasons, cloves provide natural relief for respiratory issues. Their expectorant properties help loosen mucus, soothe coughs, and ease sore throats. Drinking clove tea or inhaling its aroma can provide comfort while their anti-inflammatory compounds support overall respiratory function.
IMMUNE SUPPORT
All of these properties contribute to one larger benefit: a stronger immune system. Cloves’ vitamins, minerals, and antimicrobial compounds help the body fight infections and stay resilient against everyday pathogens.
ANTIMICROBIAL PROPERTIES
Adding to their immune-boosting effects, cloves exhibit antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal activity. Their antimicrobial strength explains why clove oil is widely used in mouthwashes, toothpaste, and even food preservation. It is particularly effective against Candida albicans and may help slow certain viral infections.
CONCLUSION
From brain health to digestion, from liver function to bone strength, cloves demonstrate a remarkable range of health-supporting effects. Their combination of antioxidants, vitamins, and bioactive compounds makes them more than just a flavorful spice.
However, their potency is also a reminder to consume them wisely. Excessive intake can lead to side effects, particularly for people with liver conditions, bleeding disorders, or those taking blood-thinning medications. For most people, moderate amounts—such as using cloves in cooking or drinking clove tea are safe and beneficial.
As research continues, the full therapeutic potential of cloves will become clearer. For now, this humble spice stands as a fragrant partner in the journey toward better health.
FAQs ABOUT CLOVES
Q1. How many cloves can I eat daily for health benefits?
Most studies suggest 1–3 grams (about 2–4 whole cloves) per day is safe for most adults when used in food. Higher amounts or concentrated clove oil should only be used under medical supervision.
Q2. Can cloves cure diseases like Alzheimer’s or diabetes?
No. Current research shows cloves may support health by reducing oxidative stress, improving insulin sensitivity, and protecting brain cells in animal or early-stage studies. They are not a cure, and more human clinical trials are needed.
Q3. Are there side effects of eating too many cloves?
Excessive intake can cause liver irritation, low blood sugar, or increased bleeding risk—especially if you take blood thinners such as warfarin or aspirin. Always use in moderation.
Q4. Is clove oil safe for toothache?
Clove oil can provide temporary pain relief when applied sparingly to the affected tooth or gum, but avoid swallowing it and seek professional dental care for lasting treatment.
DISCLAIMER
This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using cloves or clove oil for therapeutic purposes, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, diabetic, on blood-thinning medication, or have liver disease.
CALL TO ACTION
Add a pinch of health to your meals today sprinkle cloves in your tea, curries, or baked goods for a natural antioxidant boost. But remember, moderation matters. For personalized guidance, talk to your healthcare professional before starting any supplement or high dose regimen.
REFERENCES
• WebMD. Health Benefits of Cloves.
• Healthline. Cloves: Benefits and uses.
• The FASEB Journal. Effect of Cloves on Glucose and Lipid Metabolism. • PubMed. Eugenol and Its Protective Role in Peptic Ulcer and Liver Health.