Is Clove Good for You? Science-Backed Benefits & Risks

Yes, cloves offer significant health benefits when consumed in moderation. Rich in antioxidants like eugenol, they support oral health, reduce inflammation, and may improve blood sugar control. However, excessive consumption can cause liver issues or interact with medications, making proper dosage essential for safe use.

For centuries, cloves have been valued not just for their warm, aromatic flavor but for their remarkable health properties. This small but mighty spice, derived from the dried flower buds of the Syzygium aromaticum tree, packs a powerful nutritional punch that modern science continues to validate. Let's explore what makes cloves a valuable addition to your pantry—and when you might want to exercise caution.

What Makes Cloves Nutritionally Unique

Cloves stand out among spices for their exceptional antioxidant concentration. According to USDA nutritional data, just one teaspoon (2 grams) of ground cloves contains:

Nutrient	Amount per Teaspoon	% Daily Value
Manganese	0.3 mg	13%
Vitamin K	3.6 mcg	3%
Dietary Fiber	0.7 g	3%
Antioxidants (ORAC)	290,283 μmol TE/100g	N/A

What truly sets cloves apart is their extraordinary antioxidant capacity. Research published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found cloves contain 30 times more antioxidants than blueberries by weight, primarily due to their high eugenol content—a compound responsible for many of their health benefits.

Science-Backed Health Benefits of Cloves

Dental Health Powerhouse

For generations, traditional medicine has used clove oil to relieve toothaches, and modern research confirms its effectiveness. A study in the Journal of Dentistry demonstrated that clove gel provided comparable pain relief to benzocaine for minor dental procedures. The American Dental Association acknowledges clove's temporary pain-relieving properties for dental emergencies, though it emphasizes professional treatment remains essential.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Eugenol, cloves' primary active compound, exhibits potent anti-inflammatory properties. Research from King Saud University showed that eugenol significantly reduced inflammatory markers in animal studies, suggesting potential benefits for conditions like arthritis. Human studies are still limited but promising, with a 2020 review in Nutrients highlighting cloves' potential role in managing chronic inflammation.

Blood Sugar Management

Emerging evidence suggests cloves may help regulate blood glucose levels. A 2019 study in the Journal of Diabetes Research found that clove extract improved insulin sensitivity in animal models. While more human research is needed, these findings offer hope for those managing prediabetes or type 2 diabetes through dietary approaches.

Antimicrobial Properties

Cloves demonstrate impressive antimicrobial activity against various pathogens. Research published in Phytotherapy Research showed clove oil effectively inhibited the growth of bacteria including E. coli and S. aureus. This explains why traditional medicine has long used cloves for preserving food and treating minor infections.

When Cloves Might Not Be Beneficial: Important Limitations

While cloves offer numerous health advantages, they're not appropriate for everyone in all circumstances. Understanding these context boundaries is crucial for safe consumption:

• Pregnancy considerations: The World Health Organization advises pregnant women to avoid medicinal doses of clove oil due to potential uterine stimulation effects, though culinary use in normal food amounts is generally considered safe.
• Medication interactions: Cloves may interact with blood-thinning medications like warfarin due to their vitamin K content and potential blood-thinning properties.
• Children's usage: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends against using clove oil for teething pain in infants due to potential tissue damage and methemoglobinemia risk.
• Oral surgery considerations: While helpful for temporary toothache relief, clove oil can interfere with blood clotting after dental procedures.

Practical Ways to Incorporate Cloves Safely

For maximum benefits with minimal risk, follow these evidence-based usage guidelines:

Culinary Applications

Add whole cloves to:

• Stews and braises (remove before serving)
• Pickling solutions for enhanced preservation
• Rice dishes for subtle flavor enhancement
• Homemade mulled wine or cider

Clove Tea Preparation

For a simple medicinal tea:

1. Add 2-3 whole cloves to 8 ounces of boiling water
2. Steep for 10-15 minutes
3. Strain and optionally add honey or lemon
4. Limit to 1-2 cups daily for therapeutic benefits

Clove Oil Safety Guidelines

When using clove oil topically:

• Always dilute with carrier oil (1-2 drops per teaspoon)
• Perform a patch test before widespread application
• Never apply undiluted directly to skin or gums
• Limit dental use to temporary relief (no more than 2-3 days)

How Cloves Compare to Other Common Spices

Understanding where cloves stand among other spices helps determine their unique value in your diet:

Spice	Antioxidant ORAC Value	Key Active Compound	Primary Health Benefit
Cloves	290,283 μmol TE/100g	Eugenol (70-90%)	Dental health, anti-inflammatory
Cinnamon	267,536 μmol TE/100g	Cinnamaldehyde	Blood sugar regulation
Oregano	200,248 μmol TE/100g	Carvacrol	Antimicrobial properties
Turmeric	127,068 μmol TE/100g	Curcumin	Anti-inflammatory effects

Source: USDA Database for the Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) of Selected Foods

Historical Evolution of Clove Usage

Cloves have journeyed from ancient remedy to modern superfood through distinct phases:

• Ancient Times (200 BCE-500 CE): Chinese royalty required visitors to chew cloves to freshen breath before audiences. Ayurvedic medicine documented cloves for digestive issues.
• Medieval Period (500-1500 CE): Arab traders controlled the clove trade, using them as both medicine and luxury item. European apothecaries prescribed cloves for toothaches and digestive complaints.
• Colonial Era (1500-1800 CE): Dutch and Portuguese fought for control of clove-producing islands. Western medicine began systematic study of clove's antiseptic properties.
• Modern Research (1900-Present): Scientific isolation of eugenol (1920s) led to understanding of cloves' mechanism of action. Current research focuses on standardized extracts for therapeutic applications.

Responsible Consumption Guidelines

To maximize benefits while minimizing risks, follow these evidence-based recommendations:

• For culinary use: 1-2 whole cloves per dish is generally safe for adults
• For tea: Limit to 2-3 cups daily using 2-3 cloves per cup
• For clove oil: Never exceed 2-3 drops diluted in carrier oil for topical use
• Maximum daily intake: The European Food Safety Authority suggests limiting eugenol intake to 2.5 mg per kilogram of body weight

Remember that cloves are a complementary approach to health, not a replacement for medical treatment. Consult your healthcare provider before using cloves therapeutically if you have existing health conditions or take medications.

Can cloves help with toothache relief?

Yes, clove oil provides temporary toothache relief due to its eugenol content, which has natural anesthetic and antiseptic properties. The American Dental Association recognizes its effectiveness for short-term pain management, but emphasizes it's not a substitute for professional dental care. Always dilute clove oil with a carrier oil before applying to gums.

How much clove is safe to consume daily?

For culinary use, 1-2 whole cloves per dish is generally safe. When making clove tea, limit to 2-3 cups daily using 2-3 cloves per cup. The European Food Safety Authority recommends limiting eugenol intake to 2.5 mg per kilogram of body weight. Excessive consumption can cause liver issues or digestive discomfort.

Are there any risks of using clove oil on gums?

Yes, undiluted clove oil can cause tissue damage, burns, or allergic reactions when applied directly to gums. It may also interfere with blood clotting after dental procedures. Always dilute with a carrier oil (1-2 drops per teaspoon) and use only for temporary relief (no more than 2-3 days). Children, pregnant women, and those with bleeding disorders should avoid medicinal use.

Can cloves help lower blood sugar levels?

Emerging research suggests cloves may improve insulin sensitivity. A 2019 study in the Journal of Diabetes Research found clove extract improved blood glucose regulation in animal models. While promising, more human studies are needed before recommending cloves as a diabetes treatment. Those managing blood sugar should continue prescribed treatments and consult their doctor before using cloves therapeutically.

Are cloves safe for children to consume?

Culinary amounts of cloves in food are generally safe for children. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics advises against using clove oil for teething pain due to risks of tissue damage and methemoglobinemia. Whole cloves pose choking hazards for young children. For medicinal purposes, consult a pediatrician before giving cloves to children under 12.