How to use:
Add cloves to immune-boosting teas with ginger, lemon, and honey
Use in cooking during cold and flu season
4. May Help Regulate Blood Sugar
Preliminary research suggests cloves may improve insulin sensitivity .
A 2019 animal study found clove extract lowered blood glucose levels
Human trials are limited, but promising for prediabetes support
How to use:
Sprinkle ground cloves into oatmeal, yogurt, or coffee
Combine with cinnamon and turmeric for a metabolic boost
5. Natural Breath Freshener & Oral Health Aid
Cloves have antimicrobial properties that kill odor-causing bacteria.
Used in natural mouthwashes and toothpastes
Helps prevent plaque and gingivitis
How to use:
Chew a whole clove to freshen breath (don’t swallow)
Make a DIY mouthwash: 1 cup water + 3 drops clove oil + 3 drops tea tree oil (swish, then spit)
6. Anti-Inflammatory Pain Relief
Eugenol acts as a natural pain reliever and anti-inflammatory agent .
May help with arthritis, sore muscles, or headaches
Used in topical pain-relief oils and balms
How to use:
Mix 2–3 drops of clove oil with 1 tbsp carrier oil (coconut, almond) and massage into sore joints
Add to bathwater with Epsom salt for full-body relief
7. Supports Liver Health
Animal studies show clove oil may protect the liver from oxidative stress and toxin damage .
Reduces inflammation and fat buildup in the liver
May support detoxification pathways
A 2015 study in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies found clove extract reduced liver damage in rats.
How to Use Cloves at Home
1. Clove Tea
Boil 2–3 whole cloves in 1 cup water for 5–10 minutes
Strain and drink warm — great for digestion or immunity
2. DIY Clove Oil (for topical use)
Crush 1 tbsp whole cloves
Mix with ¼ cup carrier oil (olive or coconut)
Let sit in a jar for 5–7 days, then strain
Store in a dark glass bottle
3. Cooking & Baking
Add to curries, stews, rice dishes, or mulled beverages
Use ground cloves in spice blends like pumpkin pie spice
Safety Tips & Precautions
Safe in food amounts — great for daily use
Don’t swallow clove oil — can be toxic in large doses
Avoid in children under 2 — risk of liver damage
Pregnant or nursing? Talk to your doctor first
Allergic reactions? Stop use if you develop rash or swelling
Never use cloves as a replacement for medical treatment — especially for dental infections or