Cloves are the dried flower buds of the clove tree and are widely used as a spice. They contain compounds such as eugenol, which has antioxidant and mild antimicrobial properties. While cloves have some promising uses, they are not a cure for diseases, and many viral claims about them overstate the evidence.
Here are some evidence-based ways cloves may be useful:
- Flavor food with less salt or sugar
- Their strong flavor can help season foods naturally.
- Freshen breath temporarily
- Chewing a whole clove or using clove-containing products may temporarily reduce bad breath, but it doesn’t replace brushing and flossing.
- Support oral health
- Eugenol has mild numbing and antimicrobial properties. Dentists have long used clove-derived compounds in some dental materials. However, applying clove oil directly to a tooth or gums can irritate or burn tissue, especially if undiluted.
- Provide antioxidants
- Like many spices, cloves contain antioxidant compounds, though eating more cloves alone has not been shown to prevent disease.
- Add flavor to warm drinks and cooking
- Cloves are commonly used in teas, soups, curries, baked goods, and spice blends.
Things to be cautious about
- Clove oil is very concentrated. It should not be swallowed in large amounts and should not be applied undiluted to the skin or gums.
- Children are especially vulnerable to clove oil poisoning, which can be serious.
- People taking blood thinners or with bleeding disorders should speak with a healthcare professional before using large amounts of cloves or clove supplements, as eugenol may affect blood clotting.
- If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a medical condition, consult your healthcare provider before taking clove supplements.
For most people, using cloves as a culinary spice is safe and enjoyable. If you’re interested in using cloves for a specific health concern—such as toothache, digestion, or blood sugar—let me know, and I can explain what the research does and doesn’t show.
