The Ultimate Guide to Cloves: Benefits, Uses, and How They Work
Cloves have one of the highest antioxidant levels of any food — even more than many fruits and vegetables.
Their ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) score is off the charts, meaning they’re excellent at:
- Neutralizing free radicals
- Slowing cellular aging
- Reducing the risk of chronic diseases
Just one teaspoon of ground cloves delivers a massive antioxidant boost.
7. Aids Digestion & Soothes the Gut
In traditional medicine, cloves are used to:
- Relieve bloating and gas
- Stimulate digestive enzyme production
- Calm nausea and motion sickness
They also help kill harmful gut bacteria while supporting healthy digestion.
Try it: Sip clove tea after meals to support digestion.
Other Uses of Cloves
Clove Tea
Clove Tea- Boil 2–3 whole cloves in water for 10 minutes
- Strain and drink warm — great for immunity and digestion
Infused Oil
Infused Oil- Heat olive oil with cloves and garlic
- Use for cooking or as a natural remedy for earaches (cooled)
Natural Pest Repellent
Natural Pest Repellent- Clove oil deters mosquitoes, ants, and rodents
- Mix with water and spray around entry points
Air Freshener & Mood Booster
Air Freshener & Mood Booster- Simmer cloves with cinnamon and orange peels for a warm, festive scent
- The aroma is naturally uplifting and stress-relieving
Potential Side Effects & Precautions
While cloves are safe in culinary amounts, overuse — especially in concentrated forms — can cause issues.
Possible Side Effects:
- Mouth or skin irritation (from undiluted oil)
- Liver damage (with excessive essential oil use)
- Bleeding risk (eugenol has blood-thinning effects)
- Allergic reactions (rare but possible)
Avoid or use with caution if you:
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have bleeding disorders
- Are on blood thinners (like warfarin)
- Have diabetes (cloves may enhance medication effects)
Always consult your doctor before using clove supplements or essential oil regularly.
