Cloves: History, Health Benefits, and How to Use This Ancient Spice

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before using any supplements or natural remedies, especially if you have existing medical conditions.

What Are Cloves?

Cloves are among the oldest and most aromatic spices in the world. With their warm, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor, they’ve been used for centuries in both cooking and natural medicine.

Scientifically known as Syzygium aromaticum, cloves are the dried flower buds of the clove tree — a fragrant evergreen native to Indonesia’s Maluku Islands, traditionally called the “Spice Islands.”

Today, cloves are widely cultivated in:

Indonesia
India
Sri Lanka
Madagascar
Tanzania

Their global popularity is owed not only to their flavor but also to their powerful medicinal properties.

How Cloves Grow and Are Harvested

Clove trees grow best in warm, tropical climates with:

Rich, well-drained soil
High humidity
Consistent rainfall

These trees can reach 30 feet in height and produce bright crimson flower buds. Farmers hand-pick these buds before they bloom — a careful process that preserves their natural oils and maximum flavor.

Once harvested, the buds are sun-dried until they turn a deep reddish-brown. This drying process helps concentrate eugenol, the compound responsible for cloves’ signature aroma and most of their health benefits.

Health Benefits of Cloves

Cloves are far more than a kitchen spice — they’re packed with nutrients and bioactive compounds that support overall wellness. Here are the top science-backed benefits:

1. Rich in Antioxidants

Cloves contain powerful antioxidants, especially eugenol, which protects your cells from oxidative stress.
Oxidative stress contributes to:

Aging
Inflammation
Chronic diseases

Studies show that eugenol can help reduce inflammation and neutralize harmful free radicals, promoting healthier cells and tissues.

2. Supports Oral and Dental Health

Cloves — particularly clove oil — have been used for hundreds of years to soothe toothaches and gum pain.

Their natural properties include:

Antibacterial
Analgesic (pain-relieving)
Anti-inflammatory

Many natural toothpastes and mouth rinses now use clove extract to help reduce oral bacteria and freshen breath.

3. Aids Digestion

In traditional medicine, cloves are commonly used to support digestive health.

They help by:

Stimulating digestive enzymes
Reducing gas and bloating
Easing nausea
Supporting nutrient absorption

A warm cup of clove tea after meals may help soothe an upset stomach.

4. Strengthens the Immune System

The antimicrobial properties of cloves may help your body fight off:

Viruses
Bacteria
Fungi

Consuming cloves in small, regular amounts may support a stronger immune response.

5. Helps Regulate Blood Sugar

Early research suggests compounds in cloves may improve insulin function and help stabilize blood sugar levels.

While more studies are still needed, adding a pinch of clove to meals may offer gentle support for glucose control.

6. Supports Liver Health

Clove extract has shown promise in helping protect the liver from toxins.
In some studies, eugenol improved liver function and reduced inflammation in cases of fatty liver disease.

However, moderation is crucial — too much eugenol can irritate or harm the liver.

How Cloves Work in the Body

Most of the spice’s benefits come from eugenol, which acts as:

An antioxidant
An anti-inflammatory agent
A natural antimicrobial

This helps the body by:

Reducing tissue inflammation
Neutralizing free radicals
Fighting pathogens
Supporting immune and digestive function

But remember: high doses of eugenol are not safe. Always use cloves in small culinary amounts unless advised otherwise by a doctor.

Common Uses of Cloves

In Cooking

Cloves add warmth and depth to a wide variety of dishes:

Add whole cloves to soups, stews, marinades, and mulled wine
Sprinkle ground cloves into cakes, cookies, pies, or oatmeal
Mix clove powder with honey and lemon for a soothing tea

For Health and Home

Clove Oil: Always dilute with a carrier oil before applying to gums or skin
Clove Tea: Steep 3–4 cloves in hot water for digestion support
Aromatherapy: Add to a diffuser for a cozy, spicy scent

Precautions and Side Effects

Cloves are safe for most people when consumed in normal culinary amounts. However:

Avoid ingesting large amounts of clove oil — it can be toxic to the liver.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before using clove supplements.
People on blood thinners should use cloves carefully, as eugenol may slow blood clotting.

As with any natural remedy: moderation is key.

The Ultimate Guide to Cloves: Benefits, Uses, and How They Work