Cloves Benefits: Uses, Nutrition & Side Effects

What are Cloves?

Cloves are the aromatic dried flower buds of Syzygium aromaticum, an evergreen tree native to Indonesia, native to Indonesia. Known for their distinct, warm, and slightly sweet flavour, cloves have been used for centuries as a spice in various global cuisines. Beyond their culinary uses, cloves have also been treasured in traditional medicine for their potential health benefits.

The unique flavour and aroma of cloves come from their rich content of bioactive compounds, particularly eugenol. This compound is responsible for many of the medicinal properties attributed to cloves. As you explore the benefits of cloves, you'll discover how this small but mighty spice can support your well-being in numerous ways.

Cloves Nutrition Facts

Top Health Benefits of Cloves

• Rich in antioxidants: Cloves are an excellent source of antioxidants, especially eugenol, which helps protect your cells from oxidative damage.
• May support liver health: The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of cloves may contribute to better liver function.
• Can help regulate blood sugar levels: Animal studies suggest that cloves may help manage blood sugar, though more human research is needed.
• Possess antimicrobial properties: They have been shown to inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and fungi, potentially supporting overall health.
• May promote oral health: The eugenol in cloves can help reduce plaque and relieve tooth pain, making them a natural ally for your oral care routine.
• Support bone health: Cloves are rich in manganese, a trace mineral important for bone formation and metabolic health.
• May aid digestion: Traditionally used as a carminative, cloves may help alleviate digestive discomfort like bloating and gas.

Traditional Uses of Cloves

• Culinary spice: The use of cloves is common in curries, baked goods, and hot beverages, adding warmth and depth to various dishes.
• Traditional medicine: Ayurveda and Chinese medicine have long utilised cloves for treating digestive issues, toothaches, and respiratory problems.
• Oral care: Clove oil has long been used as a natural remedy for toothache. Clove-infused mouthwashes can contribute to better oral hygiene.
• Topical applications: Diluted clove oil may be applied to the skin for minor pain relief and to help combat certain skin infections.

How to Use Cloves in Daily Diet

• Spice up your curries, stews, and soups with whole or ground cloves for added flavour complexity.
• Incorporate cloves into your baking repertoire, from cakes and cookies to spice blends like pumpkin pie spice.
• Brew a comforting clove tea by steeping whole cloves in hot water along with ginger and honey.
• Enhance rice dishes, marinades, and pickling recipes with the warm, aromatic notes of cloves.
• Add a pinch of ground cloves to your morning oatmeal or smoothie for a warm, aromatic flavour.

Recommended Daily Intake of Cloves

The WHO/FAO Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has established an acceptable daily intake (ADI) for eugenol — the main active compound in cloves — at 2.5 mg/kg body weight for general well-being, indicating recognised safety and some functional health value.

However, it's essential to note that consuming excessive amounts of cloves, particularly clove oil, can be toxic. Ingesting more than the recommended amount or large quantities of whole cloves daily should be avoided.

Possible Side Effects of Cloves

While the health benefits of cloves are well recognised, it’s equally important to be aware of their potential drawbacks.

Excessive or improper use may lead to the following side effects:

• Allergic reactions: Some people may experience skin rash, itching, or swelling if they are sensitive to cloves.
• Gastrointestinal discomfort: Consuming too many cloves can lead to nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea.
• Increased bleeding risk: The eugenol in cloves may affect blood clotting, so caution is advised for those with bleeding disorders or taking blood-thinning medications.
• Liver toxicity: High doses of clove oil have been associated with liver damage in some cases.
• Respiratory issues: In rare instances, inhaling or using excessive amounts of clove oil can cause respiratory distress.

Who Should Avoid Excessive Clove Consumption

Although cloves’ nutrition offers valuable antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support overall health, certain individuals should exercise caution and avoid excessive consumption, including:

• Individuals taking blood-thinning medications like warfarin, as cloves may increase the risk of bleeding.
• People with liver disorders, as high doses of cloves or clove oil may worsen liver problems.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider before using clove supplements or oil.
• Children should not ingest clove oil due to the potential for toxicity.
• Those with a known allergy to cloves should avoid consuming them in any form.

Conclusion

Cloves are a versatile spice that offers a range of potential health benefits thanks to their rich content of antioxidants and nutrients. From supporting oral health to aiding digestion, cloves have benefits that extend well beyond the culinary realm. However, it's essential to consume cloves in moderation and be aware of possible side effects, especially when using concentrated clove oil.

Most people can safely enjoy the benefits of cloves by incorporating them into a balanced diet. If you have any underlying health conditions or concerns about using cloves for medicinal purposes, it's always best to consult with your healthcare provider.

At Metropolis Healthcare, we understand the importance of making informed decisions about your health. Our comprehensive test list of 4,000+ diagnostics is backed by a CAP proficiency score exceeding 98%, placing us among the top 1% of labs globally. Take the first step today by visiting our website or booking an at-home sample collection – your health is worth prioritising.

FAQs

Can cloves help with tooth pain?

Yes, cloves, particularly clove oil, have been traditionally used to alleviate tooth pain. The eugenol in cloves acts as a natural anaesthetic and has antimicrobial properties. While clinical evidence supports its short-term use for relief, it's crucial to seek professional dental care for underlying dental issues.

Are cloves good for weight loss?

There is no direct scientific evidence linking cloves to weight loss. However, their potential to support digestion and reduce inflammation may indirectly contribute to weight management when consumed as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.

How many cloves should I consume daily?

For most adults, consuming 1-2 teaspoons of ground cloves or 3–4 whole cloves per day is considered safe. Higher doses, especially of clove oil, are not recommended without the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Can clove tea help with colds and coughs?

Clove tea may offer soothing relief for colds and coughs due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Clove tea has been used traditionally for this purpose, though more clinical research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.

Is it safe to apply clove oil directly to the skin?

No, undiluted clove oil should not be applied directly to the skin, as it can cause irritation or allergic reactions. Always dilute clove oil with a carrier oil before topical use and perform a patch test to check for sensitivity.

References

• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3819475/#b10
• https://www.nutritionvalue.org/Spices%2C_ground%2C_cloves_nutritional_value.html
• https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-cloves
• https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/benefits-of-cloves
• https://ayurved.dpu.edu.in/blogs/ayurvedic-health-benefits-of-clove