Clove
Clove
Clove is an important spice and is also known as " Mother Nature’s Antiseptic".
It is an effective home remedy for toothache. You can place a whole clove near the aching tooth to get relief from the pain. Clove can help provide relief from cough and sore throat due to its antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It can also help in the management of diabetes as it can lower the blood sugar levels.
Clove oil can also help prevent mosquito bites due to its excellent mosquito repellent property. Consuming Clove churna or applying Clove oil to the skin of the penis might help prevent premature ejaculation.
It should be kept in mind that Clove oil can burn and damage the skin or the area of application if used without diluting it[1][2][5][8].
It is an effective home remedy for toothache. You can place a whole clove near the aching tooth to get relief from the pain. Clove can help provide relief from cough and sore throat due to its antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It can also help in the management of diabetes as it can lower the blood sugar levels.
Clove oil can also help prevent mosquito bites due to its excellent mosquito repellent property. Consuming Clove churna or applying Clove oil to the skin of the penis might help prevent premature ejaculation.
It should be kept in mind that Clove oil can burn and damage the skin or the area of application if used without diluting it[1][2][5][8].
What are the synonyms of Clove?
Syzygium aromaticum, Lavang, Lan, Long, Laung, Rung, Laving, Karampu, Karayampoovu, Grampu, Labanga, Kirambu Tailam, Lavangalu, Qarnfu, Bhadrasriya, Devakusuma, Devapuspa, Haricandana, Karampu, Lavanga, Lavangaka, Lavangam, Varala, Luvang
What is the source of Clove?
Plant Based
Benefits of Clove
Modern Science View
Clove is known for its sexual enhancing activity and is used to reduce the risk of male sexual disorders. Animal studies suggest that Clove increases the erection time thereby improving the sexual performance[5][12][13].
Ayurvedic View
Clove helps to improve premature ejaculation due to its Vajikarana property which helps to increase sexual activity.
Tips:
1. Take ¼ teaspoon of Clove churna.
2. Take it with mishri or honey, preferably after meals.
Tips:
1. Take ¼ teaspoon of Clove churna.
2. Take it with mishri or honey, preferably after meals.
Modern Science View
Eugenol and flavonoids present in Clove possess anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial activity and inhibits the growth of bacteria, virus and yeast. It also acts as an expectorant and helps in expelling mucus from the respiratory passage. This reduces inflammations and helps in managing cough[2][5].
Tip:
1. Take 1/4 gm of Clove powder.
2. Boil it in 125ml water till the volume reduces to 1/4th.
3. Strain the solution and consume when it is still warm[14].
Tip:
1. Take 1/4 gm of Clove powder.
2. Boil it in 125ml water till the volume reduces to 1/4th.
3. Strain the solution and consume when it is still warm[14].
Ayurvedic View
Clove gives relief in case of cough as it acts as an expectorant and has antimicrobial activity due to its Kapha and Pitta balancing properties.
Ayurvedic View
Clove improves digestion and reduces the risk of formation of gas due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties.
Tip:
Add 2 to 3 whole cloves to rice or in your curries while cooking.
Tip:
Add 2 to 3 whole cloves to rice or in your curries while cooking.
Modern Science View
Clove might help in digestion and is useful in relieving the symptoms of gastric irritability and vomiting[2][5].
Ayurvedic View
Clove helps to control vomiting and nausea as it improves digestion and reduces gastric irritability by creating a soothing effect due its Sita (cold) and Pitta balancing properties.
Tips:
1. Chew 1-2 Cloves whenever you get the feeling of nausea and vomiting.
2. Or you can use a few Cloves to make a cup of tea.
3. Drink this tea 1-2 times a day to control vomiting.
Tips:
1. Chew 1-2 Cloves whenever you get the feeling of nausea and vomiting.
2. Or you can use a few Cloves to make a cup of tea.
3. Drink this tea 1-2 times a day to control vomiting.
Modern Science View
Clove oil might help in digestion as it has a germicidal effect against various bacteria like E.coli. It helps in the elimination of parasites and controls loose motions and indigestion. It is also useful in relieving the symptoms of diarrhea, gastric irritability and vomiting[2][5].
Ayurvedic View
Clove helps to control diarrhea as it helps to calm the digestive tract due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties which also helps to reduce Ama and make the stool thick.
Tips:
1. Take 4 cups of water.
2. Add 1/2 teaspoon Clove.
3. Boil for 10-15 minutes.
4. Let it cool to room temperature and then add 1 teaspoon honey.
5. Drink it twice a day.
Tips:
1. Take 4 cups of water.
2. Add 1/2 teaspoon Clove.
3. Boil for 10-15 minutes.
4. Let it cool to room temperature and then add 1 teaspoon honey.
5. Drink it twice a day.
How effective is Clove?
Likely effective
Premature ejaculation
Insufficient evidence
Cough, Diarrhea, Flatulence (gas formation), Hernia, Local anesthesia (Numb tissues in a specific area), Nausea, Vomiting
Precautions when using Clove
Advice from Experts
Modern Science View
Eugenol in Clove might slow blood clotting, therefore may increase the risk of bleeding during and after surgery. So it is advisable to stop taking Cloves at least 2 weeks before the scheduled surgery[5][8].
Ayurvedic View
Use Clove powder or oil with honey or any other sweetener due to its strong Katu (pungent) taste.
Allergy
Modern Science View
It is advisable to use Clove under doctor's supervision if you are allergic to Clove or its constituents[8].
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
Due to the lack of scientific evidence, avoid the medicinal use of Clove during breastfeeding[5][8].
Other Interaction
Modern Science View
As per a few animal studies, Clove might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with herbs and supplements like Ginkgo biloba, garlic and saw palmetto[8].
Patients with diabetes
Modern Science View
Clove may lower blood glucose levels in people with diabetes. So it is generally advisable to monitor the blood glucose level regularly if you are taking Clove along with other anti-diabetic drugs[8].
Patients with liver disease
Modern Science View
Avoid Clove in case of liver disorders[8].
Pregnancy
Modern Science View
Due to lack of scientific evidence, avoid the medicinal use of
Clove during pregnancy[5][8].
Clove during pregnancy[5][8].
Side Effects
Important
Modern Science View
1. Burning sensation in the stomach
2. Vomiting
3. Sore throat
4. Sedation
5. Difficulty in breathing[8]
2. Vomiting
3. Sore throat
4. Sedation
5. Difficulty in breathing[8]
Recommended Dosage of Clove
- Clove Churna - 1/4 teaspoon twice a day.
- Clove Oil - 1-2 drops twice a day
How to use Clove
1. Clove Churna
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon of Clove churna.
b. Take it with mishri or honey, preferably after meals.
3. Clove Oil
a. Take 1-2 drops of Clove oil.
b. Mix it with honey and take after meals.
3. Clove flavored Rice
a. Take 2 cups of rice.
b. Soak them in 3 cups of water for 30 minutes.
c. Now add 5-6 Cloves and boil in 3 cups of water for 10 minutes.
d. Now add the soaked rice in the Clove water and cook well[2].
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon of Clove churna.
b. Take it with mishri or honey, preferably after meals.
3. Clove Oil
a. Take 1-2 drops of Clove oil.
b. Mix it with honey and take after meals.
3. Clove flavored Rice
a. Take 2 cups of rice.
b. Soak them in 3 cups of water for 30 minutes.
c. Now add 5-6 Cloves and boil in 3 cups of water for 10 minutes.
d. Now add the soaked rice in the Clove water and cook well[2].
Benefits of Clove
Modern Science View
Applying a cream containing Clove oil to the skin of the penis might help improve premature ejaculation[5][14].
Ayurvedic View
Clove helps to improve premature ejaculation due to its Vajikarana (aphrodisiac) property. Thereby helps to increase the sexual activity.
Modern Science View
Clove might be useful in case of chronic anal fissures. Applying topical cream containing Clove oil significantly reduces the resting anal pressure in patients suffering from chronic anal fissure[5][10][11].
Ayurvedic View
Clove helps to reduce the risk of anal fissure because of its Ropan (healing) property.
Ayurvedic View
Clove helps to reduce pain and inflammation in the mouth due to its healing effect. This is attributed to its Katu (pungent), Tikta (bitter) and Sita (cold) properties.
Tip:
1. Take 2-5 drops of Clove oil and mix with 1 teaspoon of Coconut oil.
2. Soak a cotton ball in it.
3. Gently swipe the ball around the affected area.
4. Repeat it once a day.
Tip:
1. Take 2-5 drops of Clove oil and mix with 1 teaspoon of Coconut oil.
2. Soak a cotton ball in it.
3. Gently swipe the ball around the affected area.
4. Repeat it once a day.
Modern Science View
Eugenol present in Clove has antinociceptive effect which helps in inhibiting the painful sensory nerves and thus helps in managing toothache[4][5].
Ayurvedic View
Clove gives relief in case of toothache and also reduces the risk of various oral infections due its Katu (Pungent) and Tikta (bitter) property.
Tip:
1. Place a whole Clove in your mouth or near the painful tooth.
2. Bite slowly to release the oil and do not swallow.
3. Repeat this as many times as needed.
Tip:
1. Place a whole Clove in your mouth or near the painful tooth.
2. Bite slowly to release the oil and do not swallow.
3. Repeat this as many times as needed.
How effective is Clove?
Likely effective
Premature ejaculation
Insufficient evidence
Anal fissure, Dental plaque, Dry socket, Mouth ulcers, Toothache
FAQs about Clove benefits
Precautions when using Clove
Advice from Experts
Important
Modern Science View
Avoid the direct application of undiluted Clove oil as it can burn and damage the skin or the area of application[8].
Allergy
Modern Science View
Apply Clove oil or powder to a small area first to test for possible allergic reactions. People who are allergic or hypersensitive to Clove or its constituent Eugenol should avoid its use on the skin[8].
Ayurvedic View
1. Clove powder or oil should be used with honey if your skin is hypersensitive.
2. Clove oil should not be applied directly to the delicate skin area as it has a strong nature due to its Katu (Pungent) and Tikta properties.
2. Clove oil should not be applied directly to the delicate skin area as it has a strong nature due to its Katu (Pungent) and Tikta properties.
Other Interaction
Modern Science View
Eugenol in Clove may reduce the ability to react to painful stimulus. Therefore, its use should be avoided with other numbing or pain-reducing agents[8].
Side Effects
Important
Modern Science View
1. Burning
2. Damage to the gums and skin
3. Higher risk of cavities
4. Sore lips[5][8]
2. Damage to the gums and skin
3. Higher risk of cavities
4. Sore lips[5][8]
Recommended Dosage of Clove
- Clove Oil - 1-2 drops or as per your requirement.
- Clove Powder - ½-½ teaspoon or as per your requirement.
How to use Clove
1. Clove Powder
a. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Clove powder.
b. Mix it with honey and apply on the skin.
c. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
d. Wash with lukewarm water.
e. Repeat once a week to control pimples[7].
2. Clove Oil
A. For pimples
a. Mix 2-5 drops of Clove oil with 1 teaspoon water.
b. Apply on the affected areas with the help of a cotton swab before going to bed at night.
c. Wash with lukewarm water in the morning to manage painful pimples[7].
B. For toothache
a. Put 2-4 drops of Clove oil onto a cotton ball.
b. Now place this cotton ball on the affected area and keep it for 30-40 minutes.
c. Repeat 1-2 times a day to get relief from toothache[9].
a. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Clove powder.
b. Mix it with honey and apply on the skin.
c. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
d. Wash with lukewarm water.
e. Repeat once a week to control pimples[7].
2. Clove Oil
A. For pimples
a. Mix 2-5 drops of Clove oil with 1 teaspoon water.
b. Apply on the affected areas with the help of a cotton swab before going to bed at night.
c. Wash with lukewarm water in the morning to manage painful pimples[7].
B. For toothache
a. Put 2-4 drops of Clove oil onto a cotton ball.
b. Now place this cotton ball on the affected area and keep it for 30-40 minutes.
c. Repeat 1-2 times a day to get relief from toothache[9].
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Some of the best brands of Clove oil in India are:
1. Dabur Clove oil
2. Cinnamon Essential Clove oil
3. Khadi Clove oil
4. Allin Exporters Clove Bud Essential Oil
5. SSCP Clove Oil Pure & Natural
6. Deve Herbes Pure Clove Oil
7. Purra Clove Leaf Oil
1. Dabur Clove oil
2. Cinnamon Essential Clove oil
3. Khadi Clove oil
4. Allin Exporters Clove Bud Essential Oil
5. SSCP Clove Oil Pure & Natural
6. Deve Herbes Pure Clove Oil
7. Purra Clove Leaf Oil
Modern Science View
To make Clove oil at home:
1. Put 1 teaspoon of whole Cloves in a pan over medium heat and saute for a few minutes.
2. Collect the Cloves in a mortar and pestle.
3. Add 1 teaspoon of olive into it and crush the Cloves.
4. You can dip a cotton bud into the oil and use directly for toothache or sore gums.
5. You can also pour the oil in a dark-glass bottle and store at room temperature.
1. Put 1 teaspoon of whole Cloves in a pan over medium heat and saute for a few minutes.
2. Collect the Cloves in a mortar and pestle.
3. Add 1 teaspoon of olive into it and crush the Cloves.
4. You can dip a cotton bud into the oil and use directly for toothache or sore gums.
5. You can also pour the oil in a dark-glass bottle and store at room temperature.
Modern Science View
Clove oil has potent antimicrobial, antioxidant and anesthetic properties that can be used in various ways to manage Scabies. It is important to use it carefully and can cause harm if not diluted with a carrier oil or cream. Some ways in which it can used are:
1. Add a drop of Clove oil to a handful of moisturizer/ cream and apply to the affected area.
2. Add 5-6 drops of Clove oil to warm bath water and soak in this water for about 20 minutes.
3. Combine 10 drops of Clove oil with 1 teaspoon of honey and 1 teaspoon of coconut oil. Rub it onto the affected area twice a day.
1. Add a drop of Clove oil to a handful of moisturizer/ cream and apply to the affected area.
2. Add 5-6 drops of Clove oil to warm bath water and soak in this water for about 20 minutes.
3. Combine 10 drops of Clove oil with 1 teaspoon of honey and 1 teaspoon of coconut oil. Rub it onto the affected area twice a day.
Modern Science View
Yes, Cloves helps in managing cough due to its anti-inflammatory property. It also has anti-microbial activity and inhibits the growth of bacteria and virus. Cloves also act as an expectorant that helps in expelling mucus secretions. Thereby, reducing inflammations and cough[2].
Tip:
Chew 1-2 Clove with salt at night before going to bed.
Tip:
Chew 1-2 Clove with salt at night before going to bed.
Modern Science View
Yes, Cloves help in case of diarrhea as it has germicidal (substance that kills germs) effect. It helps in the elimination of parasites and controls loose motions and indigestion. It is also useful in relieving the symptoms of diarrhea[2].
Tip:
Mix 2-3 drops of Clove oil in water and consume after a light meal.
Tip:
Mix 2-3 drops of Clove oil in water and consume after a light meal.
Modern Science View
Yes, Cloves might help control acne. It has antibacterial property which effectively kill cells and biofilms of bacteria S.aures which causes acne[6].
Tip:
a. Take 2-3 drops of Clove oil and mix with 2 teaspoons of raw honey.
b. Apply on the affected areas and keep for 10-15 minutes.
c. Wash your face with lukewarm water.
Tip:
a. Take 2-3 drops of Clove oil and mix with 2 teaspoons of raw honey.
b. Apply on the affected areas and keep for 10-15 minutes.
c. Wash your face with lukewarm water.
Modern Science View
Eugenol present in Clove has immunomodulatory (modifies the function of the immune system) property. It is known for suppressing the effect of drugs in the body and helps in strengthening the immune system[4].
Modern Science View
Yes, Clove is good for diabetes patients. Clove has anti-diabetic effect. This is due to the presence of eugenol which lowers the blood glucose level. It also acts like insulin and inhibits the activity of certain enzymes (phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) and glucose 6-phosphatase) which are known to produce glucose[2].
This in turn helps in reducing the level of glucose in the blood.
This in turn helps in reducing the level of glucose in the blood.
Modern Science View
Yes, Clove might help reduce the risk of cancer. It has antioxidant property which inhibits cell death (apoptosis).
Also, Eugenol present in Clove helps in minimizing the harmful effects of environmental wastes that can cause cancer of the digestive system[2].
Also, Eugenol present in Clove helps in minimizing the harmful effects of environmental wastes that can cause cancer of the digestive system[2].
Modern Science View
Clove oil has a number of benefits. It helps manage digestion and diarrhea due to its germicidal effect against various bacteria like E.coli, it also helps relieve toothache, is a good mosquito repellent and reduces the resting anal pressure in patients suffering from chronic anal fissure. It has antibacterial property due to which it can be applied externally to control acne and on hair to remove lice. Clove oil can also be applied to the skin of the penis which might help improve premature ejaculation[2][4-7][10][11][14].
Ayurvedic View
Clove oil has the property of Deepan and Pachan (appetizer and digestive) due to which it helps to improve your digestion. It also balances Vata and Kapha Dosha which helps in relieving pain, especially toothache. It can also be used as a mouthwash to treat bad breath.
Modern Science View
Clove water has potent antimicrobial activity. Drinking a few teaspoons of Clove water every morning helps strengthen the immune system and prevents infections. It also helps remove mucus and provides relief from cough[15][16].
Ayurvedic View
Clove water helps improve digestion and also helps to detoxify the body internally due to its Shodhan (detoxification) property. It even improves the immune system due to it’s Rasayana (rejuvenating) property.
Modern Science View
Yes, Clove has antibacterial property and effectively kill cells and biofilms of bacteria S.aureus which causes acne[6].
Ayurvedic View
Clove oil helps to control acne as a result of its antimicrobial effect. This is due to its Katu (Pungent) and Tikta (bitter) properties. Clove also improves wound healing due to its Ropan (healing) property.
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 drops of Clove oil and mix with 1 teaspoon honey.
2. Apply this on the face and gently massage with your fingertips.
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 drops of Clove oil and mix with 1 teaspoon honey.
2. Apply this on the face and gently massage with your fingertips.
Modern Science View
Yes, Clove oil is good for hair when massaged well on the scalp. It improves hair growth by increasing blood circulation to the roots. It also has insecticidal activity due to its chemical constituents like eugenol, isoeugenol and methyl eugenol. These chemical constituents help in removing lice[2][7].
Ayurvedic View
Clove helps to prevent hair loss as a result of dandruff and dryness. This is due to its Snigdha (oily) and Katu (pungent) nature. Clove also promotes hair growth due to its Ropan (healing) property.
References
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- Alqareer A, Alyahya A, Andersson L.The effect of clove and benzocaine versus placebo as topical anesthetics.J Dent. 2006;34(10):747-50.
- Elwakeel HA, Moneim HA, Farid M, et al. Clove oil cream: a new effective treatment for chronic anal fissure. Colorectal Dis.2007;9(6):549-52.
- Nelson RL, Thomas K, Morgan J, et al. Non surgical therapy for anal fissure. Cochrane Database Syst Rev.2012;15(2).
- Tajuddin, Ahmad S, Latif A, et al. Effect of 50% ethanolic extract of Syzygium aromaticum (L.) Merr. & Perry. (clove) on sexual behaviour of normal male rats. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine.2004;4:17.
- Mishra RK, Singh SK. Reproductive effects of lipid soluble components of Syzygium aromaticum flower bud in male mice. Journal of Ayurveda & Integrative Medicine.2013;4(2):94-98.
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- Nzeako BC, Al-Kharousi ZS, Al-Mahrooqui Z.Antimicrobial activities of clove and thyme extracts.Sultan Qaboos Univ Med J.2006;6(1):33–39.
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Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.