Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum) are more than just a fragrant spice; they are a powerful medicinal ingredient used for centuries in Indian Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Modern research supports their anti-viral, antioxidant, antimicrobial, pain relief, and anti-inflammatory properties, making them a valuable addition to a health-conscious diet and pain management.
In this article, we will explore:
✅ Latest scientific evidence supporting the health benefits of cloves.
✅ How Ayurveda and TCM have used cloves for centuries.
✅ 10 easy ways to include cloves in your daily routine.
Health Benefits of Cloves: What Science Says
1. Antiviral Properties of Cloves 🦠
Cloves have been studied for their antiviral properties, particularly against RSV and even SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19). Compounds in cloves potentially associated with anti-viral properties include phenolic compounds and flavonoids.
📌 Scientific Evidence:
- A recent in-vitro study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that water extracts of clove inhibited the ACE2 receptor binding of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (the mechanism through which the virus enters human cells), suggesting a potential role in reducing viral infection (source).
- Another study investigated the antiviral activity of water extracts of clove against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and found that clove extract exhibited potent virucidal properties, significantly reducing RSV infection in HEp-2 cells by directly targeting and inactivating free viral particles before cell attachment (source).
✅ Benefit: Cloves may reduce the risk of viral infections including potentially RSV and COVID-19.
2. Powerful Antioxidant Effects 🛡️
Cloves are one of the richest sources of antioxidants, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and free radical damage.
📌 Scientific Evidence:
- A 2005 study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that cloves have one of the highest antioxidant activities among commonly used spices due their phenolic compounds (source).
- A recent 2022 study found that water extracts of clove exhibits strong antioxidant properties due to its high polyphenol and flavonoid content highlighting its potential to reduce oxidative stress and support health applications (source).
✅ Benefit: Cloves may help combat oxidative stress, which is linked to chronic diseases such as neurodegenerative disorders, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and diabetes.
3. Natural Antimicrobial 🦠
Cloves have strong antimicrobial properties, helping fight infections of bacteria.
📌 Scientific Evidence:
- A 2012 study published in the Brazilian Journal of Microbiology found that clove essential oil exhibited potent antibacterial effects against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, as well as yeast (source).
- A study in 2021 published in Dentistry Open Journal found that both clove essential oil and clove water extract exhibited significant antibacterial activity against oral pathogens responsible for dental caries and various fungal species (source).
✅ Benefit: Supports oral health, prevents bacterial infections.
4. Pain Relief & Anti-Inflammatory Properties 🌿
Cloves contain eugenol, a natural compound with analgesic (pain-relieving) and anti-inflammatory effects.
📌 Scientific Evidence:
- A 2006 clinical study in the Journal of Dentistry found that clove gel was as effective as benzocaine in relieving tooth pain (source).
- A small 2021 study Indonesia found the use of clove compress can significantly reduced rheumatoid arthritis pain in elderly individuals (source).
✅ Benefit: Provides natural pain relief for toothaches, joint pain, and rheumatoid arthritis.
5. Regulates Blood Sugar & Supports Metabolism 🩸
Cloves may help manage blood sugar levels, making them potentially helpful to prevent and manage diabetes or insulin resistance.
📌 Scientific Evidence:
- A small study in 2019 found that a water/ethanol extract of cloves improved glucose metabolism in humans. While larger well-controlled clinical trials are needed to confirm these results it shows potential for clove extracts maintaining healthy glucose metabolism (source)
✅ Benefit: Supports healthy blood sugar levels
Traditional Uses of Cloves in Indian & Chinese Medicine
1. Cloves in Ayurveda (Indian Medicine) 🇮🇳
In Ayurveda, cloves are considered a warming spice that helps balance Kapha and Vata doshas.
📌 Traditional Uses:
✔️ Digestive Health: Used to relieve bloating, indigestion, and nausea.
✔️ Toothache Relief: Clove oil is applied for toothaches and gum pain.
✔️ Respiratory Support: Cloves are included in herbal kadhas (medicinal teas) for colds and coughs.
✔️ Pain Relief: Used in massage oils for joint and muscle pain.
2. Cloves in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) 🇨🇳
In TCM, cloves (Ding Xiang, 丁香) are used to warm the body, aid digestion, and improve circulation.
📌 Traditional Uses:
✔️ Stimulates digestion: Used for stomach pain, nausea, and bloating.
✔️ Boosts energy: Considered a Kidney Yang tonic for fatigue.
✔️ Clears phlegm: Helps treat chronic coughs and respiratory infections.
✔️ Aphrodisiac: Used to support reproductive health and sexual vitality.
10 Easy Ways to Add Cloves to Your Diet
1️⃣ Clove Tea ☕ – Steep 2–3 whole cloves in hot water.
2️⃣ Golden Milk 🥛 – Add clove powder with turmeric and cinnamon.
3️⃣ Curries & Stews 🍛 – Use whole cloves in soups and stews.
4️⃣ Clove-Infused Honey 🍯 – Soak cloves in honey.
5️⃣ Clove Water 💧 – Soak 2–3 cloves in water overnight.
6️⃣ Smoothies 🥤 – Blend a pinch of ground cloves with your favorite smoothie fruits.
7️⃣ Coffee or Chai ☕ – Add clove powder to coffee or chai.
8️⃣ Broth 🍜 – Toss whole cloves into homemade stock.
9️⃣ Baked Goods 🍪 – Add clove powder to cookies and muffins.
🔟 Chew a Whole Clove 🦷 – Freshens breath and relieves dental pain.
Final Thoughts
Cloves are an ancient superfood with scientifically proven health benefits. Whether used in traditional medicine, cooking, or oral care, they are a natural remedy for preventing viral and bacterial infections, supporting immunity, pain relief, and more.
Try adding cloves to your daily routine and experience their powerful healing properties!
Need to replenish your supply of cloves? Check out McCormick Gourmet Whole Cloves – the taste you can trust.
We hope you love the products we recommend. Just so you know we may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. Thank-you if you use our links we really appreciate it! As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Zen Life Reviews 
Leave a comment