Start Chewing on Cloves and Watch What Happens: A Hidden Gem of Natural Health
Cloves may be small, but their power is immense. Often tucked away in spice racks and used in seasonal recipes, cloves (Syzygium aromaticum) are one of the most potent natural remedies known to traditional medicine. For centuries, cultures around the world have harnessed their benefits — from pain relief and immune support to digestion and oral health.
But one practice in particular is making a quiet comeback: chewing on whole cloves. This simple act has surprising health advantages, some of which might just transform your daily wellness routine.
In this article, we’ll explore what happens when you start chewing on cloves, how to do it safely, and the many ways they can support your health — backed by traditional wisdom and scientific research.
What Are Cloves?
Cloves are the dried flower buds of the clove tree, native to the Maluku Islands of Indonesia. They belong to the myrtle family and are rich in essential oils, the most important being eugenol — a compound responsible for most of their therapeutic effects.
Cloves are known for their warm, slightly sweet, and pungent aroma, and while they are most commonly used as a spice in cooking and baking, chewing whole cloves unlocks powerful medicinal properties.
Top 12 Health Benefits of Chewing Cloves
1. Natural Pain Relief
Chewing on cloves can act as a natural analgesic. Eugenol has been shown to reduce pain by numbing nerves, especially effective for:
- Toothaches
- Sore throats
- Headaches
- Joint pain
It’s no surprise that clove oil is often used in dentistry for temporary pain relief.
2. Freshens Breath Instantly
Cloves have natural antimicrobial properties that kill bacteria in the mouth — one of the root causes of bad breath (halitosis). Chewing a clove after meals or when you wake up can refresh your breath better than many mints or gums.
3. Improves Digestion
In traditional Ayurveda and Chinese medicine, cloves are considered digestive fire starters. Chewing them helps:
- Stimulate the production of saliva and gastric juices
- Reduce bloating and flatulence
- Relieve nausea and indigestion
Cloves also stimulate peristalsis, aiding smooth bowel movements.
4. Boosts Immunity
Cloves are loaded with antioxidants that help strengthen the immune system. The compound eugenol has been studied for its:
- Antibacterial
- Antiviral
- Antifungal
- Anti-inflammatory
Chewing cloves daily helps your body fight off infections naturally.
5. Supports Liver Detox
Studies suggest that eugenol protects liver cells by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. Over time, chewing cloves may support liver function and help your body detox more efficiently.
6. Regulates Blood Sugar
For people with insulin resistance or prediabetes, cloves may help regulate blood sugar levels. Research has shown that they:
- Increase insulin sensitivity
- Help lower blood glucose
- May improve pancreatic function
Chewing cloves before or after a meal can assist in maintaining stable glucose levels.
7. Relieves Respiratory Issues
Clove vapors and their oils are natural expectorants. Chewing on cloves helps open airways and reduce coughing by:
- Loosening mucus
- Fighting respiratory bacteria
- Soothing throat irritation
They are especially helpful for seasonal allergies, colds, and asthma symptoms.
8. May Improve Oral Health
Cloves are an excellent remedy for several dental issues, thanks to their:
- Anti-inflammatory properties (for gum pain)
- Antibacterial action (reducing oral infections)
- Cavity-fighting ability (preventing plaque and tartar buildup)
Chewing on cloves gently massages the gums and protects enamel.
9. Reduces Inflammation
Eugenol in cloves is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent. It can help relieve symptoms of:
- Arthritis
- Gout
- Muscle soreness
- Autoimmune conditions
Regular use may also reduce chronic inflammation linked to aging and chronic disease.
10. Aids in Weight Management
By stimulating digestion and reducing sugar cravings, cloves can help support healthy metabolism and weight control. Their spicy kick can curb appetite naturally, and they may help reduce belly bloat.
11. Enhances Skin Health
The antimicrobial effects of cloves may also benefit the skin when chewed internally or applied topically. Benefits include:
- Fewer breakouts (thanks to antibacterial activity)
- Improved skin tone due to detoxification
- Anti-aging protection from antioxidants
12. Improves Brain Function
Some preliminary research has shown that cloves may improve cognitive performance, enhance memory, and reduce oxidative stress in brain tissue. The antioxidants support overall brain health and help combat neurodegeneration.
How to Chew Cloves Correctly
While chewing cloves is safe for most people, there are a few guidelines to follow:
✅ How To:
- Take 1–2 whole cloves.
- Place them in your mouth and slowly chew.
- You may feel a tingling or numbing sensation — this is normal.
- Chew for 5–10 minutes, then spit or swallow.
You can chew them once or twice daily, preferably after meals.
Who Should Avoid Chewing Cloves?
Though cloves are safe in small amounts, some people should be cautious:
- Pregnant women should consult their doctor, as excess clove oil may stimulate uterine contractions.
- People with bleeding disorders or on blood thinners should avoid high doses.
- Avoid chewing if you have oral ulcers or very sensitive teeth.
Bonus: Clove Infused Water (An Easy Alternative)
If chewing cloves isn’t appealing, you can still enjoy the benefits by making clove water:
Simple Clove Water Recipe:
- 4–5 whole cloves
- 1 cup hot water
Steep for 10–15 minutes. Strain and sip slowly. Drink once or twice daily.
Cloves in Traditional Medicine Systems
Ayurveda:
Cloves (called Laung) are considered hot in nature. They are used to:
- Ignite digestive fire (Agni)
- Fight Vata disorders like gas and bloating
- Treat cold and flu symptoms
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM):
Used to warm the stomach and strengthen the kidneys. Cloves are seen as yang enhancers, used in cases of fatigue and weak digestion.
Scientific Studies That Support Clove Benefits
- Journal of Dentistry (2006): Found that clove oil is comparable to benzocaine for relieving tooth pain.
- Journal of Medicinal Food (2012): Showed that clove extract has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Food and Chemical Toxicology (2011): Demonstrated liver-protective effects of eugenol in animal studies.
- Journal of Natural Medicines (2015): Studied clove’s role in reducing blood sugar and supporting insulin secretion.
Conclusion: One Small Spice, Massive Benefits
Start chewing on cloves, and you might just notice a remarkable transformation in your health — fresher breath, better digestion, a stronger immune system, and less inflammation. This ancient spice holds the key to natural wellness in the most convenient form.
Whether you’re looking for a natural painkiller, immune booster, or digestive aid, chewing cloves may be the simplest daily habit you can adopt. Just a few minutes a day with this tiny spice could lead to profound benefits over time.
