20 Genius Ways to Use Cloves for Your Health — Why They Work & How to Use Them
Cloves may seem like a simple kitchen spice, but their history in traditional wellness stretches back thousands of years. From ancient Asian practices to Middle Eastern home remedies, cloves have long been valued for their warm aroma, comforting properties, and surprisingly versatile benefits. What makes them truly unique is their natural compound eugenol, a powerful antioxidant that gives cloves their distinctive scent and many of their supportive effects.
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20 Genius Ways to Use Cloves for Your Health — Why They Work & How to Use Them
Did you know cloves have been used for centuries in traditional wellness systems for digestion, oral care, soothing discomfort, and overall revitalization? Their secret lies in eugenol, a natural compound with antioxidant and aromatic properties that make cloves one of the most versatile spices in your kitchen.
Before we dive in, rate yourself:
On a scale of 1–10, how energized and comfortable do your mouth and digestion feel right now?
Hold that number—you may discover some helpful new habits today.
Why Cloves Deserve a Spot in Modern Wellness
Many adults notice changes in oral comfort, digestion, sleep, or energy after their mid-30s. While cloves aren’t a cure or medical treatment, they can be a supportive part of everyday self-care thanks to their:
pleasant warming aroma
traditional use for soothing minor discomfort
natural antimicrobial and antioxidant compounds
versatility in teas, oils, and cooking
Think of cloves as a natural multi-tool—not magic, but useful in many small, supportive ways.
Way 1: Toothache Comfort Support
Clove oil has long been used traditionally to help temporarily numb minor oral discomfort thanks to its warming, soothing eugenol content.
How to use:
Dilute 1 drop of clove oil in a teaspoon of carrier oil (olive or coconut). Dab gently on the gum externally.
(Not a substitute for dental care.)
Way 2: Gum Soother
Warm clove-infused water is often used as a gentle mouth rinse to help freshen breath and support gum comfort.
How to use:
Simmer 3–4 cloves in a cup of water for 5 minutes. Cool completely and swish for 30 seconds.
(Don’t swallow clove rinse.)
Way 3: Bloat Relief Support
Cloves are used traditionally after meals to help ease post-meal heaviness or gas.
How to use:
Chew 1–2 cloves after meals or drink clove tea.
Way 4: Natural Breath Freshener
Chewing cloves can help freshen breath because of their strong aroma and natural compounds.
How to use:
Chew 1–2 cloves for 1 minute, then discard.
Way 5: Immune-Friendly Spice
Cloves contain antioxidants, which support overall wellness and healthy immune function.
How to use:
Add a pinch of ground cloves to oatmeal, smoothies, or tea.
Way 6: Joint Comfort Massage Oil
Clove oil blends are used in aromatherapy for warming massages.
How to use:
Mix 1 drop clove essential oil with 1 tbsp carrier oil. Massage gently into the area.
(Essential oils must be diluted.)
Way 7: Skin Support for Occasional Blemishes
Diluted clove oil is sometimes used for its antimicrobial properties on occasional spots.
How to use:
1 drop clove oil + 1 tsp carrier oil, dab lightly.
(Never use undiluted oil on skin.)
Way 8: Bedtime Relaxation Ritual
Warm clove tea with ginger or cinnamon can make a cozy, calming nighttime drink.
How to use:
Simmer 2–3 cloves in water for 7 minutes. Add honey if desired.
Way 9: Balanced Cooking Ingredient
Using cloves in cooking may help support balanced eating habits through their natural aroma and flavor.
How to use:
Add to rice, curries, stews, baked goods, or chai.
Way 10: Hair & Scalp Refresh
Clove-infused water is used traditionally as a scalp rinse for a refreshing feel.
How to use:
Simmer 5 cloves in 1 cup water, cool, then rinse over scalp before shampooing.
Way 11: General Wellness Tea
Clove tea can offer warmth and digestive comfort.
How to use:
Steep 3–4 cloves with cinnamon or ginger.
Way 12: Aromatherapy for a Calm Environment
The scent of clove can feel grounding and cozy.
How to use:
Diffuse 1–2 drops clove essential oil in a diffuser (never directly inhale steam from boiling oil).
Way 13: Heart-Healthy Cooking (Indirect Support)
Cloves can support healthy cooking habits by enhancing flavor—helpful for reducing added salt or sugar.
How to use:
Add to soups, meats, sauces, or mulled drinks.
Way
14: DIY Facial Steam
A light clove steam may help open pores and refresh the face.
How to use:
Add 1–2 cloves to a bowl of hot water; keep face 8–10 inches away.
Way 15: Mild Nausea Support
Clove tea is used traditionally for queasy stomachs.
How to use:
Sip slowly from a warm cup infused with 2–3 cloves.
Way 16: Foot or Nail Soak Add-In
Clove-infused water can be added to foot baths for a refreshing soak.
How to use:
Add 5–7 boiled cloves to a basin of warm water.
Way 17: Midday Energy Aroma Boost
The warm scent of cloves can help invigorate the senses.
How to use:
Diffuse 1 drop of clove oil with citrus or peppermint oil.
Way 18: Soothing Winter Tea for the Throat
Clove honey tea can feel comforting during cold weather.
How to use:
Stir a bit of honey into clove tea and sip warm.
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