Surprising Health Benefits of Cloves

Cloves are a versatile spice that adds flavor while also providing health benefits. They are high in antioxidants, may help regulate blood sugar, kill bacteria, and more.

Cloves are best known as a sweet and aromatic spice, but they have also been used in traditional medicine.

In fact, researchTrusted Source suggests that the compounds in cloves may have several health benefits, including supporting liver health and helping stabilize blood sugar levels.

Here are 8 reasons why you should include cloves in your diet and lifestyle.

•Cloves contain fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

; Manganese is an essential mineralTrusted Source for maintaining brain function and building strong bones.

•May help protect against cancer

Some research suggests that the clove oil might help protect against cancer.

Specifically, eugenol has been shownTrusted Source to have anticancer properties. Specifically, test-tube researchTrusted Source suggests eugenol promotes cell death in breast cancer cells.

However, as stated, eugenol is toxic in high amounts, and overdosing on clove oilTrusted Source may cause liver damage, especially in children. Further research is needed to determine how lower amounts may affect humans.

•Can kill bacteria

Cloves have been shownTrusted Source to have antimicrobial properties, meaning they can help stop the growth of microorganisms like bacteria.

What’s more, in combination with regular brushing and proper oral hygiene, the antibacterial effects of cloves may even benefit your oral health.

•May help regulate blood sugar

The compounds found in cloves may help keep blood sugar under control. For example, in a 2019 studyTrusted Source, people with and without prediabetes who took 250 milligrams (mg) of clove extract daily for 30 days showed significantly less blood glucose after meals.

In another animal study, nigricin, a compound found in cloves, was foundTrusted Source to increase the uptake of sugar from the blood into cells, increase the secretion of insulin, and improve the function of cells that produce insulin in mice.

In combination with a balanced diet, cloves may help keep your blood sugar levels in check, though more research on humans is needed to confirm this.

•May reduce stomach ulcers

Some animal researchTrusted Source indicates that eugenol could help treat stomach ulcers.

Also known as peptic ulcers, stomach ulcers are painful sores that form in the lining of the stomach, duodenum, or esophagus.

Test tube research also suggests that clove oil may also have an effect against Helicobacter pylori (H. Pylori), a bacteria that can trigger stomach problems such as ulcers and even cancer.

Though the anti-ulcer effects of cloves and their compounds may be promising, further studies are needed on their effects in humans

•Promotes Oral Health

Cloves have been used for centuries as a remedy for toothache and other dental issues. Eugenol acts as a natural anaesthetic, providing relief from dental pain and discomfort. This benefit is particularly significant for women, who may experience increased dental sensitivity due to hormonal changes.

Fights oral bacteria

The antibacterial properties of cloves are effective in combating oral pathogens, reducing the risk of oral infections, gum disease, and bad breath. This aspect of clove's medicinal properties promotes better oral health for women, contributing to their overall health and well-being.

•Reduces Inflammation and Pain

Cloves contain compounds that have potent anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce the body's inflammatory response. This can be particularly beneficial for women suffering from chronic inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. Dr. Naomi Jackson, a rheumatologist, highlights, "The eugenol in cloves has been shown to inhibit enzymes that trigger inflammation, offering a natural solution for managing conditions like arthritis."

Pain relief for menstrual cramps

The anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of cloves can also offer relief from menstrual cramps, a common issue for many women. By reducing inflammation and acting as a natural pain reliever, cloves can help alleviate the discomfort associated with menstrual periods. Dr. Lisa Hammond, a gynaecologist, recommends, "A warm tea infused with cloves can be a comforting and effective remedy for women experiencing menstrual pain."

•Enhances Sexual Health

Cloves have been traditionally valued for their aphrodisiac properties, which can enhance sexual health and libido. The spice stimulates blood flow and body temperature, increasing sexual desire and performance. Dr. Simon Richards, a sexual health expert, notes, "Cloves can act as a natural aphrodisiac, potentially improving sexual health and intimacy for women."

Cloves offer notable sexual benefits, particularly for women looking to achieve sexual benefits to enhance their sexual health and sexual performance. Incorporating cloves into the diet, such as by drinking clove water, can have a positive impact on sexual performance. The spice is known for increasing blood flow and body temperature, which can improve overall sexual experience. Drinking clove water regularly, whether using whole cloves or ground cloves, is a simple natural method to achieve these sexual benefits. This approach not only supports sexual health but also integrates easily into daily routines, offering a discreet and holistic way to boost sexual vitality and wellness.

Benefits for reproductive health

Beyond their aphrodisiac properties, cloves offer benefits for reproductive health, including hormone regulation and reduced inflammation in reproductive tissues. This can aid in alleviating menstrual pain and improving fertility and other common questions about vaginal health. "The holistic impact of cloves on reproductive health can be significant for women," says Dr. Emily Foster, a reproductive health specialist.

•Promotes Healthy Skin

The antioxidants in cloves combat free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and preventing premature ageing of the skin, using whole or ground cloves may help improve overall skin health. Regular inclusion of cloves in the diet can result in clearer, more youthful skin. Dermatologist Dr. Sarah Lee states, "The antioxidant properties of cloves are beneficial for maintaining healthy, resilient skin."

Treatment for skin conditions

Cloves possess antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help in treating skin conditions like acne, reducing inflammation, and promoting healing. "Applying clove-infused products can reduce the severity of skin conditions, promoting a healthy skin barrier," advises Dr. Lee.