11 Clove Tea Benefits
For centuries, cloves have been among the world’s most treasured spices—once worth their weight in gold and traded along ancient routes from Indonesia to Europe. While their culinary uses are well known, cloves have also held an important place in traditional medicine systems across Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.
Today, clove tea offers a simple way to access this spice’s potential health benefits. Made by steeping whole or ground cloves in hot water, this warming beverage delivers compounds that modern research is beginning to validate. This article explores 11 evidence-based benefits of clove tea, how to prepare it properly, and important safety considerations.
What Is Clove Tea?
Clove tea is an herbal infusion made from cloves, the dried flower buds of the Syzygium aromaticum tree. Native to Indonesia’s Spice Islands, clove trees now grow throughout tropical regions including Madagascar, Tanzania, and Sri Lanka. The dried buds have a distinctive nail-like shape—in fact, the name “clove” derives from the Latin word “clavus,” meaning nail.
The primary active compound in cloves is eugenol, which comprises approximately 70-90% of clove essential oil and is responsible for most of the spice’s therapeutic properties. Cloves also contain eugenol acetate, beta-caryophyllene, flavonoids, tannins, and various phenolic compounds. From a nutritional standpoint, one teaspoon of ground cloves provides over 50% of the daily recommended intake of manganese, along with smaller amounts of vitamin K, fiber, and other minerals.
It’s important to distinguish clove tea from clove essential oil. The tea delivers these compounds in a diluted, water-extracted form, making it far gentler than concentrated oil. While clove oil can be toxic when ingested improperly, clove tea consumed in moderation is generally considered safe for most adults.
11 Clove Tea Benefits: Rich in Antioxidants, Support Oral Health
Clove tea contains numerous beneficial compounds including eugenol, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and essential minerals that may offer various health benefits. However, it’s important to understand that the evidence quality varies considerably across different claimed benefits, and most scientific studies examine cloves or eugenol in general rather than clove tea specifically.
Below are 11 potential health benefits, along with clear explanations of what the scientific evidence actually demonstrates.
1. Rich in Antioxidants
Cloves rank among the most antioxidant-rich spices available, and eugenol serves as a particularly potent free radical scavenger. Research indicates that eugenol’s antioxidant effects may be approximately five times more powerful than vitamin E. Laboratory studies have demonstrated that clove compounds effectively neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress markers.
A 2021 study found that participants who consumed clove tea daily for eight weeks showed a 32% reduction in oxidative damage markers. The flavonoids, phenolic acids, and other antioxidant compounds in cloves work together to protect cells from damage that can contribute to chronic disease and accelerated aging.
Evidence level: Strong evidence from multiple laboratory studies demonstrating potent antioxidant activity; limited but promising human clinical data supporting reduced oxidative stress markers.
2. May Support Oral Health
Perhaps no traditional use of cloves is more famous than relieving toothaches. Dentists have used eugenol-based compounds for over a century, and the FDA previously recognized eugenol as an effective topical oral anesthetic. Studies show that clove compounds inhibit the growth of bacteria responsible for gum disease and cavities, including Streptococcus mutans.
Research on herbal mouthwashes containing clove, tea tree oil, and basil demonstrated significant reductions in plaque and gingivitis comparable to commercial mouthwashes. While clove tea won’t replace proper dental care, drinking it or using cooled tea as a gentle rinse may support oral hygiene between brushings.
Evidence level: Moderate evidence from clinical trials on eugenol-based dental preparations and herbal mouthwashes; long history of traditional use supported by laboratory antibacterial studies.
3. May Aid Digestive Health
Traditional medicine systems have long used cloves as a carminative—a substance that reduces gas and bloating. The bitter compounds in clove tea may stimulate digestive enzyme production, promoting more efficient breakdown of food. Some research suggests cloves have gastroprotective effects, potentially helping to thicken the protective mucus lining of the stomach.
Animal studies indicate that clove extracts may help protect against stomach ulcers by supporting the stomach’s natural defenses against acid damage. While human clinical trials are limited, the traditional use of clove tea after meals for digestive comfort has a long history across multiple cultures.
Evidence level: Limited to moderate evidence; animal studies support gastroprotective effects, but human clinical trials specifically on digestive benefits remain scarce.
4. Contains Anti-Inflammatory Compounds
Chronic inflammation underlies many modern health conditions, and cloves contain several compounds that may help address it. Eugenol has been shown to inhibit inflammatory pathways, including COX-2 and NF-κB, which are involved in pain and swelling. Beta-caryophyllene, another compound in cloves, also demonstrates anti-inflammatory properties.
Laboratory and animal studies confirm these effects, with some research suggesting clove tea consumption may help reduce systemic inflammation markers by 15-20%. While more human clinical trials are needed, the anti-inflammatory potential makes clove tea an interesting option for those seeking natural approaches to managing inflammation.
Evidence level: Moderate evidence from laboratory and animal studies demonstrating clear anti-inflammatory mechanisms; human clinical data remains limited but supportive.
5. May Help Regulate Blood Sugar
Several studies suggest cloves may benefit glucose metabolism. In a pilot study published in BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, a polyphenol-rich clove extract reduced post-meal blood sugar levels by 21.5% in healthy volunteers and 27.2% in prediabetic participants over a 30-day period. Animal studies have similarly shown that clove supplementation can lower fasting blood glucose and improve insulin sensitivity.
One notable human study found that consuming 1-3 grams of cloves daily for 30 days improved glucose, triglyceride, and cholesterol levels in people with type 2 diabetes. The mechanisms may include enhanced insulin secretion and inhibition of carbohydrate-digesting enzymes. However, this effect means people taking diabetes medications should use clove tea cautiously to avoid hypoglycemia.
Evidence level: Limited to moderate evidence; promising results from small human trials and multiple animal studies, but larger controlled clinical trials are needed to confirm benefits.
6. May Support Liver Health
The liver plays a central role in detoxification, and some research suggests cloves may offer hepatoprotective effects. Animal studies have found that eugenol can reduce signs of liver damage, including markers of liver cirrhosis and fatty liver disease. The antioxidant properties of cloves may help protect liver cells from oxidative stress.
A 2022 animal study demonstrated that clove extract improved liver damage caused by toxic substances, with eugenol appearing to play a key role. However, this benefit follows a dose-dependent pattern—while moderate consumption may support liver health, excessive intake of concentrated clove products can actually harm the liver. Moderation is essential.
Evidence level: Limited evidence primarily from animal studies showing hepatoprotective effects; no human clinical trials specifically examining clove tea and liver health.
7. Provides Antibacterial Properties
Cloves demonstrate broad-spectrum antibacterial activity that has been extensively studied in laboratory settings. Research shows clove compounds can inhibit the growth of various harmful bacteria, including food-borne pathogens like E. coli, Salmonella, Staphylococcus, and Listeria. This antibacterial activity extends to oral pathogens responsible for gum disease and tooth decay.
Test-tube studies indicate that low concentrations of eugenol can inhibit harmful Escherichia coli while having minimal impact on beneficial Lactobacillus bacteria. While drinking clove tea won’t sterilize your digestive system, the antimicrobial compounds may support a healthier bacterial balance in both the mouth and gut.
Evidence level: Moderate evidence from extensive in vitro (laboratory) studies demonstrating clear antibacterial activity; real-world benefits in humans require more research.
8. May Support Respiratory Health
Traditional medicine systems across Asia have used cloves to address respiratory complaints, including coughs, colds, and congestion. The warming nature of clove tea may help open airways, and breathing in the steam from hot clove tea has been used as a folk remedy for stuffy nasal passages. Some practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine recommend chewing cloves to ease sore throats.
The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of cloves may contribute to these respiratory benefits, though clinical research specifically on clove tea for respiratory conditions remains limited. The combination of warmth, hydration, and active compounds makes clove tea a reasonable comfort measure during cold and flu season.
Evidence level: Very limited scientific evidence; benefits are based primarily on traditional use and theoretical mechanisms from cloves’ known anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
9. May Offer Pain-Relieving Effects
Eugenol functions as a natural analgesic, which explains cloves’ traditional use for pain relief. A study involving patients who had their wisdom teeth extracted found that eugenol-based preparations performed comparably to benzocaine, a standard topical anesthetic. The numbing effect works by temporarily blocking nerve signal transmission.
Beyond toothache relief, clove tea may offer modest pain-relieving effects for headaches, muscle soreness, and joint discomfort. While the systemic effects from drinking tea are gentler than topical application, regular consumption may provide cumulative anti-inflammatory and analgesic benefits.
Evidence level: Limited to moderate evidence; clinical trials support eugenol’s topical analgesic effects, but systemic pain relief from drinking clove tea is less well-documented.
10. May Support Bone Health
Cloves are exceptionally rich in manganese, with one teaspoon providing over half the daily recommended intake. Manganese plays a crucial role in bone formation and maintaining bone mineral density. Research suggests diets rich in manganese may help prevent osteoporosis—a condition affecting approximately 43 million Americans.
Some animal studies indicate that eugenol may also have direct effects on bone tissue, potentially improving bone density. However, research specifically examining clove consumption and human bone health remains very limited. The manganese content alone, however, makes clove tea a potentially valuable addition for those concerned about bone health.
Evidence level: Very limited evidence; manganese’s role in bone health is well-established, but direct research on clove tea and bone density in humans is lacking.
11. May Promote Relaxation
The warming, aromatic nature of clove tea has made it a traditional choice for promoting calm and relaxation. Preliminary animal research suggests clove extracts may have stress-reducing effects, though human studies are lacking. The ritual of preparing and sipping a warm, fragrant beverage itself contributes to the relaxation experience.
The eugenol in cloves may have mild sedative properties, which could explain traditional uses for promoting restful sleep. While clove tea won’t replace proven treatments for anxiety or insomnia, it may serve as a pleasant addition to an evening wind-down routine.
Evidence level: Very limited scientific evidence; benefits are based primarily on traditional use, preliminary animal studies, and the general calming effects of warm herbal beverages.
How to Make Clove Tea
Preparing clove tea is straightforward. For a standard cup, add 4-5 whole cloves or 1/2 teaspoon of ground cloves to 8 ounces of boiling water. Allow the tea to steep for 10-15 minutes to fully extract the beneficial compounds. Strain before drinking.
For enhanced flavor, consider adding a cinnamon stick for warming sweetness, fresh ginger for a spicy kick, or a squeeze of lemon and drizzle of honey. Crushing whole cloves slightly before steeping helps release more eugenol into the water.
How Much Clove Tea Should You Drink?
For most healthy adults, 1-2 cups of clove tea per day is considered a reasonable amount. Using 4-5 whole cloves per cup keeps the eugenol concentration at safe levels while still delivering beneficial compounds. Drinking clove tea after meals may maximize digestive benefits, as the bitter compounds can help stimulate digestive processes when food is present.
Signs you may be consuming too much include mouth or throat irritation, digestive upset, nausea, or a burning sensation. If you experience these symptoms, reduce your intake immediately. Never exceed 2-3 cups daily, and avoid extended continuous use beyond two weeks without consulting a healthcare provider.
Potential Side Effects and Cautions
While clove tea is generally safe in moderate amounts, several important cautions apply. Eugenol has anticoagulant properties that can slow blood clotting, potentially increasing bleeding risk. People taking blood-thinning medications like warfarin should avoid clove tea or use it only under medical supervision. Stop consuming clove tea at least two weeks before any scheduled surgery.
The blood sugar-lowering effects of cloves can interact with diabetes medications, potentially causing hypoglycemia. If you take medication for diabetes, monitor your blood sugar closely and consult your doctor before adding clove tea to your routine. High doses of eugenol may cause liver stress, so those with liver disease should exercise caution.
Children are particularly sensitive to eugenol toxicity and should not consume clove tea. Pregnant women should limit consumption or avoid it entirely, as some sources indicate clove compounds may stimulate uterine contractions. People with allergies to cloves or eugenol should obviously avoid clove tea entirely.
Who Should Avoid Clove Tea?
People taking blood-thinning medications (warfarin, aspirin, or other anticoagulants) should avoid clove tea due to increased bleeding risk. Anyone scheduled for surgery should discontinue clove tea at least two weeks before the procedure. People taking diabetes medications should consult their doctor, as the combination may cause hypoglycemia. Those with liver disease, children, and pregnant or breastfeeding women should also avoid medicinal amounts of clove tea.
Takeaways
Clove tea offers a flavorful way to access the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties that have made this spice valuable for centuries. The strongest evidence supports its antioxidant content and antibacterial effects, while benefits for blood sugar regulation, oral health, and digestive support show promising preliminary findings.
However, clove tea is not appropriate for everyone. Those taking blood thinners or diabetes medications, people with liver disease, and pregnant women should consult a healthcare provider before use. When enjoyed mindfully and in moderation, clove tea can be a warming addition to a wellness routine—but it should complement, not replace, conventional medical care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, most healthy adults can safely enjoy 1-2 cups of clove tea daily. However, some experts recommend cycling your consumption—for example, drinking it for two to three weeks, then taking a week off—to prevent any cumulative effects from extended eugenol exposure. If you take any medications or have underlying health conditions, check with your healthcare provider first.
Cloves used as a flavoring in food are generally considered safe during pregnancy, but medicinal amounts—including concentrated tea—lack sufficient safety data. Some sources suggest clove compounds may stimulate uterine contractions. Most healthcare providers recommend pregnant women either avoid clove tea or limit consumption to occasional, weak preparations. Always consult your OB-GYN before adding herbal teas to your pregnancy routine.
Clove tea may provide temporary relief from minor tooth or gum discomfort due to eugenol’s natural numbing and antibacterial properties. You can drink warm clove tea or use cooled tea as a gentle mouth rinse. However, tooth pain is often a warning sign of underlying problems like decay or infection that require professional treatment. While clove tea can offer comfort while you await a dental appointment, it should not replace proper dental care.
