Clove (syzygium aromaticum)
Synopsis
Clove is the dried, unopened flower bud of the Syzygium aromaticum tree, an evergreen native to the Maluku Islands (Spice Islands) of Indonesia. It is one of the most aromatic and medicinally potent spices in the world, long revered for its warming, stimulating, antimicrobial, and analgesic properties. Clove contains a high concentration of eugenol, a powerful bioactive compound responsible for many of its therapeutic effects, along with flavonoids, tannins, and triterpenes.
Medicinally, clove is best known for its pain-relieving and antiseptic properties, especially in dental care. Clove oil has been traditionally applied to relieve toothache, gum infections, and oral ulcers, and modern studies confirm its ability to numb pain, fight bacteria, and reduce inflammation. It is commonly included in natural oral hygiene products for its antimicrobial action against Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans.
Internally, clove is used to stimulate digestion, relieve gas and bloating, reduce nausea, and increase metabolic warmth. It is a carminative and mild antispasmodic, traditionally used for indigestion, sluggish digestion, and cramps. Clove also possesses antiviral and antifungal properties and is used to support immune response, particularly in cases of colds, flu, and respiratory infections.
Emerging research has shown potential for clove to aid in blood sugar regulation, antioxidant protection, and even liver health, though these benefits are typically associated with controlled extracts or oils, not large culinary doses.
Clove oil is extremely concentrated and must be used with care; in excessive doses, it can irritate mucous membranes and has potential hepatotoxicity. However, when diluted and used appropriately, it is considered safe and effective both internally and topically.
Historical Use
Clove has been used for over 2,000 years in both Eastern and Western medical systems. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, clove (ding xiang) is used to warm the kidneys, dispel cold, and relieve hiccups or vomiting, particularly when caused by digestive cold or weakness. It is classified as warm and pungent, with affinity for the spleen, stomach, and kidney meridians.
In Ayurveda, clove (lavanga) is considered stimulating, carminative, and expectorant, used to kindle agni (digestive fire), relieve vata and kapha imbalances, and clear mucus from the respiratory tract. It was also applied topically as a paste for skin infections, and included in herbal oils for muscle and joint pain.
In medieval European medicine, clove was a prized ingredient in apothecary blends, syrups, and elixirs, especially those intended to treat plague, toothache, sore throat, and indigestion. It was one of the most expensive and sought-after spices in the world, driving international trade and exploration during the Age of Discovery.
Clove oil was also a key ingredient in the famous “Four Thieves Vinegar”—a blend of herbs and spices used during plagues to ward off illness and infection.
Today, clove remains a staple in natural health practices, culinary traditions, oral care, and aromatherapy, offering time-tested support for pain relief, digestion, immunity, and microbial balance.
Uses: Health Conditions
Dysentery (Traditional)
Parasites (general) (Traditional)
Parasites (nematodes, worms) (Traditional)
Parasites (tapeworm) (Traditional)
Scabies (Traditional)
Teething (Traditional)
Body Systems
Digestive System (Traditional)
Gums (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)