Evidence supporting the use of: Clove
For the health condition: Parasites (nematodes, worms)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine, for its purported ability to expel intestinal parasites like nematodes and worms. The primary rationale for its use is clove’s high content of eugenol, a compound known for its antimicrobial properties. Traditional herbalists have used clove powder or oil as part of antiparasitic remedies, often in combination with other botanicals such as black walnut and wormwood.

Scientific validation for clove’s efficacy against human intestinal parasites is limited. Some in vitro studies suggest that eugenol and other clove extracts possess activity against certain parasites and their eggs, including Ascaris and Strongyloides species. There is also some evidence from veterinary studies indicating efficacy against nematodes in animals. However, robust human clinical trials are lacking, and the majority of available evidence comes from laboratory or animal studies. As a result, while clove’s use as an antiparasitic agent is well-rooted in tradition and supported by some preliminary research, it cannot be considered strongly evidence-based by modern scientific standards.

In summary, clove’s antiparasitic use is primarily justified by historical and traditional practices, with only modest scientific support to date. Individuals interested in using clove therapeutically for parasites should consult healthcare professionals, particularly given the paucity of high-quality clinical evidence and the potential for toxicity at high doses.

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