27 Impressive Clove Water Benefits (#8 is a Shocker!)

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Last Updated on July 5, 2024

When you think of cloves you mind might go right to pumpkin pie and other fall spices. But there’s so much more to cloves! You can consume cloves in various forms to reap the health benefits. Today we will take a look at clove water benefits and teach you how you can easily make it yourself (and why you will want to!).

Clove Water

You may have heard about some of the health benefits of infused water, but perhaps you were just thinking about fruits and vegetables?

You might be surprised to learn about all the ways clove water benefits your health!

It might sound a bit strange like it does when people discover you can boil pineapple peel and even make banana peel tea for health benefits.

Read on to learn about all the ways cloves can improve your overall well-being.

What are Cloves?

Cloves are the flower buds of the clove tree, Syzygium aromaticum, an evergreen tree native to the Maluku Islands in Indonesia.

Known for their medicinal properties, cloves have been used in traditional medicine across various cultures, including Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine, for centuries.

They are a popular spice worldwide due to their strong, aromatic flavor.

What is Clove Water?

Clove water is a simple infusion made by steeping whole cloves in hot water.

This drink combines the essential oils and unique compounds found in cloves, offering a range of health benefits.

Clove water is an easy and natural way to incorporate the medicinal properties of cloves into your daily routine.

Whole Cloves Vs Clove Oil

While whole cloves are dried flower buds containing all the natural compounds of the clove tree, clove oil is a concentrated extract.

Clove oil is primarily composed of eugenol, which has potent antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties.

However, due to its concentration, clove oil should be used in moderation to avoid potential side effects, unlike whole cloves, which can be consumed more liberally.

Nutrition Facts on Cloves

Cloves have a very impressive nutritional profile. Take a look at the vitamins, minerals, andtioxidants, and bioactive compounds found in cloves:

Vitamins and Minerals in Cloves

Vitamin C: Boosts the immune system and helps in the absorption of iron.
Vitamin E: Known for its role in maintaining healthy skin and eyes, and strengthening the body’s natural defense against illness and infection.
Vitamin K: Essential for blood clotting and bone health.
Magnese: Cloves are rich in minerals such as manganese, which is vital for bone health and metabolism.

Antioxidants and Bioactive Compounds

Eugenol: This is the main component of clove’s essential oils, known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Eugenol helps in reducing oxidative stress, protecting the liver, and preventing liver damage.
Flavonoids: These compounds have antioxidant properties that help in combating free radicals in the body, reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Tannins: Known for their antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, tannins contribute to cloves’ effectiveness in improving oral health and treating bacterial infections.

27 Clove Water Benefits

Some of the benefits of clove water are a bit surprising! Did you know it can boost metabolic rate and promote hair growth? Just take a look:

1.) Boosts Immune System

Cloves contain high levels of vitamin C and other essential nutrients that help strengthen the immune system. Regular inclusion of cloves in your diet can help ward off common illnesses.

2.) Reduces Oxidative Stress

The antioxidants in cloves, such as eugenol, combat oxidative stress and neutralize harmful free radicals, protecting the body from cellular damage.

3.) Promotes Liver Health

Eugenol in cloves also supports liver health by reducing inflammation and preventing liver damage, making it a beneficial spice for maintaining liver function.

4.) Improves Oral Health

Cloves have been used in traditional medicine for their antimicrobial properties, which can fight oral bacteria, improving oral health and helping to prevent bad breath.

5.) Supports Healthy Blood Circulation

The eugenol in cloves has been shown to improve blood circulation, which can enhance overall cardiovascular health.

6.) Alleviates Tooth Pain

Clove oil is a popular remedy for tooth pain due to its numbing effect and antibacterial properties, providing temporary relief when applied to the affected area.

7.) Offers Anti-inflammatory Effects

The compounds in cloves, including eugenol, have anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammation in the body, offering relief from conditions like joint pain.

8. Improves Sexual Health

Some studies show that cloves can have a positive effect on sexual health due to their stimulating properties, though scientific evidence is limited.

9.) Enhances Hair and Scalp Health

Clove oil can be incorporated into your hair care routine to improve scalp health and promote hair growth thanks to its antimicrobial properties.

10.) Aids in Digestion

Cloves can stimulate the secretion of digestive enzymes, aiding in digestion and helping to reduce digestive discomfort like bloating and gas.

11.) Supports Heart Disease Prevention

The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of cloves may contribute to the prevention of heart disease by reducing risk factors such as high cholesterol levels.

12.) Helps Lower Blood Sugar Levels

Cloves have been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels, making them a beneficial addition to the diet for those managing diabetes.

13.) Helps in Weight Loss by Improving Metabolic Rate

The compounds in cloves can help boost metabolic rate, aiding in weight loss efforts by helping the body burn more calories.

14.) Reduces Joint Pain

The anti-inflammatory effects of cloves can provide relief from joint pain, making it a natural remedy for conditions like arthritis.

15.) Decreases Risk of Stomach Ailments Like Peptic Ulcers

Cloves can promote the production of gastric mucus, which helps protect the stomach lining and reduce the risk of peptic ulcers.

16.) Protects Against Bacterial Infections

The antibacterial properties of cloves make them effective in fighting off bacterial infections, supporting overall health.

17.) May Inhibit Tumor Growth

Preliminary research and animal studies suggest that the compounds in cloves may have the potential to inhibit tumor growth, though more research is needed.

18.) Enhances Bone Health by Improving Bone Mass

The eugenol in cloves has been linked to improved bone mass, contributing to stronger and healthier bones.

19.) Provides Natural Antimicrobial Properties

Cloves are a natural source of antimicrobial agents, making them effective in combating microorganisms that cause diseases.

20.) Helps Manage Cholesterol Levels

Incorporating cloves into your diet can help manage cholesterol levels, contributing to better heart health.

21.) Contains Antibacterial Properties Beneficial for Skin Health

The antibacterial properties of cloves can also benefit skin health by reducing the likelihood of bacterial skin infections.

22.) Can Be Used as a Natural Mouth Rinse for Better Oral Hygiene

Gargling with clove water can provide a natural way to improve oral hygiene and reduce bacteria in the mouth.

23.) Supports a Healthy Scalp, Promoting Hair Growth

Applying clove oil to the scalp can improve scalp health and encourage hair growth by combating dandruff and scalp infections.

24.) May Have Beneficial Effects on Mental Health

The aroma of cloves and their essential oils may have a calming effect, potentially benefiting mental health by reducing stress and anxiety.

25.) Helps in Managing Blood Pressure Levels

The components in cloves may help in managing blood pressure levels, contributing to cardiovascular health.

26.) Offers a Natural Remedy for Respiratory Conditions

Clove oil can be used as a natural remedy for respiratory conditions, helping to clear nasal passages and ease breathing.

27.) Can Reduce the Severity of Allergic Reactions

The anti-inflammatory properties of cloves may help reduce the severity of allergic reactions by minimizing inflammation.

Other Ways to Use Cloves

Adding ground cloves to your daily meals
Using clove oil in small amounts for aromatherapy or topical applications
Steeping whole cloves with other types of tea, such as chai tea
Incorporating clove powder to increase the health benefits of smoothies or baked goods
Taking clove supplements as directed by a healthcare provider
Cloves, known for their antibacterial properties, are excellent for creating a homemade cleaner. By using clove essential oil and mixing a few drops with water, you can craft a DIY cleaning solution that not only smells good but also helps to disinfect surfaces around your home.

How to Make Clove Water

Boil a cup of water and add a teaspoon of ground cloves or 5-10 whole cloves.
Let the mixture steep for 10-20 minutes.
Strain the cloves out and enjoy the clove water either hot or cold.

Ways to Enhance the Benefits of Clove Water

Mix with other beneficial spices like cinnamon or ginger
Add in some wildflower honey or other natural sweetener
Add a slice of lemon for an extra boost of vitamin C

Best Time to Drink Clove Water

For General Health: Including cloves in your diet or drinking clove water at any time during the day can support overall health.
For Digestive Health: To aid digestion, consider drinking clove-infused water before or after eating.
For Oral Health: Rinse your mouth with clove water in the morning and evening to maintain oral hygiene.
For Blood Sugar Control: Drinking clove water first thing in the morning on an empty stomach may assist in managing blood sugar levels.

How to Store Clove Water

Clove water can be stored in a refrigerator for up to 5 days. Ensure it’s kept in an airtight container to preserve its freshness and benefits.

Potential Downsides and Side Effects

Despite the health benefits of cloves, including their antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, high doses or long-term use can lead to severe side effects.

These include liver damage, especially in people with liver conditions, and allergic reactions which can manifest as skin irritation or more severe reactions in sensitive individuals.

It’s important to consume it in moderation and check with your docotor before starting any new herbal remedies.

Who Should Not Consume Cloves

People taking blood thinners or with bleeding disorders, undergoing surgery, or with diabetes should be cautious about using cloves due to several reasons:

Blood Thinning and Bleeding Disorders: Cloves contain a compound called eugenol, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects but can also act as a natural blood thinner. This can be risky for individuals already on blood-thinning medication or those with bleeding disorders, as it may increase the risk of bleeding.
Surgery: For those undergoing surgery, it’s important to avoid anything that could affect blood clotting. Since cloves can influence blood clotting due to the presence of eugenol, using cloves before surgery could increase the risk of bleeding during or after the procedure. It’s advisable to stop using cloves at least two weeks before any scheduled surgery.
Diabetes Management: While cloves have been noted for their potential to lower blood sugar levels, this can pose a problem for individuals with diabetes, especially those on medication to manage their condition. Cloves might interfere with blood sugar control, making it harder to maintain stable levels.

Final Thoughts

Clove water is a natural, flavorful way to enjoy the amazing benefits of cloves. Whether you’re looking to boost your immune system, improve oral health, or enhance your hair and scalp health, incorporating clove water into your daily routine can be a great way to achieve these health goals. Always remember to enjoy clove water as part of a balanced diet and consult a healthcare provider if you have any concerns about its use.