Clove water is made by steeping whole cloves in water, allowing their natural oils and beneficial plant compounds to infuse.
This infusion may help support digestion, maintain oral freshness, and promote healthy metabolic function.
Discover seven benefits of drinking clove water and learn how to make this health-promoting remedy at home.
What are cloves?
Cloves, also known as Syzygium aromaticum, are the aromatic dried flower buds of the clove tree, a tropical evergreen native to Indonesia.
Rich in essential nutrients, including vitamins C and K, as well as calcium, manganese, and magnesium, cloves support metabolic health and promote skeletal integrity.
These dried flower buds have a warm, slightly sweet flavor and are widely used in both culinary dishes and traditional Chinese medicine for their aromatic and therapeutic properties.
Whole or ground cloves are commonly added to spice blends, beverages, and baked goods, while their high concentrations of natural oils also make them ideal for infusions.
For example, clove tea is a popular beverage enjoyed for its warming properties and ability to support digestion.
Additionally, clove essential oil, extracted through steam distillation, is valued for its invigorating scent and is often used in aromatherapy.
When properly diluted, topical clove oil can help support oral hygiene and refresh the skin, but it should be used with care.
Watch the video below to learn the benefits of drinking clove water at night.
7 benefits of drinking clove water
Consuming clove water is a simple yet impactful way to unlock the remarkable benefits of this potent aromatic spice.
Here are seven reasons to consider adding clove water to your daily routine.
1. Supports oral health
Research published in the International Journal of Dentistry suggests that clove may help limit tooth enamel loss and could potentially complement fluoride in protecting against root decay.1
This is because clove contains a compound called eugenol, which has been shown to have significant antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.
2. May help regulate blood sugar
Clove may help maintain balanced blood sugar levels by supporting the body’s natural insulin function and glucose metabolism.
A study published in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies found that clove helped lower post-meal blood sugar levels and reduced pre-meal levels in individuals with elevated baseline readings.2
The authors also noted that clove may help regulate blood sugar by reducing glucose production in liver cells and slowing the activity of enzymes that break down carbohydrates. These effects suggest clove could support healthy glucose levels.
3. Promotes liver health
Known for its antioxidant properties, clove may support liver health by helping protect against liver cell damage and assisting in the body’s natural detoxification processes.
According to evidence published in the Journal of Cancer Prevention, “The dried flower bud of Syzygium aromaticum (clove) is rich in eugenol, an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound that can protect the liver against injury.”3
In addition, cloves contain bioactive compounds that may aid the liver in breaking down and eliminating metabolic waste products and environmental toxins.
4. Provides immune system support
Among the most recognized health benefits of cloves is their ability to support the immune system.
“Clove possesses properties that may assist in maintaining a healthy immune response and promoting a balanced inflammatory process,” explains Dr. Berg. “This is primarily due to cloves’ high concentration of antioxidants, which can help protect the body from harmful free radicals and oxidative stress.”
Moreover, clove water has traditionally been used as a natural remedy for colds, coughs, and other respiratory infections due to its antimicrobial effects.
5. Contributes to skin health
Drinking clove water may support skin healing by helping reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which can affect how wounds recover and scars form.
Furthermore, topical clove water application may offer antibacterial and antifungal effects, which can help keep the skin clear.
For this reason, it’s commonly included in skincare products designed for acne-prone or irritated skin.
6. Supports digestive health
Clove water has been used in traditional medicine to improve digestion and alleviate digestive issues, such as nausea, bloating, and upset stomach.
Clove’s natural compounds, especially eugenol, may help stimulate the production of digestive enzymes, promoting more efficient food breakdown.
Additionally, its carminative properties can help relax the gastrointestinal tract and reduce gas and bloating.
7. May promote weight loss
Rich in beneficial plant compounds, cloves may support healthy fat metabolism, a key factor in maintaining a healthy body weight.
Natural components in cloves, such as eugenol, acetyl eugenol, and caryophyllene, may assist in regulating lipid metabolism by interacting with enzymes that influence how the body produces and stores fat.
These bioactive agents may also help reduce fat accumulation, particularly in the liver and abdominal areas, which is a critical factor for overall metabolic health and weight management.
How to make clove water
Making clove water is a simple process that can be done at home with just a few ingredients.
Here’s how to make your own clove water:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 2 to 3 whole cloves
Instructions:
- In small saucepan, bring water to boil.
- Once boiling, add cloves and reduce heat to low.
- Let cloves simmer for about five minutes.
- Turn off heat and let mixture cool down for another five minutes.
- Strain cloves using fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth.
- Transfer clove water to container and let it cool completely before drinking.
Additional Tips:
- Store clove water in a sealed container in the refrigerator and use within three days.
- Add a little manuka honey or a splash of lemon juice to enhance flavor and health benefits.
- Clove water can also be used as a natural mouthwash by swishing it around in your mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it out.
Potential downsides of cloves
Although cloves offer impressive health benefits, they may not be suitable for everyone.
High doses are generally not recommended, as cloves can thin the blood, and drinking clove water may not be appropriate during pregnancy or for those with blood-clotting disorders.
Some individuals may experience allergic reactions or digestive issues such as heartburn, nausea, or diarrhea.
Additionally, cloves may interact with certain medications, particularly blood thinners and diabetes drugs, and it’s important to use them with caution and consult a healthcare provider if needed.
More ways to use cloves
Apart from its culinary and health-enhancing uses, cloves can also be used in a variety of other ways.
Here are several practical uses for adding cloves to your daily routine.
Insect repellent
The strong scent of cloves makes it a potent insect repellent against mosquitoes, ants, flies, and other common household pests.
To repel insects, add a few drops of clove essential oil to a diffuser or mix it with water and spray it around your house.
Aromatherapy
The scent of cloves has been found to have calming effects on the mind and body.
Adding a few drops of clove essential oil to an oil diffuser or warm bath may help relieve stress and promote relaxation.
Natural preservative
Due to its antibacterial properties, clove oil is often used in natural products as a preservative. It can help extend the shelf life of homemade cosmetics, soaps, and other personal care items.
Eco-friendly air freshener
Simmering cloves on the stovetop with cinnamon sticks and citrus peels creates a natural, comforting home fragrance.
Key takeaways
The benefits of drinking clove water include better oral health, balanced blood sugar levels, and immune-supportive effects.
While clove water offers numerous health advantages, excessive consumption can trigger digestive issues and may thin the blood, making it potentially unsafe for individuals with bleeding disorders or those taking blood-thinning medications.
FAQ
1. What are the benefits of drinking clove water?
Cloves are packed with antioxidants and boast powerful anti-inflammatory properties, offering a range of potential health benefits.
Drinking clove water may support oral health, strengthen the immune system, and help with weight management.
2. Can I drink clove water every day?
Yes, you can drink clove water every day. However, it’s essential to consume it in moderation to minimize the risk of digestive issues. It’s recommended to start with a small amount and gradually increase as tolerated.
3. Can cloves reduce belly fat?
While clove water isn’t a magic cure for belly fat, it can support weight management when combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise.
Cloves contain compounds that may help boost metabolism and reduce inflammation, both of which can contribute to healthier weight loss.
4. How do I make clove water?
To make clove water, start by boiling one cup of water. Add 2 to 3 whole cloves to the boiling water and simmer for five minutes. Once the water changes color and takes on the aroma of cloves, turn off the heat and strain the liquid to remove the cloves.
5. What are the side effects of clove?
While clove water is generally safe to consume, excessive consumption can lead to digestive issues and may cause interactions with certain medications, including blood-thinners and antidiabetic drugs.
6. Is drinking clove water good for skin health?
Yes, drinking clove water can benefit skin health due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It may also support wound healing, reduce scarring, and alleviate various skin conditions.
