Clove
Syzygium aromaticum
T Traditional useDried clove flower buds. Traditionally used for temporary toothache relief and bad breath; their main active compound is eugenol.
Image: Herbadex Botanik Stüdyosu · Özel Üretim
On this page
At a glance
Cloves are the unopened flower buds of the Syzygium aromaticum tree. Most of their effect comes from eugenol, which dentists still use in temporary fillings and root canal dressings. Holding a clove next to an aching tooth is a traditional first-aid remedy. Cloves are also traditionally used for indigestion and wind.
Updated: October 15, 2026
ℹ Compiled from standard pharmacognosy references and clinical literature summaries where no formal EMA monograph exists.
What is it used for?
T Traditional use
Traditional use: Based on at least 30 years of documented traditional use rather than clinical trials.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Traditionally used for temporary toothache relief and bad breath. [1]
T Traditional use
Traditional use: Based on at least 30 years of documented traditional use rather than clinical trials.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Traditionally used for indigestion and wind. [1]
How is it used?
Safety & interactions
- For toothache this is only a stopgap; see a dentist.
- Do not drink clove oil or concentrated extracts; eugenol poisoning has been reported in children.
- Amounts used as a spice in food are generally safe; this does not apply to concentrated extracts and supplements.
Drug interactions
| Medicine / substance | Effect | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Anticoagulants (large amounts) | Eugenol may affect platelets; does not apply to food amounts. [2] | Minor |
Side effects
- Burning of the mouth lining (if held long)
⚕ When to see a doctor
- If high fever, shortness of breath or purulent/bloody phlegm develops
- If symptoms do not improve within 1–2 weeks or worsen
- If severe abdominal pain, jaundice, rash or allergic reaction occurs
Did you know?
At the Han dynasty court in China, visitors had to chew cloves to sweeten their breath before speaking to the emperor. [1]
Frequently asked questions
Do cloves help toothache?
Their eugenol can ease toothache for a while; it does not replace a dentist.
What is clove tea used for?
It is traditionally drunk for indigestion and wind.
Can cloves be chewed?
Briefly, for bad breath; holding them long can burn the mouth.
Sources
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants (Volumes 1–4)World Health Organization · 2009
- Trease and Evans Pharmacognosy (16th Edition)Elsevier Health Sciences · 2009
Cite This Page
Clove (Syzygium aromaticum). Herbadex — Doğal Şifa Rehberi (2026). https://herbadex.com/en/herb/clove/
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