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Clove

Clove · Syzygium aromaticum

Roots & Spices

Clove

Syzygium aromaticum

In fifteenth-century London a pound of cloves cost a skilled craftsman four and a half days' wages.

Benefits

Supports mouth comfort

clove's natural oils can soothe minor tooth and gum discomfort and help freshen the mouth

Supports comfortable digestion

its warming oils help ease occasional gas, bloating, and heaviness after eating

Helps keep plaque down

clove's oils work against the bacteria that form plaque, which is why clove appears in some mouthwashes

Helps protect cells from everyday damage

clove contains plant compounds that help protect the body's cells

They will see the photograph and what it helps with.

Why they work

Eugenol

the main oil in clove. It gives clove its strong smell and warming taste. It can also gently numb the area where it is used

Warming oils

help stimulate saliva and normal digestive activity

Plant antioxidants

help protect cells from everyday damage

How to use it for the specific effect

For mouth freshness

chew one whole clove briefly, then remove it

For cooking

add whole or ground clove to tea, rice, stews, sauces, baked foods, or spice blends

For digestive comfort

use a small amount in food or prepare a mild clove tea

For tooth or gum comfort

choose a product made for oral use and follow its directions. Do not place undiluted clove oil directly on the gums

Key active compounds

Eugenol

the main clove oil. It gives clove its strong flavor and warming, numbing action

Acetyl eugenol

a related plant compound that adds to clove's natural oil profile

Tannins

plant compounds that support a clean, firm feeling in the mouth

Flavonoids

plant compounds that help protect cells

Caution

Clove oil

never swallow clove oil or use it undiluted in the mouth. It can burn the mouth and may be dangerous in large amounts

Bleeding risk

avoid large amounts of clove oil or concentrated clove extracts if you have a bleeding disorder or take medicine that affects blood clotting. Culinary amounts are different from concentrated products

How we chose it to buy online

We check every product so you don't have to. A clove only makes our list if:

  • Correct botanical identity — clearly labeled as Syzygium aromaticum
  • Whole cloves or pure powder — the product should not hide clove among an unclear blend
  • Clear preparation — states whether it contains whole cloves, ground cloves, extract, or oil
  • Fresh aroma — cloves should smell strong, warm, and sweet, not dusty or stale
  • No unnecessary additives — avoids added colors, flavorings, or fillers
  • Third-party tested — concentrated products should be checked for heavy metals, pesticides, mold, and harmful microbes

If no product meets these standards, we don't list one. No exceptions for affiliates.

See our picks

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