
General Information
OTHER NAMES: Syzygium aromaticum, Bourgeon Floral de Clou de Girofle (dried flower buds), Caryophylli flos
HISTORY: Ancient Roman and Chinese medicine, Ayurvedic medicine
PROPERTIES: Antibacterial, antiviral, antiseptic, antifungal, anesthetic/analgesic, antispasmodic, antiinflammatory, antioxidant
Considered Uses
Respiratory: Sore throat, cough (tea), expectorant
Eyes: Styes
Gastrointestinal: Toothache, pain control during dental work, halitosis (bad breath), gas (flatulence), promotes good digestion, used for vomiting, diarrhea, Hepatitis C, cirrhosis, anal fissures, decreases plaque, gingivitis/gum disease, stomach ulcers, liver problems, prevention for tooth enamel erosion, GERD
Musculoskeletal: Muscle spasms (topical)
Genitourinary: Aphrodisiac (historically), prevention of premature ejaculation (topical)
Skin: Scabies, herpes simplex
Glucose: May help reduce blood sugar levels
Cancer: Anticancer potential
Infectious Disease: Cholera, TB (use for support only, not for treatment), malaria
Other: Mosquito, tick, and moth repellent, excessive sweating, reduces alcohol craving (sucking on cloves), hangover, and slows blood clotting.
Side Effects: Skin rash, mouth irritation, ejaculatory and erectile problems
Caution/Contraindications: Liver disease, blood clotting disorders, food and plant allergies, immune system disorders, taking simultaneously with other blood thinners and potential blood thinners (coumadin, anti-inflammatories, Aspirin. Antidiabetic agents (may increase blood sugar too much). Clove oil in large amounts can lead to toxicity
FORMS: Oils, teas, whole, tinctures, powders, gels, tablets, capsules, toothpaste, oils, soaps, creams
RECOMMENDED BRANDS
No current recommended brands available
DOSAGES: As directed
Reported doses - often NOT supported by evidence reported by various sources (WebMD, RxList, Epocrates, German Commission E, NIH publications and others). Read dosages and instructions carefully when available on the label.
Mouthwash 1-5% clove essential oil
Note: Discontinue use 2 weeks before surgery because of blood-thinning properties.
*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. You must investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.
