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Cloves

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.

Cloves

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*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. It is essential that you 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.

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