Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Organic Clove

Also known as: Syzygium aromaticum, Clove, Cloves

Overview

Cloves are the dried flower buds of the clove tree (_Syzygium aromaticum_), native to the Maluku Islands in Indonesia. Widely recognized as a spice, cloves are also employed in traditional medicine for their analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. The high concentration of eugenol, a key compound in cloves, is responsible for many of their biological activities. Cloves are available in various forms, including whole cloves, ground cloves, and clove essential oil (CEO). They are commonly used to relieve toothache pain and are incorporated into culinary applications worldwide. Research on cloves is moderately mature, with preclinical and some clinical studies supporting their traditional uses. The quality of evidence includes systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and preclinical studies, although clinical trials are less abundant.

Benefits

Cloves offer several evidence-based benefits. Clove essential oil (CEO) has demonstrated significant analgesic effects, reducing acetic acid-induced writhing movements in mice by 87.7% and increasing reaction latency to pain in the hot plate test by 82.3%. CEO also exhibits antioxidant activity, increasing superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. While less extensively studied, cloves are believed to possess anti-inflammatory properties. Traditionally, cloves are used for dental pain relief, supported by their analgesic properties. The analgesic effect of CEO in preclinical models is comparable to standard analgesics. The immediate analgesic effects can be observed within minutes to hours after application.

How it works

The primary active compound in cloves, eugenol, exerts its effects through multiple biological pathways. It inhibits pain mediators, contributing to its analgesic properties, and activates antioxidant enzymes, providing antioxidant benefits. Eugenol interacts with the nervous system to produce analgesia and with cellular systems to exert antioxidant effects. Molecularly, eugenol targets pain receptors and antioxidant defense mechanisms. It is readily absorbed through the skin and mucous membranes, facilitating a rapid onset of action. These interactions contribute to the overall therapeutic effects of cloves.

Side effects

Cloves are generally safe when used in moderation, but excessive consumption can lead to adverse effects. Common side effects include local irritation and allergic reactions. Uncommon side effects, occurring in 1-5% of users, involve gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large quantities. Rare side effects, affecting less than 1% of users, include severe allergic reactions and liver toxicity with prolonged high-dose use. Eugenol can interact with blood thinners due to its antiplatelet properties. Cloves are contraindicated in pregnancy, breastfeeding, and children due to potential allergic reactions and other adverse effects. Individuals with liver disease should use cloves with caution due to potential hepatotoxicity.

Dosage

For analgesic purposes, a few drops of clove essential oil applied topically or a small amount of ground cloves (about 0.1-0.5 grams) can be effective. The optimal dose varies depending on the application; for dental pain, a cotton swab soaked in clove oil applied to the affected area is common. Excessive consumption (more than 30 cloves per day) can lead to adverse effects. For immediate relief, topical application is preferred. Eugenol is well-absorbed through skin and mucous membranes. No specific cofactors are required for clove efficacy. It is important to adhere to recommended dosages to avoid potential adverse effects.

FAQs

Are cloves safe to use?

Cloves are generally safe when used in moderation. Excessive use can lead to adverse effects, so it is important to use them as directed.

How should I use cloves for dental pain?

For dental pain, apply clove oil topically to the affected area using a cotton swab as needed for relief.

What results can I expect from using cloves?

You can expect rapid relief from toothache pain and potential antioxidant benefits. However, cloves are not a substitute for medical treatment.

Can cloves replace medical treatment?

No, cloves are not a substitute for medical treatment; they are a complementary remedy. Consult a healthcare professional for appropriate medical care.

Research Sources

https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/16/6/756 – This systematic review and meta-analysis of preclinical studies in mice found that clove essential oil demonstrated significant analgesic effects in both nociceptive and neuropathic pain models. The review highlights the potential of clove oil as an analgesic but notes the need for more studies, particularly in neuropathic pain models, and acknowledges methodological concerns in the existing research.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2021.640128/full – This study investigates the antinociceptive capabilities of clove oil in mice. The findings indicate that clove oil significantly reduced acetic acid-induced writhing movements by 87.7% and increased reaction latency to pain in the hot plate test by 82.3%. The study provides evidence for the analgesic properties of clove oil in preclinical models.
https://training.cochrane.org/handbook/current/chapter-04 – This Cochrane Handbook chapter provides guidance on systematic reviews and meta-analysis. It outlines the principles and methods for conducting high-quality reviews, including formulating research questions, searching for evidence, assessing study quality, and synthesizing findings. The handbook serves as a resource for researchers conducting systematic reviews.
https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3921/13/4/488 – This preclinical study explores the antioxidant activity of clove essential oil. The study found that CEO increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in _Varroa destructor_ mites, indicating its antioxidant properties. The results suggest that clove oil has potential as an antioxidant agent.
https://dergipark.org.tr/en/download/article-file/2879008 – This case report details the adverse effects of excessive clove consumption in an 8-year-old girl. The report indicates that consuming more than 30 cloves per day led to anemia and other health issues. This case highlights the potential risks associated with excessive clove intake and underscores the importance of moderation.