Cloves are tiny, aromatic flower buds from the Syzygium aromaticum tree that have been used for centuries—not just as a spice, but in traditional healing systems around the world. While adding spices like cloves to your meals is common, chewing or consuming them daily in deliberate amounts (such as 1–2 cloves per day) has become a curious health trend.
In this article, we explore what might happen if you add two cloves to your daily routine for a week, diving into the science behind the spice, its potential benefits, how to incorporate it safely, and important cautions you should know.
Understanding Cloves: Nutrition and Active Compounds
Cloves are more than just a seasoning. They are rich in bioactive compounds, especially eugenol, which gives them their distinctive aroma and many of their health-related properties. Cloves also contain micronutrients like manganese, vitamin K, fiber, and antioxidants. webmd.com+1
For example, one teaspoon of ground cloves provides roughly:
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Manganese — essential for enzyme systems and antioxidant defenses
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Vitamin K — important for blood clotting and bone health
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Fiber and trace minerals — slightly contributing to overall nutrition webmd.com
Their nutrient profile is modest but meaningful considering cloves are used in small quantities.
Potential Benefits of Daily Clove Consumption (Based on Current Research)
Adding two cloves a day—whether chewed directly, steeped into tea, or lightly incorporated into food—could produce a range of benefits over time. Let’s break them down.
1. Enhanced Digestive Comfort and Bloating Relief
Digestive discomfort, like bloating or gas, affects many individuals. Cloves have long been used in traditional herbal medicine as a carminative—a substance that can help reduce gas and aid digestion. Their compounds may stimulate digestive enzymes, which helps food break down more efficiently and supports gut motility. dogpjs.com
People often report feeling less gassy or heavier after meals when they chew cloves or sip clove tea regularly. While short-term studies are limited, traditional practices and preliminary research suggest digestive support is plausible.
2. Oral Health and Fresher Breath
Cloves are naturally antimicrobial—able to reduce harmful bacteria in the mouth. This is why clove oil has been used in dentistry for toothache relief and gum care. NDTV Food+1
Regularly chewing cloves may:
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Reduce bad breath
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Limit bacterial growth on teeth and gums
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Provide mild analgesic effects for oral discomfort
These effects aren’t a replacement for brushing and flossing, but cloves can complement oral hygiene.
3. Protection Against Oxidative Stress
Oxidative stress plays a role in aging and many chronic conditions. Cloves are exceptionally rich in antioxidants, particularly eugenol and flavonoids, which help neutralize free radicals in the body. Healthline
Higher antioxidant intake can support cellular health and may lower the risk of heart disease, metabolic disorders, and some forms of cancer over the long term.
4. Anti-Inflammatory Support
Inflammation is a natural immune response, but chronic low-grade inflammation may contribute to conditions like arthritis, heart disease and metabolic syndrome.
Research highlights that eugenol and other compounds in cloves have anti-inflammatory properties that may help balance the body’s inflammatory response. Healthline
While one week of cloves isn’t a cure-all, consistent intake might reduce discomfort or support long-term wellness when part of an anti-inflammatory diet.
5. Blood Sugar Regulation
Emerging evidence suggests cloves may help regulate blood sugar by improving insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. Some small studies and traditional medicine texts note modest effects when cloves are consumed regularly. NDTV Food+1
This doesn’t replace diabetes management, but it could be a supportive habit—especially when combined with a balanced diet and proper treatment.
6. Liver Support and Detoxification
The liver plays a crucial role in detoxifying harmful substances. Certain compounds in cloves may help protect liver cells from oxidative damage and support overall liver function. NDTV Food
Keep in mind this benefit is subtle and cumulative, not an immediate detox boost.
7. Heart Health Factors
Cloves may support heart health through several mechanisms:
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Reducing inflammation and oxidative stress
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Supporting healthy cholesterol levels
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Promoting better circulation
Some research finds that regular intake of cloves may correlate with improved lipid profiles (like lower LDL and balanced HDL). NDTV Food+1
How to Add Two Cloves to Your Daily Routine
Here are simple and practical ways to include cloves in your everyday life:
Chew Them Directly
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Slowly chew 1–2 whole cloves in the morning or after meals.
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Chewing releases essential oils and maximizes absorption of active compounds.
Make Clove Tea
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Steep 2–3 cloves in a cup of hot water for 5–10 minutes.
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Enjoy it warm—optionally add honey or lemon.
Add to Food
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Sprinkle ground cloves into oatmeal, soups, or baked dishes.
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Be mindful of its strong flavor!
Clove-Infused Water
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Soak cloves in room-temperature water overnight and drink the next day.
Important Precautions & When to Be Careful
While cloves are generally safe in culinary amounts (1–3 daily), high consumption or clove oil can cause side effects, and some people should avoid them. Herbpy Daily+1
Possible Side Effects
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Mouth or stomach irritation
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Nausea or heartburn
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Interference with blood clotting due to eugenol’s blood-thinning effects
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Hypoglycemia risk when combined with diabetes medications
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Liver or kidney stress when consumed in very large amounts (especially concentrated oil) Herbpy Daily
Who Should Be Cautious
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People on blood thinners (e.g., warfarin)
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Individuals with liver or kidney disease
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People taking diabetes medications
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Anyone preparing for surgery
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Pregnant or breastfeeding women (insufficient evidence) Herbpy Daily
Always talk to a healthcare provider before starting any new health habit if you have existing conditions or are on medication.
What to Expect After One Week
In just one week of adding two cloves daily, you might experience:
✔ Slightly reduced bloating or digestive discomfort
✔ Fresher breath or improved oral feel
✔ A subtle boost in antioxidant intake
✔ Minor changes in energy or well-being
These effects are subtle and individual—some people notice changes sooner, others later.
Final Thought: Tiny Habit, Real Potential
Two cloves a day might seem insignificant, but this small habit taps into centuries of traditional use and modern scientific interest.
Moderation and consistency are key. Cloves can support digestion, oral health, antioxidant defenses, and more—but they are just one part of a balanced, nutrient-rich diet and healthy lifestyle.
If you’re curious about natural wellness strategies, incorporating this simple spice might just be worth a try. But always listen to your body, and consult a professional if you’re unsure.