How to Put Clove in Mouth for Maximum Oral Health Benefits

November 24, 2025 •

5 min read

Research has consistently shown that eugenol, the active compound in cloves, possesses powerful antimicrobial and analgesic properties that can benefit oral health. This comprehensive guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to put clove in mouth safely and effectively to leverage its natural therapeutic benefits.

Quick Summary

A detailed guide explaining how to safely use whole cloves, clove oil, and clove-based rinses to address common oral issues like bad breath and minor pain. It covers the methods, benefits, and essential safety precautions for effective use.

Key Points

Start Slowly: Begin with just one whole clove to test for sensitivity to the potent eugenol content.
Chew Gently: Soften the clove with saliva before gently chewing to release the beneficial oils gradually, preventing irritation.
Dilute Clove Oil: Always dilute concentrated clove oil with a carrier oil like olive or coconut oil before applying to avoid burning your gums.
Use for Temporary Relief: Cloves are a short-term remedy for minor discomfort and bad breath, not a cure for underlying dental problems.
Mind Drug Interactions: Be cautious if taking blood-thinning medications, as cloves can have an anticoagulant effect.
Consult a Professional: Always see a dentist for persistent pain or swelling, as cloves only mask symptoms and do not treat the cause.
Prepare a Rinse: A homemade clove mouthwash is a gentle, effective way to use cloves for daily oral hygiene and fresh breath.

Understanding the Oral Health Benefits of Clove

Cloves, the dried flower buds of the Syzygium aromaticum tree, have been a staple in traditional medicine for centuries, particularly for dental health. The source of their potency is a chemical compound called eugenol, which makes up a significant portion of clove's essential oil and is renowned for its various therapeutic effects.

The Power of Eugenol

Eugenol is the key to clove's oral health capabilities, acting as a powerful analgesic, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory agent. Its numbing effect provides temporary relief from dental pain, while its antiseptic qualities help to kill bacteria in the mouth that can lead to cavities and gum disease. This makes it a multi-faceted natural solution for various oral discomforts.

Natural Breath Freshener

One of the most immediate benefits of putting clove in your mouth is combating bad breath. The strong, aromatic compounds in cloves, combined with their antibacterial properties, can effectively kill the odor-causing bacteria that live on the tongue and between teeth. Chewing a single clove can provide a long-lasting, natural breath freshener that is an excellent alternative to artificial mints.

Soothing Tooth and Gum Pain

For a minor toothache, the natural anesthetic properties of eugenol can provide welcome temporary relief. By holding a whole clove or a paste made from ground cloves against the affected area, you can experience a numbing sensation that helps manage discomfort while you arrange for professional dental care.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Put Clove in Mouth Safely

There are several effective ways to use cloves for oral health, from simple chewing to creating a homemade rinse. Always start with a small amount to gauge your sensitivity.

Using a Whole Clove

This method is one of the most popular for immediate, localized relief.

Select a quality clove: Use a fresh, dried whole clove. Avoid old cloves, as their potency decreases over time.
Place in mouth: Put one whole clove on the sore tooth or painful gum area. Allow your saliva to soften it for a minute or two.
Gently chew: Using a non-painful molar, gently chew the clove a few times to release its oil. Avoid aggressive chewing, which can release too much oil at once and cause a burning sensation.
Position and hold: Move the softened, crushed clove back to the painful spot and hold it there for up to 30 minutes, or until the pain subsides.
Rinse and dispose: After use, spit out the clove pieces and rinse your mouth with warm water. Never swallow large amounts of clove or its residue.

Creating a Clove-Infused Mouthwash

For general oral hygiene and breath freshness, a clove rinse is a great option.

Boil water: Bring one cup of water to a boil.
Add cloves: Add 4-5 whole cloves to the boiling water.
Steep and cool: Remove from heat and let the cloves steep for 10-15 minutes. Allow the mixture to cool completely.
Strain and store: Strain out the cloves and pour the liquid into a clean bottle. Store in the refrigerator.
Use as needed: Swish a small amount in your mouth for 30 seconds to a minute, then spit it out. Do not swallow.

Making a Clove Paste for Targeted Application

This method provides a more concentrated application for specific areas.

Grind cloves: Finely grind 2-3 whole cloves into a powder using a mortar and pestle or spice grinder.
Mix with oil: Mix the ground clove powder with a small amount of a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil to form a thick paste.
Apply to affected area: Use a cotton swab to apply a small amount of the paste directly onto the sore tooth or inflamed gum.
Leave and rinse: Leave the paste on for up to 30 minutes, then rinse your mouth with warm, salty water.

Clove Preparation Comparison Table


Feature	Whole Clove	Clove Oil	Clove-Infused Rinse
Potency	Medium. Releases oil gradually.	High. Very concentrated and potent.	Low to Medium. Diluted and gentle.
Speed of Relief	Gradual, providing sustained effect.	Fast-acting for immediate numbing.	Gradual, provides general antibacterial effect.
Irritation Risk	Low, if chewed gently and not swallowed.	High, if not diluted properly. Can burn gums.	Very low, if prepared and used correctly.
Best For	Targeted toothache, bad breath, saliva production.	Acute tooth pain, precise application.	General oral hygiene, bad breath, daily use.

Crucial Precautions and Side Effects

While cloves offer numerous benefits, it's essential to use them correctly and in moderation to avoid adverse effects. The potent eugenol can be irritating in high concentrations.

Use Moderation

Consuming too many cloves or using undiluted clove oil can cause side effects like nausea, vomiting, or stomach irritation. Stick to the recommended dosage of 1-2 whole cloves or properly diluted oil.

Drug Interactions

Cloves have natural blood-thinning properties and can interfere with anticoagulant medications like warfarin. If you are on blood thinners, have a bleeding disorder, or have upcoming surgery, consult a doctor before using cloves.

Allergic Reactions

Some individuals may experience allergic reactions, particularly with topical applications. Symptoms can include mouth irritation, itching, or swelling. Discontinue use if you experience any adverse reactions.

Not a Cure-All

Using cloves is a temporary remedy for symptoms, not a permanent cure for the underlying cause of dental problems. Persistent toothaches, infections, or severe gum issues require professional dental treatment. Don't delay seeing a dentist by relying solely on cloves for pain relief.

Conclusion

Putting clove in your mouth can be an effective, natural method for addressing common oral issues like bad breath and minor tooth pain. Whether you choose to chew a whole clove, use a clove-infused mouthwash, or create a paste, the key is to use it in moderation and understand its potential side effects. Always remember that while cloves can offer temporary relief and support oral hygiene, they are not a substitute for regular dental checkups and professional treatment. By following the proper techniques and precautions, you can safely incorporate this powerful spice into your oral care routine. For more information on holistic oral care, consult a reputable dental health resource, such as Colgate's oral health guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, putting a single whole clove in your mouth is generally safe. You should first soften it with saliva before gently chewing to release the oil gradually. Be careful not to swallow large pieces and always use in moderation.

You can hold a softened, crushed whole clove against a painful tooth or gum for up to 30 minutes to get temporary relief from pain. For fresh breath, simply chewing it for a few minutes before spitting it out is sufficient.

Yes, chewing 1-2 cloves daily is considered beneficial for oral health due to their antibacterial properties, which help combat bad breath and plaque. However, excessive consumption should be avoided to prevent potential side effects.

A whole clove offers a more gradual release of eugenol, making it a milder option with a lower risk of irritation. Clove oil is highly concentrated and potent, providing faster numbing relief but requiring dilution with a carrier oil to prevent gum burns.

Side effects from chewing cloves are rare when used in moderation but can include stomach upset, irritation of the gums or mouth lining, and, in high doses, potential interference with blood-clotting medication. Always use a small amount and stop if irritation occurs.

No, cloves do not offer a permanent cure for toothache. The numbing effect is temporary and masks the pain, which is a symptom of an underlying issue like a cavity or infection. It is crucial to see a dentist to address the root cause.

If you experience a burning sensation, it is likely due to the concentration of eugenol. Immediately spit out the clove and rinse your mouth thoroughly with water. Next time, use less of the clove or dilute a small drop of clove oil more effectively before application.

It is not recommended to give clove oil orally to children, as it can be toxic in higher concentrations. Consult a pediatrician or pediatric dentist for safe pain relief methods for children.