What Happens to Your Body When You Chew a Clove Daily?

January 7, 2026 •

4 min read

According to research, the bioactive compound eugenol found in cloves possesses potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Many wonder what happens to your body when you chew a clove daily to harness these powerful effects and support overall wellness.

Quick Summary

Chewing a clove daily can benefit oral health, aid digestion, and boost immunity. The potent antioxidant eugenol offers anti-inflammatory support, but moderation is key to avoid potential side effects like liver irritation or drug interactions.

Key Points

Enhanced Oral Health: Chewing cloves releases eugenol, a natural antiseptic that fights oral bacteria, numbs pain, and freshens breath.
Improved Digestion: Cloves stimulate digestive enzymes, helping to relieve bloating, gas, and nausea after meals.
High in Antioxidants: Cloves are packed with antioxidants, including eugenol, that combat oxidative stress and protect against cell damage.
Blood Sugar Support: Compounds in cloves may help regulate blood sugar levels by improving insulin function and sensitivity.
Potential Risks: Excessive intake can cause liver damage, interact with blood thinners, or lead to dangerously low blood sugar, especially with concentrated clove oil.

The Power of a Single Clove

Chewing a whole clove daily is a practice with roots in traditional medicine, now gaining interest for its potential health benefits. The powerful effects are largely attributed to a compound called eugenol, along with other antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. This small spice packs a significant punch, but like any potent remedy, its use should be approached with knowledge and moderation.

Benefits of Chewing a Clove Daily

Enhanced Oral Health: Eugenol acts as a natural anesthetic and antiseptic, numbing dental pain and fighting oral bacteria that cause cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Regular chewing helps clean the mouth and provides a refreshing, spicy aroma.
Improved Digestion: Cloves can stimulate the production of digestive enzymes, which aids in breaking down food more efficiently. This can help alleviate common issues like bloating, gas, nausea, and indigestion, promoting smoother digestive function. Chewing a clove after a meal is a traditional practice for this purpose.
Immunity Boost: Rich in Vitamin C and potent antioxidants, chewing a clove daily can help strengthen the immune system. These compounds combat common infections and illnesses, especially during colder seasons. Eugenol also has antimicrobial properties that can fight against various pathogens.
Powerful Antioxidant Properties: Cloves are one of the richest sources of antioxidants among all spices. Antioxidants neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress, which is linked to chronic diseases and cellular aging.
Blood Sugar Regulation: Studies suggest that certain compounds in cloves, including nigricin, can help regulate blood sugar levels by acting similarly to insulin and improving its function. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with type 2 diabetes or those with prediabetes.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Eugenol has strong anti-inflammatory effects that can help reduce systemic inflammation. This can provide relief for inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and reduce chronic pain.
Potential Liver Protection: Some animal studies indicate that the antioxidants in cloves, such as eugenol, may help protect the liver from oxidative damage. However, more research is needed to confirm these effects in humans.

Potential Risks and Side Effects

While generally safe in small culinary amounts, daily consumption of cloves, especially in higher quantities, comes with potential risks. The concentration of eugenol is highest in clove oil, but excessive consumption of whole buds can still lead to adverse effects.

Comparison: Whole Clove vs. Clove Oil


Feature	Whole Clove (Chewing 1-2 Daily)	Concentrated Clove Oil	Potential Health Impact
Eugenol Concentration	Low to Moderate	Very High	Moderation provides benefits; excess can be toxic.
Risk of Liver Damage	Low, in moderation	High, if ingested	Excessive intake of eugenol can cause hepatotoxicity.
Risk for Bleeding	Low	High	High doses of eugenol have blood-thinning effects.
Effect on Blood Sugar	Can help regulate	Can cause dangerous drops	Use with caution if on diabetes medication.
Digestive Upset	Can aid digestion	Can cause irritation	Excessive amounts may lead to nausea or upset stomach.

It is crucial to use cloves cautiously, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are on certain medications.

How to Incorporate Cloves Safely

For most people, chewing one to two whole cloves daily is a safe and effective way to enjoy their benefits. The key is to avoid overconsumption and listen to your body. When you chew a whole clove, the natural compounds are gradually released, allowing your body to process them. You can swallow the clove after chewing or spit out the remaining fiber.

For additional ways to use cloves, consider brewing clove tea or infusing water. This dilutes the potent compounds, making them easier on the digestive system while still providing a boost of antioxidants. For instance, steeping a few cloves in hot water is a simple method to create a soothing, digestion-aiding beverage.

What to Look Out For

Pay attention to how your body reacts. If you experience mouth irritation, a burning sensation, or any digestive discomfort, reduce your intake or stop consuming cloves. Individuals on blood-thinning medications or those with bleeding disorders should consult a healthcare provider, as eugenol can interfere with blood clotting.

For more in-depth scientific information on the bioactive compounds in cloves, including eugenol, a review article on its properties can be found in the National Library of Medicine: Biological Properties and Prospects for the Application of Eugenol—A Review

Conclusion

Chewing a clove daily can offer a variety of benefits for oral health, digestion, immunity, and blood sugar management. Thanks to its rich content of eugenol and other antioxidants, this small spice has significant potential as a natural remedy. However, as with any natural supplement, moderation is crucial. Avoid the highly concentrated essential oil, stick to one or two whole cloves per day, and consult a healthcare professional if you have any health concerns or are on medication. By doing so, you can safely and effectively harness the power of this ancient spice for your wellness routine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, chewing one to two whole cloves a day is generally considered safe for most people. The key is moderation, as excessive consumption could lead to adverse effects.

Chewing cloves is beneficial for oral health due to its eugenol content, which acts as a natural antiseptic and analgesic. It helps fight bacteria that cause cavities, reduces gum inflammation, and neutralizes bad breath.

Yes, chewing cloves can aid digestion by promoting the production of digestive enzymes. This helps alleviate symptoms like gas, bloating, and nausea, especially after a heavy meal.

Yes, eugenol in cloves can have blood-thinning properties. Individuals taking anticoagulant medications like warfarin should consult a doctor before regularly consuming cloves, as it can increase the risk of bleeding.

Most experts recommend sticking to a maximum of one to four cloves per day. Starting with just one clove is advised to see how your body reacts.

Eugenol is the primary bioactive compound in cloves and is responsible for its distinct aroma and many health benefits. It possesses powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.

Some studies suggest that compounds in cloves may improve insulin function and help regulate blood sugar levels, which can be beneficial for individuals with diabetes or prediabetes.