What Happens When You Drink Hot Water with Cloves?

January 9, 2026 •

3 min read

According to scientific studies, cloves contain a powerful compound called eugenol, which offers potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Drinking hot water with cloves is a simple, time-honored practice that can potentially unlock these health benefits and others, from improving digestion to boosting your body's natural defenses.

Quick Summary

Drinking hot water infused with cloves releases beneficial compounds like eugenol, which can support digestion, boost immune function, and reduce inflammation. This practice is also linked to improved oral health, better blood sugar regulation, and potential weight management. Caution is advised for those with certain health conditions or taking specific medications.

Key Points

Immunity Boost: Cloves are rich in antioxidants and vitamins that help strengthen the immune system against infections.
Digestive Aid: Clove water stimulates digestive enzymes and relieves common issues like bloating, gas, and indigestion.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties: The compound eugenol helps reduce inflammation and can soothe discomfort associated with arthritis or other inflammatory conditions.
Regulates Blood Sugar: Compounds in cloves can improve insulin sensitivity and help regulate blood glucose levels after meals.
Weight Management Support: Clove water boosts metabolism and aids in weight loss when combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle.
Oral Health Improvement: The antibacterial effects of clove water help combat bad breath, gum infections, and dental problems.
Potential Risks: Excessive consumption can cause digestive irritation, and eugenol can thin the blood, posing risks for those with bleeding disorders or on blood thinners.

The Core Benefits of Clove-Infused Hot Water

When you steep cloves in hot water, you create a potent infusion that concentrates many of the spice's beneficial properties. The primary active compound, eugenol, is a powerful antioxidant, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory agent. This spicy, aromatic beverage has been a staple in traditional medicine systems for centuries and has gained modern recognition for its potential health advantages.

Improved Digestive Health

Drinking clove water is often associated with positive effects on the digestive system. It can stimulate the secretion of digestive enzymes and help alleviate gas and bloating. The carminative properties of cloves may also soothe stomach discomfort.

Boosts Immunity with Antioxidants

Cloves are rich in antioxidants that help combat free radicals, which is vital for a strong immune system. Regular consumption of clove water can support the body's natural defenses and has antimicrobial properties that may help fight infections.

Provides Anti-Inflammatory and Pain Relief

Eugenol is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, potentially helping to reduce systemic inflammation and offer relief for issues like mild arthritis or muscle soreness. Cloves' natural analgesic effects can also help with sore throats and dental pain.

Supports Oral Health

Clove water can contribute to better oral hygiene due to its antibacterial and anesthetic qualities. It may help reduce bacteria that cause bad breath, plaque, and gum infections.

Helps Regulate Blood Sugar

Some studies suggest compounds in cloves may aid in regulating blood sugar by potentially improving insulin sensitivity. While this can be beneficial, particularly for those managing diabetes, careful monitoring is necessary.

Potential Risks and Who Should Be Cautious

While safe in food quantities, medicinal doses or concentrated extracts of cloves require caution due to the potency of eugenol.

Side Effects to Note

Digestive Upset: Excessive clove water, especially on an empty stomach, can irritate the stomach lining.
Blood-Thinning: Eugenol can slow blood clotting.
Hypoglycemia: Clove may lower blood sugar, which could be risky when combined with diabetes medication.
Allergic Reactions: Though rare, allergic reactions are possible.

Who Should Avoid Clove Water?

Individuals on blood thinners, diabetics on medication, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals (due to lack of data), those with upcoming surgery, and children should be cautious or avoid clove water, especially in medicinal amounts.

Comparison of Daily Consumption vs. Medicinal Doses


Aspect	Daily Clove Water (Herbal)	Medicinal Doses (Supplements/Extracts)
Eugenol Concentration	Low, gentle infusion	High, concentrated extraction
Primary Goal	General wellness, daily boost	Targeting specific health conditions
Effect on the Body	Subtle, gradual improvement	Potentially more powerful, but higher risk
Safety Profile	Generally safe in moderation	Increased risk of side effects, toxicity
Best Practice	Consume 1-2 cups per day	Always consult a healthcare professional

How to Make Clove Water

Making clove tea is simple and can be done quickly or by soaking overnight.

Quick Stove-Top Method

Boil water.
Add 2-4 whole cloves and simmer for 5-10 minutes.
Strain and serve. Honey or lemon can be added for taste.

Overnight Soaking Method

Add 2-3 whole cloves to a glass of water.
Let it infuse overnight.
Drink the water in the morning, often on an empty stomach.

Conclusion

Drinking hot water with cloves is a straightforward way to potentially harness the health benefits of this spice, including support for digestion, immunity, and reducing inflammation. While generally safe in moderation, it's important to be aware of potential side effects and contraindications, particularly for those with specific health conditions or taking certain medications. Consulting a healthcare professional is always recommended before incorporating potent herbal remedies into your routine. With careful use, clove water can be a beneficial addition to a healthy lifestyle.

For more details on eugenol's properties, refer to the National Center for Biotechnology Information's website(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551727/).

Frequently Asked Questions

Drinking clove water daily in moderation, typically 1-2 cups, is generally considered safe for most healthy adults. Excessive intake, however, can lead to side effects like digestive upset. It's always best to listen to your body and consult a healthcare provider if you have concerns.

For digestive benefits and a metabolism boost, many people prefer drinking clove water first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. Others find it helpful to drink it after meals to reduce bloating and gas, or before bed for relaxation.

Yes, clove water can support weight management. It aids in weight loss by boosting metabolism and improving digestion, which helps the body efficiently process food. It is not a magic solution and should be part of a balanced diet and regular exercise routine.

Individuals with bleeding disorders, those on blood-thinning medication (like warfarin), and people with diabetes who take medication should exercise caution and consult a doctor. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also avoid it in medicinal doses due to insufficient safety data.

Yes, clove water has natural anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help soothe and reduce the ache of a sore throat. Gargling with it or sipping it warm during a cold can provide relief.

You can use ground cloves, but the whole buds are often preferred for tea as they release their flavor and compounds more slowly and are easier to strain. If using ground cloves, a smaller amount is recommended, and straining is crucial to avoid a grainy texture.

Some evidence suggests that cloves may help improve circulation, but there is no definitive information indicating a direct effect on blood pressure. Individuals with high blood pressure or those on blood pressure medication should consult their doctor before using clove water medicinally.