Discover the Top 10 Evidence-Based Uses of Clove Essential Oil

An Introduction to Clove Oil

Clove oil is an essential oil that has been used for centuries in both culinary dishes and natural medicine. The oil is extracted from clove buds, which come from the clove tree. Clove trees are evergreens that can grow up to 30 feet tall and originated in Southeast Asia.

Cloves themselves have a strong, distinctive taste and aroma. Clove oil has many of the same properties as whole cloves, but much more concentrated. Eugenol is the main component of clove oil and gives it anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antimicrobial, and stimulant abilities.

While cooked cloves are safe to consume, undiluted clove oil can be very strong and irritating when applying topically or taking internally. It's important to follow dosage guidelines and dilute clove oil properly before use.

Let's explore some of the top uses and benefits of clove oil.

Using Clove Oil for Oral Health

One of the most common uses of clove oil is promoting oral health. Its natural antibacterial qualities make it ideal for keeping teeth and gums clean and healthy. Here are some of the ways clove oil is used for oral care:

Toothache Relief

Clove oil has traditionally been used to temporarily relieve pain from toothaches and mouth sores. Eugenol has natural pain relieving as well as antibacterial effects when applied directly to the gums. To use: Dilute 1-2 drops of clove oil with coconut oil then apply to the affected area of the mouth.

Mouthwash

Due to its ability to kill bad breath and bacteria, clove oil is a popular addition to homemade mouthwashes. It leaves the mouth feeling clean and refreshed. To make a mouthwash: Add 2-3 drops clove oil, peppermint oil, and lemon oil to a cup of water.

Toothpaste

Clove oil's cleansing powers also make it an excellent addition to homemade toothpaste recipes. Along with ingredients like coconut oil and baking soda, clove oil helps clean and whiten teeth naturally. Use 1-2 drops per batch of toothpaste.

Gum Disease

Some research indicates clove oil may be useful for treating gingivitis and other gum diseases when used along with regular oral care. The antibacterial properties help keep infection and inflammation at bay.

Do not swallow clove oil as it can be irritating to tissues. Always dilute before applying to gums.

Clove Oil Benefits for Skin

In addition to oral health, clove oil has many uses for topical skin care. Its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects make it helpful for common skin complaints.

Acne

One promising application is using clove oil to treat acne. One study found clove oil to be just as effective as benzoyl peroxide but without the drying side effects. Along with removing bacteria, clove oil helps reduce inflammation and swelling.

Anti-aging

With potent antioxidant abilities, clove oil has been shown to reduce signs of aging on the skin. It encourages skin cell regeneration and can help reverse UV damage when applied topically. Try adding a few drops to your moisturizer.

Eczema and Psoriasis

Soothe flaky, irritated skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis by applying diluted clove oil. Reduce inflammation and stimulate healing by rubbing 2-3 drops mixed with a carrier oil onto affected areas once or twice daily.

Warts and Moles

Some natural health practitioners recommend using undiluted clove oil to remove warts, moles, skin tags, and other unwanted growths. Apply a drop at night, cover with a bandage, and repeat until the growth falls off. Use caution testing this method.

Always do a skin patch test before wider application and dilute with a carrier oil like coconut oil before applying clove directly to skin.

Clove Oil Around the Home

Aside from health and wellness, clove oil has many household uses thanks to its anti-microbial powers. Here are some clever ways to use clove oil around the home:

Mold Remover

Clove oil can safely and naturally help remove indoor mold growth. Add 10-15 drops of clove oil to a spray bottle of water. Lightly mist on areas with mold to help eliminate it.

Natural Air Freshener

Get rid of bad odors naturally with clove oil. Add several drops to a diffuser or simmer cloves in water for an aromatic air freshener.

Fruit and Veggie Wash

Remove wax, pesticides, and bacteria from your produce by soaking in water with a few drops of clove oil added.

Natural Disinfectant

Use clove oil diluted in water to clean and disinfect surfaces around the home. The antimicrobial effects protect against dangerous pathogens.

Repel Insects

Mix clove oil with water in a spray bottle and use to deter ants, spiders and other unwanted pests from the home without toxic chemicals.

Internal Health Uses for Clove Oil

When used in moderation, clove oil can also provide benefits when taken internally. Always dilute clove oil with a carrier oil before ingesting.

Digestive Aid

Clove oil can help stimulate digestion and relieve gas, bloating, stomach ulcers, and nausea when diluted and consumed before meals. Start with 1 drop in a glass of water.

Immune Booster

Some research indicates clove oil may stimulate white blood cell production and support immune function when taken regularly. Add 1-2 drops to tea or smoothies.

Antioxidant

The compounds in clove oil are extremely high in antioxidants. Consuming clove oil diluted in drinks may help reduce oxidative stress and cellular damage in the body.

Breath Freshener

Clove oil can freshen breath for hours when diluted and used as a mouth rinse. Keep a small bottle on hand for quick freshening throughout the day as needed.

Using Clove Oil Topically and Aromatically

Clove oil has many topical and aromatic uses that allow you to harness its health benefits. Here are some tips for use:

Dilution

Always dilute clove oil with a carrier oil like coconut, olive, almond or jojoba oil before applying to skin, gums, etc. Use 1-2 drops clove oil per teaspoon of carrier oil.

Skin Patch Test

Do a patch test on a small area of skin before wider application. Check for any irritation or reaction first.

Aromatherapy

Clove oil can be inhaled via aromatherapy diffuser, added to bathwater in emulsifier, or steamed in hot water for inhalation.

Storage

Store clove oil in a dark glass bottle out of direct sunlight. It will keep for 1-2 years if properly stored.

Ingestion

Dilute clove oil well and take internally in very small doses. Too much can be toxic for certain individuals. Start with 1 drop and work up slowly as tolerated.

Precautions When Using Clove Oil

Clove oil is very concentrated and potent, so it's important to exercise precautions:

• Always dilute with a carrier oil before topical use.
• Do not apply undiluted to skin as it can cause irritation or burns.
• Do a patch test before wider use to check for allergic reaction.</

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.