Clove
Important Disclaimer
This is not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any remedy, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, on medication, or managing a health condition.
Overview
Clove contains eugenol — the highest concentration natural analgesic compound known. Dentists have used eugenol for toothache pain since the 1800s and it remains an active ingredient in dental cement preparations today. Cloves have the highest antioxidant activity of any spice on the ORAC scale (290,000+ per 100g). The essential oil has potent broad-spectrum antimicrobial, antifungal, and antiparasitic activity.
Traditional Use
Clove was one of the most valuable spices in the ancient world, traded from the Moluccas (Spice Islands) to China, India, Egypt, and Rome. Chinese court officials chewed cloves to freshen breath before addressing the Emperor. Arab traders monopolized the clove trade until the 16th century when Portuguese, then Dutch colonizers seized the Spice Islands. In Ayurveda, cloves are a warming digestive and analgesic herb. Traditional dental use for toothache pain spans virtually every culture that had access to cloves.
Key Active Compounds
Eugenol (70–90% of Essential Oil)
The most potent natural analgesic compound known per unit — inhibits voltage-gated sodium channels (same mechanism as local anesthetic drugs like lidocaine), cyclooxygenase enzymes (anti-inflammatory like NSAIDs), and has broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. Basis of dental eugenol-based cements.
Beta-Caryophyllene
Sesquiterpene that activates CB2 cannabinoid receptors (the anti-inflammatory cannabinoid receptor), providing additional anti-inflammatory effects. Common to many essential oils.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Toothache and Dental Pain Relief
Strong evidenceEugenol is the basis of pharmaceutical dental analgesia. Direct application of clove oil to affected teeth provides rapid, effective pain relief. WHO includes clove oil in its list of essential dental medicines.
Antimicrobial and Antifungal
Moderate evidenceBroad-spectrum activity against bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Particularly effective against oral pathogens. Laboratory studies confirm activity against drug-resistant organisms including MRSA.
Antioxidant Protection
Strong evidenceHighest ORAC antioxidant score of any commonly used spice. Daily culinary use provides extraordinary antioxidant protection.
Common Preparation Methods
Clove Oil for Toothache (Topical)
Dilute 1 drop of clove essential oil in 1 teaspoon of coconut or olive oil (never use undiluted). Apply to affected tooth/gum with a cotton ball.
Dosage: Apply as needed for pain reliefUndiluted clove oil burns tissue — ALWAYS dilute. Effective within 5–10 minutes. A whole clove pressed against the tooth is a gentler alternative. This is a temporary measure — seek dental care for underlying cause.
Culinary Use (Daily Antioxidant)
Add whole or ground cloves to cooking — mulled wine, chai, rice dishes, curries, marinades.
Dosage: 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves daily in foodDaily culinary use provides the extraordinary antioxidant benefit. Ground cloves lose potency quickly — grind whole cloves fresh when possible.
Safety & Cautions
Please read carefully before use
Contraindications
- Undiluted essential oil on skin/mucous membranes — causes burns and necrosis
- Hemophilia or anticoagulant therapy — eugenol inhibits platelet aggregation
- Pregnancy — avoid essential oil in therapeutic doses; culinary amounts are fine
Drug Interactions
- Anticoagulants — eugenol inhibits platelet aggregation; significant interaction
- Pre-surgery — discontinue 2 weeks prior
Possible Side Effects
- Culinary doses: very safe
- Essential oil: skin irritation, mucous membrane burns if undiluted
- Rare: hepatotoxicity with very high essential oil doses
Special Populations
- Safe as a spice in all populations
- Essential oil requires caution and dilution
- Children: use culinary amounts freely; avoid essential oil
Sources & References
Journal of Dental Research
Quick Reference
Myrtaceae
Dried flower buds, Essential oil, Stem oil
Intensely warm, sweet-spicy, powerfully aromatic with a numbing sensation — one of the most distinctive and potent spice flavors in existence
Safety First
Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new remedy, especially if you have existing health conditions or take medications.