Why Chew Cloves? And What Benefits Does It Bring?
The phrase “chewing cloves” might sound a bit exotic—perhaps not exactly appetizing—but believe it or not, this age-old practice carries multiple health benefits for our bodies. From digestion to oral health, clove chewing has a range of positive effects that are worth knowing about. Below, we explore why people chew cloves, what benefits they may expect, and also what cautions to keep in mind.
🌿 The Benefits of Chewing Cloves
1. Improves Digestion
One of the most well-known benefits of chewing cloves is that it helps digestion. Clove essential oil contains compounds that stimulate the production of digestive enzymes. These enzymes break down food more effectively, helping to relieve issues like indigestion, gas, bloating, or a feeling of heaviness after eating. If you chew a small piece of clove after meals, it can soothe the stomach and support smoother digestive function.
2. Supports Liver Function
Your liver is your body’s primary filter, detoxifying blood and neutralizing harmful compounds every day. Clove oil possesses antioxidant properties that assist the liver in its workload. By reducing oxidative stress and liver inflammation, chewing cloves may help the liver perform more efficiently and guard against damage from toxins and free radicals.
3. Promotes Oral and Gum Health
Clove has strong antiseptic and antimicrobial properties—one reason it’s even used in dentistry, occasionally as a component of temporary fillings or topical treatments. Chewing cloves can act as a natural mouthwash: it helps inhibit bacterial growth in the mouth, reduces gum inflammation, and freshens breath. This makes clove chewing a helpful habit for maintaining gum and overall oral health.
4. Boosts Energy and Metabolism
Another intriguing effect of clove chewing is its potential to boost metabolic rate. The stimulating compounds in clove may prompt faster metabolic processes, giving you a subtle energy lift—sometimes considered more beneficial than just drinking a cup of coffee. However, because of its stimulating effect, it’s best used by individuals with normal blood pressure, to avoid excessive internal stimulation or stress on the cardiovascular system.
⚠️ Precautions & Contraindications
While clove chewing is beneficial, it’s not without risks. Here are some safety notes to consider:
Bleeding Risk: If you are experiencing any form of bleeding, avoid chewing cloves. Their compounds can exacerbate bleeding, especially in situations like ulcers, nosebleeds, or after dental procedures.
Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia): Clove oil can reduce glucose levels by inhibiting glucose production. If you already have low blood sugar—or take medications that lower it—chewing too many cloves may trigger hypoglycemia.
Allergies or Sensitivities: Some individuals may have allergic reactions or unexpected sensitivities to clove or its constituents. Watch for signs like itching, swelling, or upset stomach. If you notice any adverse symptoms, cease use immediately.
Not a Substitute for Medical Treatment: This article is for informational purposes only. Do not self-diagnose or self-medicate using cloves alone. Always consult a qualified medical professional before applying anything new or using clove chewing as a health remedy—especially if you have ongoing medical conditions, are pregnant, or are using medications.
🧩 How to Safely Chew Cloves: Practical Tips
If you plan to try chewing cloves, here’s how to do it safely and effectively:
Use whole cloves, not clove powder, so that you control the intensity.
Start with ½ to 1 small clove and chew gently for a minute or two.
Limit total daily use to a few cloves (e.g. 1–3) to avoid overexposure.
Avoid if you have ulcers, bleeding disorders, or very low blood pressure.
Do not rely purely on cloves—maintain a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle in parallel.
🧠 The Takeaway
Chewing cloves is a time-tested practice that brings multiple benefits: improved digestion, better liver support, enhanced oral health, and a subtle metabolic boost. But like any natural remedy, it must be used wisely, especially by people with medical conditions.
