Swallowing large amounts of clove oil can also be dangerous.
Natural does not automatically mean harmless.
Who Should Be Careful With Cloves?
Cloves are generally considered safe when consumed in normal culinary amounts.
However, concentrated clove products may have stronger effects and may not be appropriate for everyone.
People who are pregnant or breastfeeding, children, people taking medications that affect blood clotting, and anyone with a known allergy should seek appropriate medical advice before using concentrated clove preparations.
People with medical conditions should also avoid replacing prescribed treatment with herbal remedies without discussing it with a healthcare professional.
How Can You Include Cloves in Your Diet?
There are many simple ways to enjoy cloves in normal food quantities.
You can add small amounts to:
- Tea
- Coffee
- Rice dishes
- Soups
- Stews
- Baked goods
- Fruit dishes
- Spice blends
Using cloves as a culinary spice is generally a safer approach than consuming large quantities of concentrated clove oil or supplements.
The Bottom Line
Cloves are an aromatic spice containing eugenol and other plant compounds with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.
They have a long history of traditional use, particularly for digestive discomfort and tooth pain.
However, traditional use should not be confused with proven medical treatment.
