Chewing cloves daily may provide numerous health benefits due to their rich eugenol, antioxidants, and essential minerals. While cloves are safe to eat in small quantities, consult a healthcare professional before incorporating them into your routine, especially if you have allergies or a medical condition. Here are seven evidence-based benefits:
Improves Oral Health: The antimicrobial properties of eugenol in cloves help reduce plaque and gum disease-causing bacteria, freshen breath, and provide natural relief from toothaches when chewed directly.
Provides Powerful Antioxidant Protection: Cloves are rich in antioxidants like eugenol and flavonoids, which fight free radicals, reduce oxidative stress, and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer. Fights Infection and Boosts Immunity: Its antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral compounds, including eugenol, may help fight pathogens like E. coli and H. pylori, strengthening the immune system and preventing respiratory or oral infections.
Controls Blood Sugar Levels: Compounds in cloves mimic insulin and improve sensitivity, helping to reduce post-meal glucose spikes and better manage diabetes or prediabetes when consumed daily.
Aids Digestion and Gut Health: Chewing cloves stimulates digestive enzymes, relieving bloating, gas, and indigestion, while its fiber and anti-inflammatory effects promote healthy gut motility and prevent ulcers.
Reduces inflammation and relieves pain: Eugenol acts as a natural anti-inflammatory, reducing joint pain, muscle aches, headaches, and stress-related discomfort, making it beneficial for conditions like arthritis. Supports bone health: Manganese-rich cloves support bone formation, density, and metabolism, which may help prevent osteoporosis and maintain overall bone strength.