What is Clove Essential Oil?

Clove essential oil is a derivative extracted by steam distillation from the dried flower buds of clove, Eugenia caryophyllata L. Merr. & Perry (Myrtaceae family).

The oil is pale yellow in color and has a medium consistency, and its middle note aroma is strong, spicy, warm and woody.

Clove essential oil blends well with basil, bergamot, black pepper, cinnamon, clary sage, grapefruit, lavender, lemon, orange, peppermint, rose, rosemary, wintergreen and ylang ylang essential oils.

About Clove Tree (Eugenia caryophyllata)

Native to Indonesia and Madagascar, the clove can be found in nature, unopened, like pink flower buds.

Once picked by hand, the buds are dried until they turn brown and, after grinding, the powder is used in the kitchen or becomes an essential oil for various medicinal purposes.

Unlike most other spices, cloves can be grown year-round. For native tribes that use it, it is a clear advantage and a gift from nature, since the health benefits can be easily taken advantage of.

Fresh clove flower buds

During the time of the ancient Greeks and Romans, clove oil was used to relieve toothaches and to combat bad breath.

We also find it in Chinese medicine with the same purpose.

Nowadays, clove oil is known for its oral health benefits. Clove essential oil, which has been approved as a dental anesthetic and as a mouthwash, can help to alleviate toothaches, as well as fight infections of the mouth and throat. It is also added to some pharmaceutical and dental products.

Chemical Composition of Clove Essential Oil

The main constituents of clove essential oil are: eugenol up to 85%, b-caryophyllene, eugenyl acetate, a-caryophyllene, isoeugenol and methyleugenol, among others.

Antioxidant properties of Clove Essential Oil

Secondly, only after the raw sumac, the ground clove has the amazing ORAC value of 290.283 units. That value per gram means that the clove contains 30 times more antioxidants than blueberries, which have a value of 9.621.

In short, antioxidants are molecules that reverse the damage caused by free radicals including cell death and cancer. Research has shown that antioxidants slow down aging and cellular degeneration, and protect the body against bacteria and viruses.

Due to its high level of eugenol and antioxidants, clove essential oil is also one of the main “protective” herbs, used in multiple blends of essential oils.

History tells us that clove essential oil was one of the main oils that protected people from catching the bubonic plague in Europe.

As a curious fact, a group of thieves was captured by the king and asked why they were not sick or dead from exposure to the plague. They answered that they were covered with a mixture of protective oils that included cinnamon oil and clove oil.

For this reason, adding clove essential oil to your health regime could be good for naturally increasing antioxidant levels. For long-term use, cinnamon is another great herb that you can add to your daily diet to increase your intake of antioxidants.

If you want to take advantage of the benefits of clove essential oil, consider spreading it at home to clean the air. Apply to the gums for a toothache and use it in personal care products such as deodorants and toothpaste. Additionally, if you are exposed to people with colds or flu, blend clove oil with coconut oil and rubbed on the neck and chest to obtain a natural antioxidant protection.

12 Uses of Clove Essential Oil

The Chinese have used the clove for more than 2,000 years as a fragrance and spice, and they came to the international health scene, several hundred years later. Since then, clove oil has been incorporated into numerous products for agricultural and cosmetic purposes.

The most interesting properties of clove essential oil, however, are related to its wide application in natural homeopathic medicine.

Thanks to its high content of eugenol, clove essential oil has proven to be extraordinarily versatile, and has been thoroughly researched as an effective alternative to many modern medical treatments.

In addition to its positive effects in the field of dental care, it can also be used as a treatment for minor health problems.

Some of the most common uses of this magnificent oil are:

1. Acne

To evaluate its effectiveness as an antibacterial agent, researchers from the University of Buenos Aires in Argentina, set out to determine which bacteria are most sensitive to the potency of clove essential oil. According to the study, clove oil has the highest antimicrobial capacity on E. coli and also exerts considerable control over the golden staphylococcus, which causes acne and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which causes pneumonia.

As a natural remedy to eliminate acne, mix 3 drops of clove essential oil with 2 teaspoons of raw honey. Wash your face with the mixture.

You can also try tea tree essential oil to combat acne, the best on this field.

2. Candidiasis

One of the powerful properties of clove is its action against candida or candidiasis, a problem that continues to affect many people, due to the high amounts of sugar in their diets.

The journal Oral Microbiology and Immunology, published a study in which it was observed that the clove was as effective as Nystatin, a medicine commonly prescribed to treat fungal infections of the mouth (thrush) and which has a series of unpleasant side effects.

In addition to eliminating candidiasis, clove essential oil is an effective treatment eradicating intestinal parasites in the short term. To do a candida cleansing, you can take the clove oil internally for 2 weeks but it is recommended to do it under the care of a doctor or nutritionist.

Also, for a better result, you should consume large amounts of foods rich in probiotics and eliminate sugar and processed grains for a while.

3. Helps digestion

Clove has beneficial properties that help relax the lining of smooth muscle in the gastrointestinal tract. When used as an oil, it can help stop digestive problems such as nausea and vomiting.

4. Skin Care

When applied topically, it can help solve skin problems such as warts, acne, sagging skin and wrinkles.

5. Toothache

The well-known remedy for using clove essential oil to treat toothache, was first documented in 1640 in the French book “Practical Physics”, although, there is reason to believe that the Chinese already used this homeopathic remedy more than 2,000 years ago.

Nowadays, clove essential oil is widely accepted as a reliable solution for alveolitis and to relieve pain and discomfort associated with various dental disorders.

Journal of Dentistry, for example, published a study in 2006 that shows that clove essential oil had the same numbing effect as benzocaine, a topical agent commonly used before surgery. For this reason, you can use clove oil for teething in infants by mixing it with coconut oil and rubbing on the gums.

In addition, research has suggested that clove oil has even more profound effects. The Department of Public Health of Dentistry of India recently conducted a study that assesses the ability of clove essential oil to slow the decalcification of teeth (or “tooth erosion”) by comparing eugenol, eugenyl-acetate, fluoride and a control group .

Not only did clove oil top the list by decreasing decalcification, it was also observed that it significantly remineralizes teeth.

This study highlights, once again, that the supposed benefits of fluoridation of our water supply and conventional dental products are not a risk worth taking.

6. Insect repellent

When used together with citrus essential oils, clove essential oil can help, keep insects away.

7. Expectorant

Clove essential oil is also used to ease the relief of respiratory problems such as coughs, colds, sinusitis, asthma and tuberculosis. In fact, it is said that chewing a piece of clove bud, helps soothe a sore throat.

8. Antiseptic

The biological activity of clove essential oil has been investigated on several microorganisms and parasites, including pathogenic bacteria, Herpes simplex and hepatitis C viruses, which have shown promising results to combat them,

That is why it is usually applied topically to treat fungal infections, wounds and cuts. It is also a common treatment for athlete’s foot.

9. Perfume ingredient

Clove essential oil, for its strong and unique aroma, is used in honeysuckle, rose and carnation perfumes.

10. Flavoring

This use is given because of its unique and intense fragrance.

11. Ingredient for soaps

The clove oil is used in soaps not only for its aroma, but also for its antiseptic and relaxing qualities.

12. Massage oil

Clove essential oil can be used to relieve muscle pain, stress and pain caused by rheumatism or similar joint conditions.

Properties of Clove Essential Oil

Clove essential oil owes much of its health benefits to eugenol, one of its main compounds, which constitutes 90% of the oil. Eugenol provides powerful antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.

In addition to its anti-inflamatory and antiseptic effects, clove essential oil possesses antimicrobial, antioxidant, antifungal, antiviral, cytotoxic, aphrodisiac, stimulant, insect repellent and anaesthetic properties.

Clove oil is also responsible for preventing tooth decay, as well as for fighting tooth aches, gum aches, mouth ulcers, and bad breath.

There are also other spice oils that contain eugenol (such as cinnamon, basil and nutmeg oil), which are added to dental products, insect repellents, perfumes, food and even pharmaceutical products.

Eugenol, also makes clove essential oil have stimulating properties, that make it a popular choice among aromatherapy practitioners.

One of its many benefits is its ability to stimulate metabolism, helping to improve blood circulation and lower body temperature. It can also contribute to digestive health and deal with problems such as hiccups, indigestion, dizziness and excess gas.

Benefits of Clove Essential Oil

Clove essential oil is also considerably rich in manganese and other nutrients such as potassium, magnesium and calcium, which are used to prevent and treat osteoporosis, anemia and menstrual pain.

Other benefits that clove oil offers us is that it can help relieve stress and decrease mental exhaustion. There are those who use it to deal with neuronal health problems, such as depression and anxiety.

On the other hand, according to several studies, clove oil shows to be an excellent alternative to help in the management of neurodegenerative diseases.

The clove oil, can also function as an aphrodisiac and a treatment for insomnia.

Some other benefits of clove essential oil include:

Fights acne and viral skin infections.
Eliminates parasites.
Improves blood circulation and cardiovascular health.
Reduces teeth and gum disease, while promotes oral health.
Increases energy levels.
Treats bacterial and fungal Infections.
Eliminates warts.
Alleviates rheumatism and muscle pain.
Fights flu, colds and bronchitis.
Relieves tired and aching limbs.
Eases nausea, flatulence and stomach cramps.
Helps to cure scabies and ringworm.
Natural anti-inflammatory.
Kills mold and fungi.
Strengthens the immune system.

How to apply Clove Essential Oil?

Clove essential oil is intended to be applied topically. When blended with a carrier oil such as coconut oil, almond oil, apricot kernel oil, etc. it can function as a massage oil.

For the treatment of respiratory diseases, clove essential oil can be used by vapor inhalation. It can also be blended with skin care products to improve its benefits.

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Tea Tree Essential Oil Uses, Benefits and Warnings

Here you will find some tips for its application:

Mix 2 drops with a carrier oil and massage the abdomen to relieve digestive discomfort. You can also add 3 to 5 drops in warm water to help relieve intestinal problems.

Use 2 drops of clove essential oil in steam inhalation to relieve mucus and loosen phlegm. You can also add 2 drops to your gel or decongestant ointment and rub on the chest, back and throat.

Add 2 drops of clove oil to your topical care products. This can help accelerate the healing of wounds, cuts, bruises and even athlete’s foot.

Blend 3 drops of clove oil with 2ml of a carrier oil and massage into the affected area to experience its analgesic action.

Add a drop of diluted clove essential oil (use coconut oil or olive oil to dilute) to a cotton ball. It is an infallible remedy to relieve toothache or gum pain. Press the cotton ball on the affected area for about 10 or 15 minutes. You can also add 2 drops of clove oil to a cup of hot water and use it to gargle.

2 drops of clove essential oil diluted in a diffuser or vaporizer, can keep insects away. By blended 2 or 3 drops of clove oil with a skin care product you can also create a repellent.

Is Clove Essential Oil safe?

Using clove essential oil undiluted, can cause serious skin problems. To avoid this, the oil must be blended with a carrier oil such as jojoba, rosehip, coconut or olive oil before application.

For topical applications, it is recommended to perform a patch test to rule out allergic reactions or unwanted effects.

Clove oil is considered a dangerous sensitizer in some individuals, since high concentrations of eugenol can irritate the mucosa, cause dermatitis and other skin problems. It should never be used on damaged skin.

In some cases, essential oils can lead to photosensitivity. For example, exposure to the sun after the application of pure clove oil can cause severe burns or the spread of viral lesions.

People who use anticoagulants and aspirin should avoid clove essential oil, as it can decrease the activity of platelets.

Clove essential oil can also cause a decrease in blood glucose. Therefore, diabetic patients should be very careful when using it.

People with liver or kidney disease should also refrain from using clove essential oil.

For young children and pregnant or breastfeeding women, the use of clove oil should be under the supervision of a qualified therapist.

It is best to stay away from any clove product if you are allergic.

Side effects of Clove Essential Oil

Despite its many health benefits, we advise everyone, and especially beginners, to use clove essential oil with moderation.

While eugenol offers many beneficial properties, it can also induce allergic effects. That is why it should be used gradually and in small amounts.

For example, ingesting the oil orally in its undiluted form can cause nausea, vomiting, sore throat, seizures and even blood problems.

Also, it can end up causing breathing difficulties, as well as rashes and itching.

The repeated use of clove oil to cure acne problems can cause damage to the skin and leave permanent marks. The risk is greater if the skin is exposed to the sun with the oil applied on it.

Where to buy Clove Essential Oil?

As is usual, good quality essential oils, that is, 100% pure and not mixed with other substances, can be found in specialized natural herb stores.

If you can not reach a trusted naturist or herbalist shop near you, here a recommendation:

Clove Bud Essential Oil

Scent Characteristics: Spicy, warming, slightly fruity and woody scent, reminiscent of true clove buds.

Our 100% Pure Essential Oils are extracted from the root, bark, wood, seed, fruit, leaf, or flower of a freshly harvested plant.
We source only the finest quality essential oils from highly regarded suppliers and distillers from around the world, many with whom we’ve worked with for decades.
Many of our oils are steam-distilled or cold-pressed, therefore retaining the essential odor, aroma, taste, medicinal, and therapeutic properties of the plant, resulting in a superior quality, and highly concentrated essence. Shop Here or by clicking on the image.

Tips for a better performance and duration of your oils:

Store them in a dark glass bottle, never plastic, not even when blended with a carrier oil.
Keep them in cool, dark places, away from sources of heat and light.
Maintain the container that holds it tightly closed, since they are very volatile and also, their properties would be lost or modified.