TikTok and Instagram are full of health trends and clove water is one that has become popular over the years. Many wellness trends become popular because they promise simple solutions. Clove water has some qualities that make it attractive online.
Influencers claim it can help with everything from digestion and weight loss to reduced inflammation and blood sugar. But does clove water really work or is it mostly just hype?
The answer is a bit more complicated. Cloves have compounds that might support health. But drinking clove water is not a miracle and some online claims go beyond what research shows.
Here’s what you should know before adding clove water to your morning routine.
What are cloves?
Cloves come from the dried flower buds of the clove tree, which is an evergreen plant called Syzgium aromaticum. Harvesters pick the buds before they open and then dry them until they turn dark brown and hard.
Cloves have a very strong, warm flavor. You can find them in many holiday baked goods, spiced drinks and savory dishes. People have also used cloves in traditional medicine for centuries.
“The spice contains natural compounds such as vitamin K, potassium, beta carotene and especially one called eugenol, which researchers have studied for its possible antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antioxidant effects,” said Tiffone Powers-Parker, MS, RD, a dietitian and nutritionist at Banner Health. “It’s a simple traditional remedy that has been used in medicine across Asia, the Middle East and Europe.”
What is clove water?
Clove water is exactly what it sounds like: water infused with cloves. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
“Clove water is a milder, more balanced way to enjoy cloves compared to chewing the whole clove,” Powers-Parker said. “It lets you experience the flavor and some plant compounds without the intensity of raw cloves.”
Two common methods to make clove water include:
- Overnight soak: Place four or five cloves in a glass of water (about one cup or 250 ml). Cover and let soak for eight to 12 hours, then strain and drink. Store any leftovers in the fridge.
- Simmered infusion: Add five or six cloves to one cup of water and bring to a gentle simmer (small bubbles, not a rolling boil). Simmer for five to 30 minutes, depending on taste, then strain and drink warm.
What does research actually say about cloves?
Research shows that cloves and clove oil (plant extracts) provide health benefits. However, there is little research on how clove water affects health.
Cloves are rich in antioxidants
Cloves are one of the spices with the most antioxidants. They contain plant compounds like polyphenols, flavonoids and gallic acid. These compounds help fight harmful molecules called free radicals.
“Antioxidants protect cells from damage caused by oxidative stress and may boost immune function,” Powers-Parker said. “These antioxidants may support overall wellness but they work best as part of a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole foods."
Potential digestive support
Cloves have been used in traditional remedies to ease digestive problems.
“Clove water might help digestion by boosting digestive enzymes, assisting in the breakdown of bile acid and relaxing the GI tract,” Powers-Parker said. “Some people find it helpful for bloating after a heavy meal.”
While its use is common, more studies with people drinking clove water are needed to confirm these effects.
Anti-inflammatory properties
The eugenol in cloves has anti-inflammatory effects. Lab studies suggest it might help lower inflammation in the body.
“Some people think clove water can ease muscle tension or joint pain," Powers-Parker said. "But most research has been done in labs or on animals, not humans."
This means clove water might have small amounts of anti-inflammatory compounds but it shouldn't replace medical treatments. Staying healthy with regular exercise, good sleep and a balanced diet is more important for controlling inflammation.
Possible antibacterial effects
Cloves contain natural antibacterial properties. Eugenol helps slow down the growth of some bacteria in laboratory settings. This is why you can find clove oil in dental products and mouth rinses. However, drinking clove water probably doesn't have strong antibacterial effects inside the body.
Clove oil can also be used on the skin and is useful as an insect repellent safe for both humans and animals.
What clove water cannot do
Social media often makes natural remedies seem more effective than they really are. "Clove water has become popular online but we don’t have solid human clinical trials to prove many of the claims,” Powers-Parker said. “It can be part of a healthy lifestyle but it’s not a cure-all.”
For example, there is no evidence that clove water can:
- Detox the body
- Cause significant weight loss
- Burn belly fat
- Cure infections
- Replace prescribed medications
“Your body already has a powerful detox system: your liver and kidneys,” Powers-Parker said. “These organs filter waste and toxins every day. Drinks like clove water do not cleanse your body in the way many influencers suggest.”
Is clove water safe?
Drinking clove water every day in large amounts is not well studied, so it’s best to drink in moderation.
“Cloves are strong, so more is not always better,” Powers-Parker said. “There is no need to drink clove water more than two or three times a week.”
Cloves contain strong natural oils. Large amounts may irritate the stomach or cause other problems.
Possible side effects include:
- Stomach irritation
- Heartburn
- Nausea
- Mouth or throat irritation
Possible medication interactions
Cloves can interact with some medications. This is because eugenol can affect blood clotting and may increase the risk of bleeding when mixed with certain medicines.
Talk to your health care provider before using any clove products if you take:
- Blood thinners
- Aspirin
- Certain pain relievers
- Insulin or other diabetes medications
- Medications that affect blood clotting
Who should avoid clove water?
You should avoid clove water or talk with your health care provider first if you are:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding
- Taking blood-thinning medications
- Preparing for surgery
- Sensitive to spices
- Considering giving it to children
“Children should never consume concentrated clove oil,” Powers-Parker said. “Even small amounts can be dangerous.”
Red flags to watch for
Even natural remedies can cause reactions in some people. Stop drinking clove water and talk to your provider if you experience symptoms such as:
- Itching or allergic reactions
- Shortness of breath
- Severe stomach pain
- Worsening heartburn or acid reflux
People with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may see their symptoms get worse.
“Because the amount of active compound varies from batch to batch, it’s hard to know exactly how much you’re getting,” Powers-Parker said. “It’s best to start slowly and see how your body responds.”
Should you try clove water?
If you decide to try clove water, Powers-Parker has these tips:
- Start slowly: Observe how your body reacts and adjust accordingly.
- Use whole cloves: Whole cloves control the strength of the infusion. Ground cloves can make the drink much more concentrated.
- Avoid excessive sweeteners: Although honey can be added, it’s best to keep the drink simple.
- Try variations: Flavor combinations like clove with ginger, lemon, cinnamon or turmeric can add variety.
“You can drink clove water after meals to help with digestion or in the morning to boost your metabolism,” Powers-Parker said. “However, if you are sensitive to spices, avoid drinking it on an empty stomach.”
Takeaway
Clove water contains plant compounds that act as antioxidants, fight bacteria, and reduce inflammation. However, there is limited evidence that drinking clove water actually helps. It is a trendy, low-risk drink for most adults but it is not a cure-all.
Moderation and safety matters. Small amounts of clove water along with a balanced diet, regular exercise and advice from your health care provider is the best way to stay healthy for the long run.
FAQ
Q: Can clove water help me lose weight?
A: Not significantly. Any weight support is indirect through improved digestion and blood sugar control. It cannot replace diet or exercise.
Q: Is clove water safe for children?
A: Children should avoid concentrated clove products. Small amounts in food are safer than drinking infusions.
Q: Can I drink clove water daily
A: If you choose to drink clove water, only occasional use (two to three times per week) is recommended. Continuous daily use may increase side effects.
Q: Can clove water interact with medications?
A: Yes. Blood thinners, aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and diabetes medications may interact. Always check with a health care provider.
