Cloves may help support digestion and are sometimes used to ease occasional bloating after meals. Clove-derived ingredients are also found in some dental products because eugenol has soothing properties, although persistent tooth pain still requires professional dental care.
One simple way to enjoy cloves is as tea by simmering a few whole cloves in water for about ten minutes. They can also be added to meals for flavor, while concentrated clove oils and homemade extracts should be used more cautiously.
Cloves are generally safe in normal cooking amounts, but excessive use or concentrated clove oil may cause problems. Pregnant or breastfeeding people, those with medical conditions, or anyone considering concentrated herbal preparations should consult a healthcare professional first.
