Clove tea is a warm, aromatic drink made by steeping whole cloves in hot water. Cloves contain eugenol, a plant compound with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. While clove tea can be a pleasant addition to a healthy diet, it isn’t a treatment for medical conditions.
1. Rich in antioxidants
Cloves contain antioxidant compounds that help protect cells from oxidative stress. Including antioxidant-rich foods and drinks in your diet can support overall health.
2. May support digestion
Clove tea is traditionally used after meals because its aromatic compounds may help with digestive comfort. Some people find it soothing when experiencing occasional gas or bloating.
3. May help soothe a sore throat
Warm clove tea can provide temporary soothing comfort for an irritated throat. Cloves also contain compounds with antimicrobial activity, although drinking clove tea should not be considered a treatment for an infection.
4. May support oral health
Eugenol, one of the main compounds in cloves, has antimicrobial properties and has long been associated with traditional dental care. Clove tea may contribute to oral freshness, but it shouldn’t replace brushing, flossing, or professional dental care.
5. May support healthy blood sugar
Some laboratory and preliminary research suggests compounds in cloves may influence glucose metabolism. However, evidence that drinking clove tea meaningfully lowers blood sugar in people is limited.
6. May have anti-inflammatory properties
Cloves contain plant compounds that have demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity in laboratory research. This may contribute to their potential health benefits, but more human research is needed.
7. A naturally warming, caffeine-free drink
Clove tea is naturally caffeine-free when made from cloves and water. Its spicy aroma makes it a comforting alternative to caffeinated beverages, particularly in the evening.
8. May support general wellness
Because cloves contain several plant compounds, including eugenol and other antioxidants, moderate consumption can be part of a varied, nutritious diet.
How to Make Clove Tea
Ingredients
- 1 cup (240 ml) water
- 3–4 whole cloves
- ½ teaspoon honey, optional
- A small piece of cinnamon or a slice of fresh ginger, optional
Method
- Bring 1 cup of water to a boil.
- Add 3–4 whole cloves.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for about 5–10 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and let the tea steep for another 2–3 minutes.
- Strain the cloves.
- Add honey if desired and serve warm.
Best time to drink clove tea
There isn’t a medically established “best” time to drink it. Many people enjoy it after a meal for its warming, aromatic qualities. Start with a small amount to see how you tolerate it.
Important safety note
Cloves are safe as a culinary spice for most people, but concentrated clove oil or very large amounts of cloves can be harmful. People taking blood-thinning medication, those with bleeding disorders, people preparing for surgery, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, and anyone with a relevant medical condition should ask a healthcare professional before consuming concentrated clove preparations regularly.
Bottom line: Clove tea can be a flavorful, caffeine-free drink with antioxidant and potentially anti-inflammatory properties, but many claimed medicinal benefits of clove tea still need stronger human evidence.