What Happens to Your Body When You Drink Clove Water Every Day

Clove extract contains compounds that act as antioxidants and have an antimicrobial effect. Although the evidence is limited, drinking water infused with this spice may help support blood sugar and reduce inflammation, among other potential benefits.

1. You Have Less Oxidative Stress

The distinct flavor and aroma of cloves are derived from polyphenols, plant compounds that have been found to boost health. They’re especially rich in eugenol and contain gallic acid, which has antioxidant properties.

Antioxidants neutralize free radicals (unstable molecules) that contribute to oxidative stress, a chemical imbalance that damages cells and contributes to chronic diseases and cancer. The eugenol in clove water may help reduce oxidative stress.

That said, most research has focused on antioxidants in clove extracts, rather than clove water. In addition, it’s preliminary, with many studies relying on animal data. However, in one study, researchers found a link between the antioxidant activity of clove extract in water and a lower risk of COVID-19 infection in humans.

2. Your Oral Health Gets a Boost

Clove can freshen breath and support oral health. Numerous studies found that eugenol and other polyphenols in cloves have anti-bacterial properties. They can help eliminate the bacteria in the mouth that cause bad breath, plaque, tartar, gum disease, and tooth decay.

Studies examining clove essential oils—though not clove water—found them effective against bacteria that cause severe gum disease, also known as periodontitis. One study found that regularly using mouthwash containing clove, tea tree oil, and basil reduced levels of these bacteria.

3. Your Blood Sugar May Benefit

Several studies have found clove extracts to be effective in managing blood sugar (glucose) levels. In a small study, adults with and without pre-diabetes taking daily clove extract for 30 days had lower blood sugar levels after meals. Researchers believe that the polyphenols in cloves inhibit a liver enzyme that converts glucose into a form ready for use as energy in the liver.

This suggests that clove compounds may help individuals with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar levels.

That said, the studies thus far are mostly preliminary and haven’t examined regular clove water consumption. Discuss with your healthcare provider ways to manage your blood sugar levels.    

4. You May Experience Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Inflammation is the body’s natural immune response, helping cells fight off disease and heal the body. Researchers have linked chronic inflammation—when it persists without infection or injury—to cellular damage and chronic diseases, including arthritis, heart disease, and many others.

Studies in cell cultures (in vitro) and animals suggest that eugenol, found in cloves, has anti-inflammatory properties. They disrupt the production of chemicals and hormones that raise inflammation.

Since the research has focused on highly concentrated extracts, there is little evidence that drinking clove water has this effect.  

Cloves and Nutrition

Along with eugenol and the other polyphenolic compounds, cloves contain some nutrients and minerals. One teaspoon of ground clove contains:

• Calories: 6
• Protein: Less than 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 1 g
• Fat: Less than 1 g
• Fiber: 0.7 g
• Manganese: 1.26 milligrams (mg), about 55% the recommended daily intake for adults

How Much Clove Water Is Safe to Drink?

Clove water poses little risk to healthy adults. However, consuming oils or extracts is another story.

Ingestion of 10 to 30 milliliters (ml) of clove essential oil—much more than what’s in water—can cause liver damage and overdose. Symptoms include seizures and loss of consciousness. Consuming less than 682 milligrams per pound of body weight per day is considered safe.

That said, clove isn’t recommended for specific populations and in some instances, including:

• During pregnancy or nursing: Limit or avoid consumption as the safety hasn’t been established for pregnant or nursing people.
• Taking medications: Eugenol may interact with how well certain medications, such as insulin and blood thinners, work. If you’re taking medications, ask your healthcare provider if clove water is safe to consume before starting.
• Bleeding disorders: Eugenol can impact how well blood clots and should be avoided if you have hemophilia or a bleeding disorder. Avoid consumption before surgery.