Sometimes the most powerful remedies are hidden in plain sight — right inside your kitchen. Clove water, a simple infusion made from cloves and water, carries centuries of traditional wisdom and modern science that prove its effectiveness. From boosting digestion to fighting inflammation, improving oral health, and even enhancing skin glow, this humble drink deserves a place in your daily routine.
In this article, we’ll uncover the hidden power of clove water, how to prepare it at home, and the many reasons why it can become your natural wellness ally.
What Is Clove Water?
Clove water is an infusion of dried cloves (Syzygium aromaticum) in water, usually prepared by steeping whole cloves in boiled or warm water. This simple recipe extracts the active compound eugenol, which is responsible for clove’s medicinal, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties.
While cloves are widely used as a spice in cooking, turning them into a water-based infusion magnifies their benefits and makes them easier to consume daily as a natural health tonic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The recipe is straightforward and requires only two key ingredients:
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Cloves (whole, 8–10 pieces)
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Rich in antioxidants, essential oils, vitamins, and minerals.
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Filtered water (500 ml / about 2 cups)
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Clean, fresh water helps extract the beneficial compounds effectively.
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(Optional additions for flavor or extra benefits)
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1 teaspoon of honey (natural sweetener + antibacterial properties)
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A slice of lemon (Vitamin C boost)
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A small piece of ginger (anti-inflammatory & digestion aid)
Required Kitchen Tools
To prepare clove water, you’ll need basic kitchen tools:
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Small saucepan (to boil water)
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Wooden spoon (for stirring)
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Strainer (to separate cloves from the liquid)
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Glass jar or mug (for storage or serving)
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
Step 1: Heat the water
Pour 500 ml of filtered water into a saucepan and bring it to a gentle boil.
Step 2: Add the cloves
Once the water is boiling, add 8–10 whole cloves. Stir gently with a wooden spoon.
Step 3: Simmer
Lower the heat and allow the cloves to simmer in the water for 5–7 minutes. This helps release the eugenol and beneficial oils into the water.
Step 4: Cool and steep
Turn off the heat and let the water sit for another 5 minutes to deepen the infusion.
Step 5: Strain and serve
Use a strainer to remove the cloves. Pour the warm clove water into a glass or mug. You can drink it warm or let it cool and refrigerate it for later use.
Step 6: Optional flavoring
Add a spoon of honey, a slice of lemon, or a touch of ginger for enhanced taste and benefits.
Nutritional Value of Clove Water (per 1 cup, approx.)
While exact values vary, here’s an approximate profile of clove water:
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Calories: 10–15 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 2–3 g
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Vitamin C: trace amounts (higher if lemon is added)
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Antioxidants (Eugenol, flavonoids): high
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Minerals (manganese, calcium, magnesium): small but beneficial amounts
⚠️ Note: Clove water is low in calories and acts more like a herbal infusion than a calorie-rich beverage.
The Hidden Power of Clove Water: 12 Benefits
1. Boosts Digestion
Clove water stimulates the production of digestive enzymes, relieves bloating, and reduces acidity. A small glass before meals may help regulate your gut health.
2. Natural Anti-Inflammatory
Eugenol in cloves has proven anti-inflammatory effects, making clove water beneficial for soothing joint pain and reducing internal inflammation.
3. Strengthens Immunity
Rich in antioxidants, clove water helps fight free radicals, protecting your cells and strengthening your immune defenses.
4. Supports Oral Health
Cloves are famous for fighting toothaches. Drinking clove water can reduce bacteria in the mouth, improve breath freshness, and support gum health.
5. Helps Control Blood Sugar
Some studies show that cloves may help regulate blood sugar levels, making clove water a useful drink for people monitoring their glucose.
6. Improves Liver Health
Clove antioxidants protect the liver from oxidative stress and support detoxification processes.
7. Aids in Weight Management
As a low-calorie, metabolism-boosting drink, clove water can be an effective addition to weight-loss diets when paired with exercise and healthy eating.
8. Enhances Skin Glow
By reducing toxins and fighting bacteria, clove water can improve skin clarity and reduce acne breakouts.
9. Natural Antimicrobial Agent
Clove water’s antibacterial and antifungal properties make it a natural way to fight infections and maintain hygiene.
10. Supports Respiratory Health
Drinking clove water can ease throat irritation, reduce cough, and open the airways during seasonal colds.
11. Reduces Stress & Improves Sleep
The aroma of cloves combined with the warm drink can have calming effects, helping reduce anxiety and improve rest.
12. Boosts Circulation
Clove water naturally enhances blood flow, which helps maintain energy levels and supports heart health.
Helpful Tips for Making and Using Clove Water
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Best time to drink: In the morning on an empty stomach for detox benefits, or at night for relaxation.
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Storage: Keep in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Reheat before drinking if desired.
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Dosage: 1–2 cups per day is enough. Overconsumption may cause acidity.
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Flavoring: Mix with lemon, honey, or ginger to enhance taste and benefits.
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Skin application: Cooled clove water can also be used as a natural toner for acne-prone skin.
Safety and Precautions
While clove water is generally safe, be mindful of the following:
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Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before regular use.
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People with bleeding disorders should avoid excessive intake (cloves may thin the blood).
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Always consume in moderation — too much can cause acidity or stomach upset.
Conclusion
Clove water is more than just a kitchen remedy — it’s a natural powerhouse with benefits that range from better digestion to improved immunity, glowing skin, and stronger overall health. Simple to prepare, low in calories, and full of antioxidants, it’s one of the easiest ways to bring traditional wellness into your modern lifestyle.
