You’ve likely used cloves as a warm, aromatic spice in chai, mulled wine, or holiday baking.
But what if you could unlock even greater health benefits — simply by soaking a few cloves in water overnight?
Enter clove water — a simple, traditional remedy gaining modern attention for its powerful healing properties.
Packed with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and essential oils, clove water is more than a detox drink — it’s a natural wellness booster that supports your digestion, immunity, skin, and beyond.
And the best part?
It takes just two ingredients — cloves and water — to make this potent elixir.
Let’s explore 8 surprising benefits of clove water — and why you might want to start drinking it every morning.
What Is Clove Water?
Clove water is made by soaking 2–3 whole cloves in a glass of water overnight (or boiling them for a stronger infusion).
By morning, the water becomes infused with eugenol, antioxidants, and other bioactive compounds released from the cloves.
Drunk on an empty stomach, it’s believed to kickstart metabolism, detoxify the body, and support overall health — with minimal effort and no side effects.
8 Surprising Health Benefits of Clove Water
1. Boosts Digestive Health
Clove water stimulates the secretion of digestive enzymes, helping your stomach break down food more efficiently.
It can:
- Reduce bloating, gas, and indigestion
- Soothe the stomach lining
- Support liver function and bile production
✅ Tip: Drink clove water first thing in the morning for optimal digestive support.
2. Supports Oral Health
Cloves have been used for centuries to relieve toothaches and freshen breath — thanks to their antibacterial and analgesic properties.
Clove water helps:
- Kill harmful oral bacteria
- Reduce gum inflammation and bleeding
- Naturally freshen breath
✅ How to use: Gargle with clove water in the morning or after meals to prevent plaque and bad breath.
3. Strengthens the Immune System
Cloves are one of the richest sources of antioxidants — even more than many fruits and vegetables.
Clove water:
- Neutralizes free radicals that damage cells
- Reduces oxidative stress
- Enhances white blood cell activity
✅ Perfect for: Cold and flu season — a natural way to boost immunity and stay healthy.
4. Relieves Respiratory Issues
If you’re dealing with cough, cold, or mild asthma, clove water can help.
Its anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties:
- Soothe the throat
- Loosen mucus
- Reduce chest congestion
✅ Bonus: The warming effect helps open airways and ease breathing.
5. Promotes Clearer, Healthier Skin
Acne, blackheads, and blemishes often stem from bacteria, inflammation, and internal toxins.
Clove water fights back by:
- Reducing skin inflammation
- Fighting acne-causing bacteria
- Detoxifying the liver — a key organ in skin health
✅ Internal use: Drink daily for glowing skin from within
✅ External use: Dab diluted clove water on acne with a cotton pad (never apply undiluted — it’s strong!)
6. Helps Regulate Blood Sugar Levels
For those with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, clove water may offer natural support.
Studies show that cloves improve insulin sensitivity and help:
- Lower fasting blood sugar
- Prevent sudden spikes after meals
- Support healthy glucose metabolism
⚠️ Note: Always consult your doctor before using clove water as a complement to diabetes treatment.
7. Reduces Joint Pain and Inflammation
Chronic inflammation is a root cause of arthritis, stiffness, and joint pain.
The star compound in cloves — eugenol — is a natural anti-inflammatory and pain reliever.
Drinking clove water regularly may:
- Reduce swelling in joints
- Improve mobility
- Ease morning stiffness
✅ Best time to drink: First thing in the morning, on an empty stomach.
8. Aids in Weight Management
Struggling with cravings or a slow metabolism? Clove water might help.
It can:
- Boost metabolism through thermogenic effects
- Regulate hunger hormones like ghrelin
- Promote a feeling of fullness, reducing snacking
✅ Best practice: Drink a glass 30 minutes before meals to help control appetite.
How to Make Clove Water (2 Easy Methods)
Method 1: Overnight Soak (Gentle Infusion)
- Add 2–3 whole cloves to a glass of water.
- Cover and let it sit overnight (8–10 hours).
- Strain and drink on an empty stomach in the morning.
Method 2: Boiled Infusion (Stronger Effect)
- Boil 1 cup of water.
- Add 2–3 cloves and simmer for 5–10 minutes.
- Let cool, strain, and drink warm or chilled.
💡 Optional: Add a slice of lemon or a dash of honey for flavor.
Precautions & Tips
✅ Limit to 1 glass per day — too much can cause stomach irritation
✅ Do not use if pregnant or breastfeeding — consult a doctor first
✅ Avoid if you have bleeding disorders — cloves have mild blood-thinning properties
✅ Patch test before topical use — eugenol can irritate sensitive skin
✅ Use whole cloves — not clove oil, which is too concentrated for daily drinking
Final Thoughts: A Simple Remedy with Powerful Results
You don’t need expensive supplements or detox juices to support your health.
Sometimes, the most effective remedies are the simplest — like a glass of clove water.
From better digestion to clearer skin, stronger immunity to easier weight management, this humble drink packs a powerful punch.
So tomorrow morning, before your coffee or tea,
Try this ancient elixir.
Sip it slow.
Feel the warmth.
Let your body thank you.
One glass. Eight benefits. A lifetime of wellness — starting today.
