Health Benefits of Clove Water for Blood Sugar and Inflammation

Cloves, widely recognized as a traditional remedy for toothaches and minor pains, contain compounds with mild numbing and anti-inflammatory properties. They have been speculated to play a role in reducing blood sugar and inflammation, but research supporting these claims remains limited.

Clove Water's Impact on Health

Cloves contain eugenol, a plant compound praised for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Early research suggests potential benefits of eugenol in regulating glucose metabolism, such as lowering glucose levels, improving cholesterol, and safeguarding organs like the liver and kidneys from the ravages of high blood sugar. However, experts remain cautious about these assertions.

Julie Stefanski, MEd, RDN, LDN, a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, explains the limitations: “It's a stretch to claim that consuming clove water or chewing cloves delivers the same benefits as isolated components of cloves.” Though cloves are rich in antioxidants that counteract harmful free radicals, they are not the optimal choice for reducing inflammation.

Current Research on Cloves

Most studies conducted have used animal models or in vitro settings with highly concentrated forms of cloves, rather than clove water or the whole spice. A small, initial human study showed a minor reduction in blood sugar with clove consumption compared to a placebo, though not significant enough to be deemed clinically relevant. Another 2019 study found that individuals taking 250 mg of clove extract daily for 30 days noted substantial reductions in blood glucose levels. Still, these studies employed concentrated extracts, casting doubt on clove water or whole cloves significantly impacting blood sugar.

Further research is needed to fully understand the health benefits of clove water.

Are There Risks to Consuming Cloves?

For healthy adults, clove water or chewing cloves is unlikely to cause adverse effects. Isabella Gastro, RDN, CDCES, cautions though that at higher concentrations, especially as oils, cloves can pose severe health hazards, including liver and kidney damage, increased bleeding risk, and even seizures or coma. Children are particularly vulnerable, and even small amounts can lead to seizures and liver damage. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should be careful due to insufficient data on their effects. The primary concern is replacing clove water or cloves for established medical treatments.

Healthier Alternatives for Blood Sugar and Inflammation

While clove water might provide antioxidants and flavor, Grace Derocha, a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, emphasizes foods proven to support blood sugar and reduce inflammation:

- Leafy vegetables: Options like kale and broccoli are fiber-rich, slowing sugar absorption.

- Berries: Known for their antioxidants, they help combat inflammation.

- Whole grains: These sustain steady blood sugar through fiber content.

- Omega-3-rich foods: Items like salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds help decrease inflammation.

Derocha adds, “A Mediterranean-style diet, rich in vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, healthy fats, and lean proteins, offers the strongest evidence for managing blood sugar and reducing inflammation over the long term.”