Cloves are the aromatic, dried flower buds of the evergreen tree Syzygium aromaticum, native to the Maluku Islands in Indonesia. This spice has a distinct, strong flavor profile that is warm, sweet, and intensely pungent, largely due to its high concentration of the compound eugenol. Chewing the whole spice is a practice with a long history, dating back to ancient China where it was used to perfume breath during audiences with the emperor. This traditional method of consuming the whole bud has persisted, offering a natural and immediate way to freshen the mouth.
Selecting and Preparing Cloves for Chewing
Choosing high-quality cloves is important because their potency relates directly to the concentration of essential oils they contain. Look for whole, reddish-brown buds that have a slightly oily or glossy surface, which indicates a high retention of those oils. The best cloves have an intact, bulbous head and a sturdy stem, resembling a small nail, and should not appear dull, broken, or grayish.
Freshness is confirmed by a strong, sweet, and pungent aroma; a faint scent suggests the oils have dissipated. Minimal preparation is necessary, perhaps lightly cracking the hard outer shell to invite the release of eugenol. A whole clove is preferable to ground versions, as the concentrated powder can be overly harsh and irritating to the sensitive tissues of the mouth.
The Step-by-Step Chewing Technique
Chewing cloves should be a slow and controlled process to manage the intense release of active compounds. Begin with a single whole clove and place it between your cheek and gum, allowing the warmth and moisture of your mouth to soften the bud. This placement keeps the initial, highly concentrated oils away from the most sensitive areas of the tongue and inner cheek.
After about a minute, gently press or lightly grind the clove using a back molar, avoiding aggressive crushing that can cause a burning sensation. The goal is to slowly fracture the bud’s structure, causing the eugenol to seep out and mix with saliva. Alternate between gentle chewing and holding the clove against the cheek to control the intensity of the flavor and numbing effect.
Continue this process for five to ten minutes until the flavor noticeably fades and the clove becomes a softened, fibrous mass. Once the potency is gone, the clove material should be safely disposed of, as swallowing the dense, woody fiber is not recommended. Rinsing the mouth with water afterward can help clear any remaining residue and alleviate lingering heat or numbness.
Why People Chew Cloves
The primary motivation for chewing cloves is the immediate effect they have on breath freshness. The compound eugenol acts as a natural antiseptic with strong antibacterial properties that eliminate odor-causing bacteria in the mouth. This provides a rapid and noticeable improvement in oral odor compared to using conventional breath mints.
Chewing cloves is also a traditional method for finding temporary relief from minor oral discomfort. Eugenol possesses analgesic and anesthetic qualities, which can mildly numb irritated nerves in the gums or teeth. When slowly released through chewing, the compound contacts the affected area, providing a localized, short-term soothing effect. The chewing action also stimulates saliva production, which helps cleanse the oral cavity and promotes better oral hygiene.
Safety Considerations and Side Effects
While chewing cloves is effective, moderation is important due to the high concentration of eugenol. Limit consumption to just one or two whole cloves per session to prevent adverse reactions. Excessive or aggressive chewing can irritate the sensitive mucous membranes of the mouth, potentially causing a temporary burning or painful sensation.
Consuming too many whole cloves can also lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea or stomach upset. People taking blood-thinning medications, such as anticoagulants, should exercise caution, as eugenol may slow blood clotting. It is advisable to discontinue clove consumption approximately two weeks before any scheduled surgery to minimize the risk of excessive bleeding.