What happens when you chew just two cloves every morning: A small daily habit with big health benefits

Sometimes the simplest daily habits bring the biggest changes, and chewing just two cloves each morning is one of those surprisingly powerful practices. Cloves are a familiar spice found in almost every kitchen cabinet, but most people don’t realize they also carry impressive healing properties. Packed with antioxidants, essential oils, vitamins, and minerals, cloves have been used for centuries in traditional medicine – and modern research is beginning to support what ancient cultures already knew.

What makes this habit remarkable is how small it is. Just two cloves. A few seconds of chewing. Yet over time, people often report noticeable improvements in digestion, immunity, oral health, and even energy levels. Here’s a deep look at why this tiny morning ritual can produce significant benefits.

1. Strengthens the Immune System

Cloves are one of the richest natural sources of antioxidants, especially eugenol. This compound helps fight oxidative stress, reduce inflammation, and support the immune system’s natural defense mechanisms.

Why it matters:

• Helps the body fight off colds and seasonal infections

• Reduces free-radical damage

• Supports long-term cellular health

Starting the morning with two cloves gives your immune system a boost before your day even begins.

2. Improves Digestion and Reduces Bloating

Chewing cloves activates digestive enzymes and stimulates saliva production, which enhances the entire digestive process. The natural oils in cloves help reduce gas, bloating, and indigestion.

Benefits include:

• Better breakdown of food

• Reduced stomach discomfort

• Improved nutrient absorption

• Relief from morning nausea

Many people say their digestion feels lighter and more efficient within just a few days of starting this habit.

3. Natural Remedy for Bad Breath

Cloves have strong antibacterial properties, making them one of the most effective natural remedies for bad breath. Chewing them kills odor-causing bacteria in the mouth and leaves a fresh, aromatic flavor behind.

Additional oral health benefits:

• Strengthens gums

• Reduces oral bacteria

• Freshens breath naturally

• Helps prevent plaque buildup

This makes cloves a perfect alternative to harsh chemical mouthwashes.

4. Supports Liver Detoxification

Eugenol in cloves has been shown to protect the liver from inflammation and oxidative stress. Chewing cloves regularly supports the liver’s natural detox processes, helping the body filter toxins more efficiently.

This can improve:

• Energy levels

• Skin clarity

• Metabolic function

• Overall vitality

Your liver works all night – cloves can help it reset in the morning.

5. Helps Regulate Blood Sugar

Studies indicate that cloves may help regulate glucose levels by improving insulin sensitivity. This makes them particularly beneficial for individuals at risk of diabetes or those trying to maintain stable energy levels throughout the day.

What chewing cloves may do:

• Prevent sudden blood sugar spikes

• Support metabolic balance

• Reduce sugar cravings

It’s a natural, gentle way to support healthier eating habits.

6. Natural Anti-Inflammatory and Pain Relief

Cloves have been used for centuries as a pain reliever, especially for toothaches. Their anti-inflammatory properties help soothe discomfort not only in the mouth but throughout the body.

May reduce symptoms of:

• Headaches

• Muscle pain

• Joint inflammation

• Menstrual cramps

Chewing cloves releases eugenol directly into the bloodstream, offering mild but noticeable relief.

7. Supports Respiratory Health

Cloves can help clear the respiratory passages and reduce inflammation in the throat and lungs.

This makes them useful for:

• Seasonal allergies

• Coughs

• Congestion

• Asthma-related irritation

Many people find that chewing cloves in the morning helps them breathe more freely throughout the day.

8. Improves Mental Clarity and Focus

The essential oils in cloves have a stimulating effect on the mind. They help increase circulation, which can improve alertness and concentration.

People often report:

• More mental clarity

• Better focus at work

• Reduced brain fog

• A calmer, balanced mood

This makes cloves a helpful addition to any morning wellness routine.

How to Chew Cloves Properly Each Morning

To get the most benefits:

1. Take two whole cloves.

2. Place them in your mouth and chew slowly for 1–2 minutes.

3. You may swallow them afterward or simply enjoy the oils and discard the husks.

4. Drink a glass of warm water to enhance digestion and absorption.

Doing this consistently is key to seeing long-term results.

Who Should Avoid Chewing Cloves?

While safe for most people, cloves may not be suitable for:

• Those with stomach ulcers

• Individuals with bleeding disorders

• People on blood-thinning medication

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women (only use with guidance)

If unsure, consult a healthcare professional before starting daily use.

Final Thoughts: A Tiny Habit With Big Potential

Chewing two cloves each morning may be one of the simplest wellness habits you can adopt – yet the benefits can be surprisingly powerful. From improved digestion and stronger immunity to fresher breath and clearer thinking, cloves offer a natural way to support long-term health.

This small spice has been hiding in your kitchen cabinet all along, carrying life-enhancing properties that people have relied on for generations. Sometimes, it’s the smallest daily rituals that create the biggest impact.

Who Should Avoid Using Cloves? (Important Safety Notes)

Although cloves offer impressive health benefits, they are not suitable for everyone. Because they contain potent essential oils – especially eugenol – cloves can interact with certain medical conditions and medications. Understanding these precautions is important to avoid unwanted side effects.

Below are the groups of people who should be cautious or avoid chewing cloves entirely:

1. People With Stomach Ulcers or Severe Gastritis

Cloves stimulate digestive enzymes and increase stomach acid production.
While this benefits digestion for most people, it may worsen symptoms in those with pre-existing stomach issues.

Why to avoid cloves:

They can irritate the stomach lining
They may increase burning sensations or abdominal pain
They can slow ulcer healing

If you have ulcers, gastritis, or acid reflux, avoid chewing cloves unless approved by a doctor.

2. Individuals With Bleeding Disorders

Cloves naturally thin the blood due to the high concentration of eugenol. For people who have difficulty forming blood clots, this can be dangerous.

Potential risks include:

Excessive bleeding from minor cuts
Easy bruising
Prolonged bleeding times

Anyone with hemophilia, thrombocytopenia, or low platelet count should avoid cloves.

3. People Taking Blood-Thinning Medication

Cloves can interact with medications such as:

Warfarin
Aspirin
Heparin
Clopidogrel
Any anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs

Why this is dangerous:
Combining cloves with blood thinners increases the risk of internal bleeding, nosebleeds, bruising, and slowed clotting.

If you are on these medications, consult your physician before consuming cloves regularly.

4. Pregnant Women

Cloves are commonly used in cooking, but consuming them in concentrated forms – like chewing raw cloves – may not be safe during pregnancy.

Possible concerns:

May overstimulate digestion and cause discomfort
High eugenol levels may influence fetal development
In rare cases, excessive use may trigger uterine contractions

Pregnant women should stick to culinary amounts only and avoid medicinal use.

5. Breastfeeding Women

Eugenol can pass into breast milk and may cause stomach irritation or allergic reactions in infants.
While occasional dietary use is fine, chewing cloves daily is not recommended for breastfeeding mothers.

6. Individuals With Liver Conditions

Although cloves can support a healthy liver in small amounts, high or concentrated intake may strain a damaged liver.

Why?
Eugenol, when consumed excessively, requires liver metabolism and can worsen existing conditions.

People with:

Hepatitis
Fatty liver
Cirrhosis
Elevated liver enzymes

should avoid using cloves medicinally.

7. Children Under the Age of 12

Chewing whole cloves may pose:

A choking hazard
Digestive discomfort
Allergic reactions

In young children, even small amounts can irritate the gums, cause burning sensations, or upset their stomach. Cloves should only be used for children in safe, diluted forms and under adult supervision.

8. People With Clove Allergies

Though relatively rare, some individuals experience allergic reactions such as:

Skin rashes
Swelling of the lips or tongue
Breathing difficulties
Itching in the mouth

Any sign of an allergic reaction means cloves should be avoided immediately.

Final Note: Use Cloves Wisely

Cloves are powerful, healing, and deeply beneficial – but like all potent natural remedies, they must be used with awareness. If you belong to any of the groups above, or if you experience discomfort after chewing cloves, consult a healthcare professional before continuing.

When used correctly, cloves can be a simple and safe daily habit that supports long-term well-being. But safety always comes first.