Sometimes we spot it when opening a kitchen drawer, tucked between the cinnamon sticks and grated nutmeg—a tiny, almost forgotten dark brown bud. The clove.

And yet, behind its unassuming look hides a surprisingly powerful ally! A natural pain reliever, wellness booster, immune support… But be careful: using it the wrong way can reduce its benefits. Do you really know how to use it correctly?

Why chewing a clove might surprise you (but that’s a good thing!)

Many try it to soothe a toothache, and then—surprise. A numbing sensation spreads across the tongue. An allergic reaction? Not at all. That’s eugenol at work—the main active compound in cloves. It’s the same substance dentists use for its calming effects.

So, no worries—it’s completely normal, and actually a good sign. Too bad many people stop there and miss out on its real long-term benefits…

Where to store your cloves to keep their properties intact

A common mistake: leaving the jar open in the light, next to the stovetop. The result? The cloves lose their strength. Their aroma fades, and their benefits weaken.

Pro tip: Store them in a tinted glass jar or opaque airtight container, away from heat and humidity. A quick test for freshness? The scent should be strong and slightly pungent. If not, time to get a new batch!

The trap of “more is better”

We often think that a very strong infusion or chewing multiple cloves will be more effective. Bad idea! Too much can irritate the stomach or put unnecessary strain on the liver.

The ideal amount? One to two whole cloves per day, maximum. In a tea, in food, or chewed—whatever you prefer. Consistency and moderation are far better than overdoing it.