Did You Know These 3 Simple Ways to Enjoy Cloves Daily May Support Healthier Aging After 50?

Why Cloves Are Getting a Second Look from People Over 50

Cloves have been used in traditional cooking and home remedies for centuries, yet modern research is now catching up to what many cultures already knew. They contain a powerful compound called eugenol along with dozens of other plant nutrients that show promising effects in lab and human studies — especially for inflammation, blood sugar balance, and antioxidant protection.

The best part? You don’t need expensive extracts or fancy capsules. Two whole cloves a day (about the size of your thumbnail) deliver meaningful amounts of these compounds at almost no cost and with virtually no risk when used as food.

3 Easy and Pleasant Ways to Add 2 Cloves a Day

Method 1: Morning Chew-and-Swallow Ritual

Pop 2 fresh whole cloves in your mouth first thing in the morning.

Gently crush them with your teeth, let the warm, spicy flavor spread for 30–60 seconds (it wakes you up better than coffee for some people).

Swallow with a glass of warm water.

Many report this simple habit helps freshen breath all day and gives a subtle sense of warmth and energy.

Method 2: Soothing Evening Clove Tea

Drop 2 lightly crushed cloves into a cup of hot water.

Let steep 5–10 minutes (add a slice of lemon or a teaspoon of honey if you like).

Sip slowly before bed — the gentle aroma is naturally relaxing.

Method 3: Overnight Clove Water (The “Set It and Forget It” Version)

Place 2 whole cloves in a glass of water before bed.

Drink the lightly infused water first thing in the morning (cloves can be reused 2–3 times).

This is the mildest-tasting option and perfect for anyone sensitive to strong flavors.

What Early Research and Real-World Experience Are Saying

While cloves are not medicine and won’t replace any prescribed treatment, studies on their key compounds have noted several interesting effects:

May support healthier fasting glucose and insulin response (especially when part of a balanced diet)

Provide strong antioxidant activity that helps combat daily oxidative stress

Show natural anti-inflammatory properties in lab and small human trials

Offer gentle antimicrobial benefits traditionally used for oral health and minor digestive comfort

People who have made 2 cloves part of their daily routine often share that they simply “feel a little better” — steadier energy, less afternoon slump, and fewer aches on waking.

Simple Comparison: Cloves vs Common Alternatives

Option Monthly Cost Taste/Convenience Strength of Research So Far

Daily prescription meds $50–$600+ Easy but side effects possible Very strong (for specific conditions)

Popular supplements $20–$80 Varies Mixed

2 whole cloves/day <$3 Spicy & warming Growing & promising

Gentle Tips to Get Started Safely

Start with just 1–2 whole cloves daily — that’s plenty for most people.

Choose fresh, aromatic cloves (give them a sniff — strong, rich scent = good potency).

If you take blood-thinning medication or have upcoming surgery, check with your doctor first (cloves contain natural coumarins in small amounts).

Enjoy them as part of meals and healthy habits, not instead of medical care.

A Few Questions Readers Often Ask

1. Can cloves actually lower blood sugar or cholesterol on their own?

No single food or spice can do that reliably by itself. However, adding antioxidant-rich cloves to an already healthy lifestyle may offer supportive benefits according to early studies.

2. Will I taste garlic or spice all day?

Most people find the flavor fades within minutes, leaving only fresh breath. The overnight water method has almost no taste.

3. Are there any side effects?

When used in culinary amounts (2–4 cloves daily), side effects are rare. Very high doses (teaspoons of ground cloves) can irritate the stomach or interact with certain medications.

This article is for informational and educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Cloves are a spice, not a treatment or cure for any condition. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your diet or supplement routine, especially if you take medications or have health concerns.