Step 1
Pour the water into a small saucepan and bring it to a gentle boil.
Step 2
Add the whole cloves. If desired, add the cinnamon stick and fresh ginger.
Step 3
Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for 8–10 minutes.
Step 4
Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the tea to steep for another 5 minutes.
Step 5
Strain the tea into your favorite mug.
Step 6
Add honey and lemon juice if desired, then stir well.
Step 7
Serve warm and enjoy.
Potential Benefits
Cloves naturally contain eugenol, a plant compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Drinking clove tea may:
- Provide antioxidants that help protect cells from oxidative stress.
- Offer a warming, comforting beverage during cold weather.
- Support digestion for some people after meals.
- Freshen breath due to its aromatic oils.
However, drinking clove tea has not been proven to:
- Eliminate headaches.
- Cleanse or “detox” the lungs.
- Unclog arteries.
- Melt body fat.
- Cure chronic inflammation.
Maintaining heart health and reducing inflammation involve overall lifestyle habits, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and managing medical conditions.
Tips
- Start with one cup to see how you tolerate the flavor.
- Whole cloves produce a smoother taste than ground cloves.
- Add a slice of orange or a cinnamon stick for extra aroma.
Precautions
- Avoid drinking excessive amounts of clove tea, as large quantities of clove or clove oil may cause side effects.
- Cloves may increase the risk of bleeding in people taking blood-thinning medications such as warfarin. Consult your healthcare provider if you take these medicines.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women and people with certain medical conditions should speak with a healthcare professional before regularly consuming concentrated herbal preparations.
The Bottom Line
Clove tea is a flavorful herbal drink that contains antioxidants and has a long history of traditional use. While it can be a pleasant addition to a healthy lifestyle, it is not a proven treatment for headaches, lung cleansing, artery blockage, weight loss, or chronic inflammation. Enjoy it for its taste and as part of an overall balanced diet rather than expecting dramatic health transformations.
See more on the next page