Cloves for Toothache Relief: Natural Remedy, How It Works, and Safe Use

Spice-based treatments offer gentle numbing and antimicrobial support for aching teeth.

By Sneha Tete, Integrated MA, Certified Relationship Coach

Created on Sep 18, 2025

Spice-based treatments offer gentle numbing and antimicrobial support for aching teeth.

Cloves for Toothache Relief: A Comprehensive Guide

Cloves have been revered for generations as a natural solution for tooth pain. The aromatic spice not only infuses warmth into holiday recipes, but also harbors powerful medicinal properties. In this in-depth guide, discover how cloves can relieve toothache, understand their science, learn practical application methods, and clarify important safety information for oral use.

What Are Cloves?

Cloves are dried flower buds from the Syzygium aromaticum tree, a species native to Indonesia. With a strong, pungent flavor and aroma, whole or ground cloves are common in global cuisines. Yet beyond the kitchen, their health benefits—especially for oral pain relief—are well documented.

Botanical name: Syzygium aromaticum
Main active compound: Eugenol (responsible for both the aroma and most medicinal effects)
Traditional uses: Toothache, mouth infections, indigestion, respiratory complaints, and more

Why Are Cloves Used to Treat Toothache?

Cloves have been used for centuries across cultures in oral health care. Their efficacy comes from the presence of eugenol, a natural compound responsible for their pain-relieving and antimicrobial properties.

How Cloves Work for Tooth Pain

Natural anesthetic: Eugenol acts as a numbing agent, temporarily blocking the transmission of pain signals from nerves in the tooth and gums.
Anti-inflammatory: Reduces swelling and irritation in the affected area.
Antibacterial: Fights infection-causing bacteria, helping to reduce oral pathogens and prevent worsening of dental issues.

Modern research has shown the analgesic effects of both clove extracts and clove oil, with some studies indicating that eugenol’s pain-relieving abilities are comparable to over-the-counter gels used for toothache.

Scientific Evidence: Do Cloves Really Relieve Toothache?

Several studies validate the use of cloves for pain reduction in dental problems. The pain-relieving effects are primarily attributed to eugenol, which blocks nerve signals and numbs the affected area. Cloves also possess marked antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, helping with oral infections and gum sensitivity.

Active Compound	Effect
Eugenol	Numbing (analgesic), antibacterial, anti-inflammatory
Other Volatiles	Support antimicrobial action and aroma

Clinical studies show both aqueous and ethanolic extracts of clove provide significant pain relief in animal models, and topical use of eugenol is widely accepted in dentistry. However, cloves offer only temporary relief; they do not address underlying dental issues such as infection, cracks, or cavities.

How to Use Cloves for Toothache: Methods and Step-by-Step Guides

Multiple forms of cloves can be used at home to temporarily reduce tooth pain. Below are the most effective methods, their benefits, and instructions for safe use.

1. Whole Cloves

Place 2-3 whole cloves directly near the aching tooth.
Let them soften in your saliva for a few minutes.
Gently crush them between molars (if possible) to release the oils.
Position the crushed cloves against the sore area and hold for 20-30 minutes.
Spit out after use, then rinse your mouth with warm, salty water.

This method releases oils slowly for localized, sustained numbing.
Tip: Do not swallow the cloves. Repeat as needed, but avoid overuse.

2. Ground Cloves

Grind whole cloves into a fine powder using a grinder or mortar and pestle.
Mix with a few drops of olive oil to form a paste.
Dip a cotton swab or clean gauze into the mixture.
Gently apply to the painful tooth and surrounding gum area.
Leave in place for 15–30 minutes and rinse.

This method provides a convenient application and spreads the analgesic compound efficiently, especially for hard-to-reach areas.

3. Clove Oil

Soak a small ball of cotton or a swab in a few drops of clove oil.
Place the swab directly on the affected tooth or gum.
Hold for 10–15 minutes; do not swallow the oil.
Remove and rinse your mouth thoroughly after use.

Pure clove oil is highly concentrated and should always be diluted in a carrier oil (such as olive or coconut oil) before use to prevent burns and irritation.

4. Clove Tea

Boil 500 ml of water and add 1 teaspoon of whole or ground cloves.
Steep for 10-15 minutes.
Strain and allow to cool to a warm temperature suitable for rinsing.
Use as a mouth rinse, swishing the tea in your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting out.

Clove tea can be sipped in moderation for soothing oral pain and inflammation. Be mindful of possible anticoagulant effects if consumed in large amounts.

5. Cloves Mixed with Cayenne Pepper

Combine crushed cloves and equal parts cayenne pepper powder in a small bowl.
Add a few drops of water to form a thick paste.
Roll a cotton swab in the paste and apply carefully to the sore tooth.
Hold for several minutes, avoiding the gums as cayenne may cause irritation.

This preparation enhances the numbing effect but may create a temporary burning sensation. Always test a tiny amount first.

Safety, Precautions, and When to Visit a Dentist

While cloves and clove oil can provide short-term pain relief, they are not a substitute for professional dental care. Tooth pain is often a warning sign of underlying conditions such as cavities, decay, gum disease, infection, or tooth fracture. Relying solely on home remedies without understanding the cause can delay proper treatment and increase the risk of complications.

Important Safety Guidelines

Do not use large quantities of clove oil or swallow it directly—pure clove oil is potent and may irritate or damage oral tissues if used undiluted.
Children, pregnant women, and those with blood disorders should consult a healthcare professional before using clove preparations.
Prolonged or excessive use of eugenol (present in cloves and clove oil) has been associated with liver toxicity if ingested in large amounts; always use sparingly.
If you notice increased pain, swelling, or signs of infection (such as fever, pus, or difficulty swallowing), seek prompt dental evaluation.

Benefits of Using Cloves for Oral Care

Natural, accessible remedy: Easily available in most kitchens and grocery stores.
Multipurpose action: Combines pain relief, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects.
Addition to oral hygiene: Used in many commercial oral care products, including toothpaste, mouthwashes, and temporary dental compounds mixed with zinc oxide.
Historical significance: Modern dentistry still values eugenol, using it in temporary fillings and dental cements.

Potential Side Effects of Clove and Clove Oil

Mouth/throat irritation if used undiluted, especially for those with sensitive gums.
Allergic reactions: Itching, swelling, or rash are rare but possible. Discontinue use immediately if these occur.
Liver and blood problems: Very large doses may affect liver function and blood clotting due to eugenol’s anticoagulant properties.
Numbness or burning: Excessive use may over-numb mouth tissues; always follow guidelines for quantity and dilution.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How quickly do cloves work for toothache relief?

Clove oil or whole cloves can start to relieve pain within a few minutes of application, with peak relief often achieved after 10-15 minutes. The numbing effect can last 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the method used.

Is it safe to use clove oil directly on my tooth?

No. Pure clove oil should always be diluted with a carrier oil before direct application. Using it undiluted may burn oral tissues and increase the risk of toxicity.

Can children use clove-based remedies for tooth pain?

Clove oil and clove products should be used with caution in children. Always consult a pediatric dentist or healthcare provider first. Overuse can be hazardous due to sensitive oral tissues and higher risk of accidental swallowing.

Will using cloves cure my toothache permanently?

No. Cloves can temporarily relieve pain and reduce bacterial growth, but they do not fix dental decay, infections, or structural problems. Always consult your dentist to address the underlying cause of tooth pain.

Are there interactions between clove oil and medications?

Eugenol (in cloves) has mild blood-thinning effects, which may enhance the action of anticoagulant drugs. Consult your doctor if you are on blood thinners, have bleeding disorders, or are taking other regular medications.

How often can I use clove remedies for tooth pain?

For short-term relief, 2-3 times a day is generally safe for adults. Prolonged or frequent application should be supervised by a healthcare professional.

Conclusion: The Role of Cloves in Modern Oral Care

Cloves are more than a kitchen spice—they are a time-tested, natural way to help manage dental discomfort. Their age-old reputation is supported by modern science, especially thanks to the effectiveness of eugenol as a pain reliever and antimicrobial agent. However, remember that cloves are not a cure; professional dental care is essential for all persistent or severe toothaches. Use cloves wisely as a temporary measure and always consult your dentist for accurate diagnosis and comprehensive treatment.

References

Author

Sneha TeteBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

Sneha is a relationships and lifestyle writer with a strong foundation in applied linguistics and certified training in relationship coaching. She brings over five years of writing experience to thebridalbox, crafting thoughtful, research-driven content that empowers readers to build healthier relationships, boost emotional well-being, and embrace holistic living.

Read full bio of Sneha Tete