Clove may not be the first ingredient that comes to mind when you think of tea, but don’t underestimate it—it packs a punch!
If this is your first time hearing about clove tea, or if you already have but want to know more, then you’re on the right page! This refreshing beverage is known to have many health benefits and is surprisingly very easy to make! Originating from aromatic cloves, it has a great taste and health benefits.
Clove tea offers a unique experience that will blow your senses away and nurture your body, too. Keep reading to learn more about this special spicy drink and how you can easily brew your own batch of clove tea right at home!
What is Clove Tea?
Clove tea, as the name suggests, is a beverage made by infusing dried cloves in hot water. Clove is considered a “super spice” because of its powerful medicinal properties. Naturally, adding them to tea is a great way to reap its benefits while quenching your thirst.
They’re derived from the aromatic flower buds of the clove tree, are renowned for their intense flavor and numerous health benefits. Clove tea has a rich history dating back centuries and has been praised for its medicinal properties in different cultures from different parts of the globe.
Where Did Clove Tea Originate From?
Clove tea has been around for thousands of years, and it can be dated back to the islands of Indonesia, where clove trees flourish due to the tropical climate.
From there, the popularity of clove tea spread across Asia, Africa, and beyond, catching the eyes (and tastebuds) of tea enthusiasts with its distinctive taste and therapeutic effects.
Clove tea is available and enjoyed worldwide today–well-loved because of its potent blend of spice and wellness.
What Does it Taste Like?
Haven’t gotten the chance to sip some clove tea yet? You might be wondering how it tastes like.
Clove tea has a complex flavor profile characterized by its warm, spicy notes and subtle sweetness. The cloves naturally come with an aromatic essence that’s infused with the brew, giving it that distinctive and energizing taste. Combine that with water and you have a comforting and soothing beverage that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.
What are the Benefits of Drinking Clove Tea?
You already know by now that clove is a super spice and drinking it in tea form is going to give you tons of benefits–but what exactly are these benefits? Here are the most commonly known benefits associated with clove tea!
Helps with Digestion
If you have digestive issues, drinking clove tea is one way to alleviate it! When you drink clove tea, its medicinal properties stimulates the production of digestive enzymes, promoting smoother digestion, and relieving discomfort after meals.
Contains Anti-Inflammatory Properties
The eugenol compound found in cloves exhibits potent anti-inflammatory properties, making clove tea a soothing remedy for inflammatory conditions such as arthritis.
Improves Insulin Management
Clove tea is said to help improve insulin sensitivity, so if you have diabetes, drinking clove tea is especially good for you! This is because cloves contain eugenol, which helps lower blood sugar levels.
Promotes Oral Health
Clove tea's antimicrobial properties help combat oral bacteria, reducing the risk of cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.
Kills Bacteria
Clove tea's antimicrobial properties extend beyond oral health! They also protect you against bacterial infections throughout your body.
Provides a Boost of Antioxidants
Clove tea is loaded with antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals in the body, protect cells from oxidative damage, and promote overall health.
May Improve Liver Health
Studies indicate that drinking clove tea may support liver function and detoxification, aiding in the maintenance of a healthy liver.
May Improve Bone Health
Clove tea contains minerals such as manganese, which plays a role in bone health, contributing to the maintenance of strong and healthy bones.
Aids Respiratory Health
The warm and soothing properties of clove tea can relieve respiratory ailments such as coughs, colds, and congestion. It's the perfect tea to drink when you’re feeling under the weather!
Improves Blood Circulation
Drinking clove tea can improve your blood circulation. The drink has the ability to improve blood flow and your cardiovascular health, reducing your risk of heart disease.
Helps Alleviate Stomach Ulcers
The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of clove tea may help soothe any stomach ulcers you have and promote healing.
Also Helps Alleviate Toothaches
Did you know that clove is a natural remedy for toothaches? Clove tea's numbing effect can provide temporary relief from toothaches and oral pain, making it a natural remedy for dental discomfort.
May Aid in Weight Loss
While it’s not a direct weight loss solution, clove tea contains metabolism-boosting properties, coupled with its ability to aid digestion, which may complement a healthy weight loss regimen. It’s important to pair it with a healthy diet and a consistent workout regime to see optimal results!
What are the Possible Side Effects of Drinking Clove Tea?
Now that we discussed the many health benefits of this spicy drink, it’s also important to be mindful of the possible side effects it may bring. This doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll experience these, but as long as you drink it in moderation, you’ll be removing yourself from the risk of side effects while still reaping its benefits.
Upset stomach
Drinking too much clove tea can sometimes cause gastrointestinal discomfort, leading to symptoms like nausea, bloating, or abdominal pain. If you have a sensitive stomach, it may be worthwhile to think twice before drinking too much.
Skin irritation
Direct contact with clove oil or excessive consumption of clove tea may cause skin irritation, especially in individuals with sensitive skin. Symptoms may include redness, itching, or a burning sensation. It's essential to dilute clove oil properly and monitor for any adverse reactions when using it topically.
Allergic reactions
If you’re allergic to cloves, then you know you shouldn’t be drinking this! However, if you’re unsure, allergic reactions can vary in severity, but symptoms are usually itching, hives, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, or anaphylaxis. Accidentally ingesting cloves when you’re allergic signals an immediate visit to the doctor before any severe reactions come up.
Liver toxicity
Clove contains compounds like eugenol, which in high doses, may exert toxic effects on the liver. Prolonged or excessive consumption of clove tea can potentially lead to liver damage or other hepatic issues. Individuals with pre-existing liver conditions or those taking medications metabolized by the liver should consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating clove tea into their diet. Regular monitoring of liver function may be necessary in such cases.
How Often Can You Drink Clove Tea?
Clove tea is safe to drink daily, but moderation is always key! While enjoying a cup of clove tea can provide health benefits, drinking it excessively may lead to adverse effects. The recommended amount of cups per day is one to two, so you can maximize the benefits without overloading yourself with clove's potent compounds.
How to Make Clove Tea Easily at Home
Think that making clove tea at home hard? Think again! Here's a quick fool-proof recipe on how to make clove tea:
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon of whole cloves
- 1 cup of water
- Optional: honey or lemon for added flavor!
Recipe:
- Bring water to a boil in a small saucepan.
- Add the cloves to the boiling water and reduce heat to low.
- Simmer the cloves for 10-15 minutes to allow their flavor to infuse into the water.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the tea steep for an additional 5 minutes.
- Strain the tea to remove the cloves.
- Add honey or lemon to taste, if desired.
- Pour the clove tea into a cup and enjoy!
The best thing about this simple recipe is that you can customize it to your liking. You can experiment and combine it with different flavors, perfecting your own version of clove tea goodness.
The Final Sip
Cloves are very rich in antioxidants, and it’s no wonder that combining them with hot water makes a delicious and hearty batch of “super” tea!
From its ancient origins to its modern-day resurgence, this aromatic brew continues to captivate the hearts of many with its rich taste and health benefits.
Ready to expand your taste buds in the world of tea? Choose only the most delicious, refreshing organic tea blends right here at Seven Teas!
From classic clove to tantalizing fruit infusions, our teas promise a symphony of flavors that delight the senses and nurture the body. Explore our collection today and discover what amazing tea should taste like! Shop all our offerings here!
