Food Cures: Cloves

Cloves are not just a popular spice used in cooking, often seen adorning a Holiday Ham. They are also natural toothache medicine and oral health healing giants. These small, dried flower buds from the clove tree have been used for centuries in traditional medicine for their powerful medicinal properties and taste great in soups, sauces and stocks.

What makes cloves effective for toothaches?

Cloves contain a compound called eugenol, which is known for its analgesic, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. When applied to a toothache, eugenol can help numb the pain and reduce inflammation, providing temporary relief until a visit to the dentist is possible.

How to use cloves for toothache relief

One common way to use cloves for toothache relief is to apply clove oil directly to the affected tooth or gums. Simply soak a cotton ball in clove oil and place it on the painful area for a few minutes. The eugenol in the clove oil will help alleviate the pain.

Other oral health benefits of cloves

In addition to their pain-relieving properties, cloves also offer other oral health benefits. Cloves have antimicrobial properties that can help fight bacteria in the mouth, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Chewing on a clove or using clove oil as a mouthwash can help freshen breath and promote overall oral health.

Precautions when using cloves

While cloves can be a safe and effective natural remedy for toothaches, it is important to use them with caution. Clove oil is potent and should be diluted before applying it to the skin or gums to avoid irritation. It is also essential to consult with a dentist if you are experiencing severe or persistent tooth pain.

Overall, cloves are a natural toothache medicine that can provide temporary relief from dental pain and offer additional oral health benefits. Incorporating cloves into your oral care routine can be a simple and effective way to promote a healthy smile. Growing up I had an abscess and getting to the dentist was not an option, pain killers had no effect on it and cloves saved the day for me.