Is It Safe To Use Clove During Pregnancy?

Image: Shutterstock

Clove is a versatile spice used to flavor food and beverages. It is rich in vitamins and minerals and has many medicinal properties. But is it safe to consume cloves during pregnancy? Pregnant women are cautious about each and everything they put in their mouths. However, due to much misinformation floating around, it may not be clear if the ingredient on the table is safe for you or not. To get accurate information and facts, read this post as we tell you about the nutrition, safety, and health benefits of consuming cloves during pregnancy.

In This Article

What Is Clove?

Clove is a herb that is used in various forms for eating and medicinal purposes. Clove is mainly used for its oil, leaves, dried flower buds, and stems.

Are Cloves Safe During Pregnancy?

Consult your doctor before having clove during pregnancy

Image: Shutterstock

Many cultures use clove as a spice for food. Clove boasts many benefits. Consult your doctor before you decide to consume cloves during pregnancy. While clove may not be harmful, your doctor will assess your health and let you know if you can safely continue using it.

Using clove is safe when you are pregnant, but only as a part of your food. There is not enough research on whether or not it is also safe for use as a medicinal supplement. The best thing to do is include small amounts of clove in your food and stay away from using it in the form of medication.

Point to consider

Do not take clove oil without doctors’ approval, as it can interact with medications and alter their effects (3).

Health Benefits Of Clove While You Are Pregnant

Remember that it is only safe to use clove as a food ingredient while you are pregnant. Use it in its spice form and stay away from using clove as clove oil or any other medicinal supplement. Here are some health benefits of eating cloves during pregnancy:

Cloves are a rich source of antioxidants. Scientists examined the antioxidant effects of clove and found that clove bud oil extract, when used at a concentration of 45 μg/mL, displayed high antioxidant activity, inhibiting free radicals by 64.29%. Certain antioxidants in cloves help activate your body’s antioxidants. As a result, your body fights off any oxidative cell damage and the antioxidants and anti-fungal properties aid in infection prevention.

The rich amount of antioxidants is a great way to increase your immunity and is especially useful while you are pregnant.

Quick fact

According to the USDA, clove is classified among the 100 richest sources of polyphenols (compounds that act as antioxidants) (4).

The antioxidants in clove help boost immunity

Image: Shutterstock

Cloves contain a high amount of minerals such as manganese, sodium and phosphorus. All these minerals will help promote your unborn baby’s development.

The dietary fiber in cloves will also help keep your digestion smooth and regulates your bowel movements. When you are pregnant, constipation is a common problem. Including clove in your main dishes will help alleviate any constipation or digestive problems.

The vitamin C and K in cloves will add to your overall respiratory health and also prevent you from contracting cold and flu, another health condition that is common when you are pregnant.

Cloves contain a high amount of omega-3 fatty acids. The fatty acids help promote your unborn baby’s brain development. It keeps your baby’s nervous system healthy and lets it develop normally.

The protein and carbohydrate found in cloves will provide you with a dash of energy while you are pregnant.

The calcium and phosphorus content in clove promotes your unborn baby’s bone formation.

Cloves are also a good source of flavonoids that act as anti-inflammatory agents. Eating clove during pregnancy will prevent joint ache or swelling.

Did you know?

Cloves are often used to relieve toothache, treat mouth ulcers or inflammation, and treat skin issues such as athlete’s foot (5).

Eating clove during pregnancy will prevent joint aches

Image: Shutterstock

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use cloves for toothache during pregnancy?

Cloves have natural pain relief and antibacterial properties, so you may use them to relieve toothache and for oral health support during pregnancy.

2. Is clove tea safe during pregnancy?

Yes. You may drink clove tea during pregnancy. However, it is important to consult a doctor before making a decision. Also, drink the tea in moderation to avoid any adverse effects.

3. Can I drink clove water during pregnancy?

Yes. You may drink clove water in moderate amounts to boost gastrointestinal health and help with digestive issues and other ailments.

You may use cloves during pregnancy in moderation to spice the food items. However, you must avoid excessive use and seek expert advice while using cloves for natural remedies in pregnancy. Cloves are rich sources of antioxidants and minerals such as manganese. It is also a good source of dietary fibers, vitamins, and flavonoids with anti-inflammatory properties. You may chew cloves for toothache in pregnancy. It is recommended to avoid clove as an essential oil and other clove-derived medications in pregnancy due to higher concentrations and possible adverse effects.

Infographic: Health Benefits Of Clove During Pregnancy

Cloves are a popular spice used for cooking Indian dishes and as an ingredient in traditional medicine. The infographic below explains how it might benefit a pregnant woman’s health. However, it is better to stick to moderate consumption of this spice while pregnant to reap its benefits while preventing any side effects.

possible health advantages of cloves during pregnancy (infographic)

Get high-quality PDF version by clicking below.

Download Infographic

Key Pointers

Commonly used in cooking and as medicine, cloves have many benefits but must be taken in moderation during pregnancy.
Cloves are consumed in various forms such as oil, in teas, or powder and are known to be rich in antioxidants and dietary fiber.
They also help boost the immune system and aid in fetal development due to being rich in carbohydrates, proteins, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins C and K.
However, overconsumption of clove may lead to adverse health effects in pregnant women.
Therefore, expectant mothers should consult their doctor before consuming clove in any form during pregnancy.

References:

MomJunction's articles are written after analyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in our editorial policy.