Grind 1–2 cloves into powder
Mix with 1 teaspoon of raw honey
Take once or twice daily
Benefits: Honey coats the throat while cloves fight inflammation and infection, making this combination especially soothing for dry or scratchy throats.
4. Clove Gargle
How to prepare:
Boil a cup of water with 3–4 cloves
Let cool to warm
Gargle for 20–30 seconds
Benefits: This method helps cleanse the throat, reduce bacteria, and relieve inflammation, especially useful for throat infections.
For illustrative purposes only
When Cloves Are Most Effective
Cloves are particularly helpful when a sore throat is caused by:
Mild infections
Seasonal colds or flu
Dry air or vocal strain
Early-stage throat irritation
They may not be sufficient alone for severe infections, strep throat, or symptoms lasting more than a few days.
Safety and Precautions
While cloves are generally safe when used in moderation, keep the following in mind:
Do not overuse clove oil internally. Concentrated clove oil can irritate the mouth and throat if used undiluted.
Limit whole clove use to 1–2 cloves at a time.
Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult a healthcare provider before using cloves medicinally.
Children should not use clove oil and should only use mild preparations under supervision.
If your sore throat is accompanied by high fever, difficulty breathing, or lasts more than 3–5 days, seek medical attention.
Cloves vs. Other Natural Remedies
Compared to common remedies like ginger or saltwater gargles, cloves stand out because they:
Continued on next page:
