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In traditional practices, including elements of Chinese medicine, cloves are valued for their warming qualities. Drinking the tea in the morning is thought to gently awaken the senses and support the body’s natural rhythms as you begin your day. Unlike stronger caffeinated drinks, it offers a soothing, spiced warmth that many find comforting without the jitters.
Research highlights that cloves stand out among spices for their high antioxidant content. Studies note that clove extracts show notable antioxidant activity, which helps the body manage everyday oxidative stress from normal living.
The Science-Backed Properties Behind Clove Tea
Cloves have been studied for their rich profile of bioactive compounds. Here’s what stands out in available research:
Antioxidant Support: Cloves contain eugenol and other phenolics that laboratory tests show can help neutralize free radicals. Some analyses suggest clove’s antioxidant capacity is particularly high compared to many common spices and even certain fruits and vegetables.
Anti-Inflammatory Potential: Eugenol has demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects in various preclinical studies. This may contribute to the soothing sensation many people report after enjoying spiced teas.
Digestive Comfort: Traditional use points to cloves as a carminative—something that supports normal digestion and helps ease occasional bloating or discomfort after eating.
Oral Wellness Connection: While clove oil is well-known in dental applications for its properties, the tea form offers a milder way to enjoy the spice’s natural aroma and warmth.
It’s important to note that most strong evidence comes from lab, animal, or traditional use studies. Human clinical trials on clove tea specifically are still limited, so results can vary from person to person.
Potential Everyday Benefits of Adding Clove Tea to Your Routine
People who enjoy clove tea in the morning often mention a few common observations:
A gentle warming effect that feels invigorating as the day starts
Support for comfortable digestion throughout the morning
A pleasant spiced aroma that can make the morning ritual more enjoyable
An easy way to add more plant compounds to a simple beverage
Because it is low in calories and naturally caffeine-free (unless you blend it with black or green tea), it fits easily into many wellness routines without extra sugar or stimulants.
Here are some practical ways clove tea may fit into daily life (based on traditional use and general research):
Starting the day with a warm, aromatic drink
Enjoying after meals for digestive ease
Using as a flavorful alternative to plain water or overly sweet beverages
Pairing with other warming spices like ginger or cinnamon for variety
How to Make Clove Tea at Home – Simple Step-by-Step Guide
Making clove tea is straightforward and takes just a few minutes. Here’s a basic recipe for one serving:
Ingredients:
3–5 whole cloves (start with fewer if you’re new to the flavor)
1 cup (about 240 ml) of fresh water
Optional: a slice of fresh lemon, a small piece of ginger, or a teaspoon of honey for taste (add honey after brewing so it doesn’t lose its properties)
Steps:
Bring the water to a gentle boil in a small pot or kettle.
Place the whole cloves in a mug or teapot.
Pour the hot water over the cloves.
Let it steep for 5–10 minutes—the longer you steep, the stronger the flavor.
Strain out the cloves (or simply remove them if using a mug).
Add lemon or ginger if desired, and enjoy warm.
For a morning boost, many people prepare it fresh right after waking. You can also make a small batch and reheat gently throughout the morning.
Pro Tip: Use high-quality whole cloves rather than pre-ground powder for the best aroma and flavor release. Store them in an airtight container away from light and heat.
Tips to Make Clove Tea Part of Your Morning Routine