Herbs and spices don’t hold a special place in the kitchen only, they are used for enhancing health and even sexual vitality. Among all herbs, cloves also hold a unique place. Cloves, also known as Syzygium aromaticum, have a strong aroma and intense flavor. Various studies have proved antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and circulatory benefits of cloves. 

Now, the question arises:

Are cloves really helpful for sexual wellness? 

Cloves are used in traditional, Ayurveda, Unani medical systems. These systems have proved cloves’ role in increased libido, circulation, stamina and hormonal balance. Moreover, it can help you to get erectile and reproductive health benefits. 

Cloves originate from the Maluku islands which is also known as the Spice islands of Indonesia. In many countries and continents like Asia, Europe and Middle East, cloves are known for physical vigor, purification, vitality, strength, warmth and stimulation. These warming effects of cloves made them a proper source for sexual energy. 

Why do cloves matter for sexual health? 

Several compounds present in the cloves make it a good choice for sexual health. These include: 

(i) Eugenol: It is responsible for anti-microbial effects, anti-inflammatory actions, mild anesthetic properties, improved blood circulation and Strong antioxidant effects. These circulation and inflammation are responsible for sexual function. 

(ii) Flavonoids and polyphenols: Both improve blood vessel elasticity, energy production and nitric oxide levels to support natural arousal mechanisms.

(iii) Manganese and micronutrients: Cloves are rich in these compounds that are important for reproductive function, hormone production and energy metabolism. Vitamin K, C, magnesium and calcium present in the cloves are helpful to protect the body from diseases. 

(iv) Anti-oxidants: There is a scale to check reproductive cells and cloves rank extremely high on the ORAC scale (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity). These antioxidants boost overall vitality by protecting sperm from oxidative stress. Moreover, it helps to reduce inflammation in pelvic tissues by supporting egg quality in women. 

Sexual benefits of Cloves: 

Cloves can be helpful in following ways: 

(i) Cloves are a natural aphrodisiac that can improve blood circulation to reproductive organs and mood due to antioxidant effects. Warmth and stimulation of cloves can help to increase sensitivity with required hormonal support. That’s why these are used to improve libido and reduce stress.

(ii) Erectile function in men generally depends on nitric oxide, hormonal imbalance, blood flow and nerve sensitivity so cloves can help you to increase local circulation while supporting vascular health. Also, cloves can reduce oxidative damage that impairs nitric oxide signaling. But you should remember that cloves are not a medical treatment for ED. 

(iii) Eugenol has some numbing effect so it can reduce sensitivity on the skin. So, clove oil is used in some delay spray but if you apply raw clove directly on skin, it can burn or irritate so you should use diluted products to avoid irritation. 

(iv) Sexual stamina of the human body includes mental health, cardiovascular health, mitochondrial energy, physical vitality so cloves can support metabolism and digestion by reducing fatigue. It can be used to improve circulation and oxygenation so it can be taken before sexual activity for a better performance. 

Benefits of cloves for women: 

Cloves can be helpful for your sexual health in following ways: 

• Anti-inflammatory properties of cloves can be helpful for women to treat chronic inflammation and discomfort. 
• Increased blood flow to the pelvic area can support arousal, lubrication and sensitivity. 
• Cloves can reduce stress to boost libido and vaginal health. 

Fertility support in men and women: 

Cloves can support fertility by balancing hormones, improving antioxidant defenses and circulation that results in the reduction of oxidative stress on sperm and eggs. There are some proven animal studies and the role of cloves to improve sperm count and motility but human research is limited.  

You should note that cloves don’t contain any natural hormones. Their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects can support better endocrine system function and liver detox pathways which is important for estrogen balance. So, in short, cloves can help you to reduce stress hormones. 

What cloves can not do?

Cloves can’t-

• Replace medical treatment for erectile dysfunction.
• Guarantee increased fertility. 
• Act like pharmaceutical ED medications. 
• Fix hormonal disorders. 

Remember, cloves can be supportive but not curative. 

Dosage and safety: 

You can take 1-3 whole cloves per day or 1/4 teaspoon clove powder. If you want to use diluted clove oil, then you should remember that it is only for external use. 

There are some important points to remember that excess or high doses can cause burning sensation, liver irritation, gastrointestinal discomfort, allergic reactions or reduced blood sugar levels. So, if you have liver disease, diabetes, blood clotting disorders, pregnancy, breastfeeding then you should consult a doctor to avoid any unwanted reaction. 

Myths and facts: 

Here are some of the common myths that people have about cloves. Sometimes, people feel shy to discuss their sexual problems with doctors and they try to treat it at home. You must cross check scientific research behind every remedy to confirm its results on the human body. Some common myths are: 

1. Myth: Cloves can cure erectile dysfunction. 

Fact: This is a very common myth but cloves can support circulation. They are not a medical cure for ED. 

2. Myth: Clove oil can be applied directly to the genitals. 

Fact: No, it should not be applied directly on skin as it may cause rashes or irritation. You can use diluted clove oil to avoid burns on skin. 

3. Myth: Cloves can definitely increase libido for everyone. 

Fact: This is not really true. If you have any medical history or health issues, then cloves effect and results on your body may vary based on your current situation, metabolism, health and hormones. 

Cloves can support energy, mood, circulation, hormone function and antioxidant protection. But you shouldn’t forget that sexual health may also need proper sleep, healthy lifestyle, exercise, emotional connection, nutrition, stress reduction or medical help whenever required. 

Conclusion: With proven research, centuries of traditional use and growing scientific interest, cloves are a very powerful and demanding spice among people. Potential benefits of cloves include antioxidant strength, mood enhancing aroma, circulation enhancing properties and anti-inflammatory effects. So, humans may feel enhanced stamina, libido, blood circulation, fertility without any stress. Cloves are a natural tool to support your sexual wellness but it is not a sure thing for any sexual issues. So, if you have any issues, contact your doctor for proper treatment and bring romance to your personal life again.