Holding Cloves in Your Mouth: A Natural Way to Relieve Toothache

For centuries, cloves have been one of nature’s most trusted remedies for oral pain. This small, aromatic spice—often found in every kitchen—carries a hidden power that goes far beyond its warm flavor. Many people have discovered that simply holding a few cloves in the mouth and gently sucking on them can provide quick and natural relief from toothache.

While this may sound like an old folk remedy, science has given us a good reason to believe it works. Cloves contain eugenol, a powerful natural compound known for its pain-relieving, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Why Cloves Work for Toothache

Cloves are more than a spice—they’re a natural painkiller. The main active component, eugenol, acts much like a mild anesthetic. When you hold cloves near the aching tooth, this compound seeps into the surrounding tissue and numbs the nerves, reducing discomfort.

Eugenol also has antibacterial and antifungal properties, which can help fight oral infections and reduce swelling caused by gum irritation or minor abscesses. This makes cloves one of the simplest and most effective home remedies for dental pain, especially when professional care is not immediately available.

How to Use Whole Cloves for Toothache Relief

If you don’t have clove oil at home, whole cloves can still do the job effectively. Here’s how to use them safely:

Take 2–5 whole cloves.
Choose firm, unbroken cloves for best results.
Place them near the painful tooth.
You can hold them between your cheek and gum or next to the sore area.
Suck on them gently.
This releases the natural clove oil slowly into your mouth.
Chew them lightly once they soften.
Gently crushing them with your teeth helps release more of the active compounds.
Keep them in for 10–15 minutes.
You should start feeling mild numbness and relief within a few minutes.
Spit them out and rinse with warm water.
This removes any residue and refreshes the mouth.