There are some combinations that are simply meant to be together. Ginger and cloves are one of them. These two humble spices, found in kitchens around the world, have been used for centuries in traditional medicine systems across Asia, Europe, and beyond. But when you combine them? Something magical happens.
I first discovered this powerful pairing during a visit to an Ayurvedic practitioner years ago. I was struggling with digestion issues and low energy, and she handed me a small cup of warm, fragrant tea. The flavor was instantly recognizable—ginger’s warm, spicy kick, and cloves’ deep, almost sweet warmth. Within minutes, I felt my digestion settle and a gentle warmth spread through my body.
“That’s just ginger and cloves,” she said with a smile. “Two of the most powerful spices in your kitchen.”
Since then, I’ve made this combination a regular part of my wellness routine. And today, I want to share with you everything this dynamic duo can do for your health.
The Power of Ginger
Ginger has been used medicinally for over 5,000 years. Ancient Sanskrit texts mention it, and it was so valued in ancient Greece that it was imported from Asia at great expense. Today, modern science is confirming what traditional healers have always known.
What makes ginger so special?
Gingerols and shogaols: These are the active compounds in ginger responsible for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. When ginger is dried or cooked, gingerols convert to shogaols, which are even more potent.
Digestive powerhouse: Ginger stimulates digestive enzymes, helps move food through the digestive tract, and can relieve nausea of all kinds—morning sickness, motion sickness, post-surgery nausea.
Anti-inflammatory superstar: Studies show ginger can reduce inflammation similarly to some anti-inflammatory drugs, but without the side effects.
Immune support: Ginger has antimicrobial properties and can help fight off respiratory infections.
Pain relief: Multiple studies show ginger can reduce muscle pain and soreness after exercise, and may help with osteoarthritis pain.
The Power of Cloves
Cloves are the dried flower buds of the clove tree, and they pack an incredible amount of healing power into their tiny form. They’ve been used in traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda for centuries.
What makes cloves so special?
Eugenol: This is the primary active compound in cloves, and it’s a powerful anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial agent. It’s actually used in dentistry for its numbing properties.
Pain relief: Clove oil has been used for toothaches for centuries, and modern research confirms its effectiveness as a natural pain reliever.
Digestive aid: Cloves stimulate digestive enzymes and can help reduce gas, bloating, and indigestion.
Blood sugar support: Some studies suggest cloves may help improve insulin function and lower blood sugar.
Liver protection: The antioxidants in cloves may help protect the liver from damage.
Respiratory health: Cloves can help loosen phlegm and relieve coughs.
When Ginger Meets Cloves: The Synergy
Here’s where it gets really interesting. When you combine ginger and cloves, their effects amplify each other. They work synergistically to create something even more powerful than either spice alone.
Enhanced anti-inflammatory action: Both spices work through different pathways to reduce inflammation. Together, they provide comprehensive anti-inflammatory support throughout the body.
Improved digestion: Ginger stimulates digestive enzymes while cloves reduce gas and bloating. Together, they’re a digestive dream team.
Better absorption: Some compounds in cloves may help your body absorb the beneficial compounds in ginger more effectively.
Balanced energy: Ginger is warming and stimulating; cloves are warming and grounding. Together, they create a balanced, sustained energy without the jitters of caffeine.
Immune system support: Their antimicrobial properties work together to help your body fight off pathogens more effectively.
The Many Ways to Use Ginger and Cloves Together
- The Classic Ginger-Clove Tea
The simplest and most soothing way to enjoy this combination.
What you’ll need:
· 1-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced thin
· 3-4 whole cloves
· 2 cups water
· Honey or lemon to taste (optional)
Instructions:
Bring water to a boil. Add ginger and cloves, reduce heat, and simmer for 10-15 minutes. Strain, add honey or lemon if desired, and sip slowly.
This tea is wonderful for digestion after meals, for soothing a sore throat, or for warming up on a cold day.
- Morning Metabolism Shot
For a concentrated boost first thing in the morning.
What you’ll need:
· 1 tablespoon fresh ginger juice (grate ginger and squeeze)
· 2-3 drops clove essential oil (food-grade) OR ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
· 2 tablespoons warm water
· Optional: lemon juice, honey
Instructions:
Mix all ingredients and drink on an empty stomach. This potent shot can kickstart digestion and metabolism for the day.
Caution: Clove essential oil is extremely potent. Use only food-grade oil and start with just 1-2 drops.
- Digestive Tonic
Perfect after heavy meals.
What you’ll need:
· 1 cup warm water
· ½ teaspoon grated fresh ginger
· ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
· 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
· 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
Mix all ingredients and sip slowly after eating. This can help prevent bloating and support digestion.
- Warming Spice Blend
Make a batch of this blend to keep in your pantry.
What you’ll need:
· ¼ cup ground ginger
· 2 tablespoons ground cloves
Instructions:
Mix thoroughly and store in an airtight jar. Use ½ to 1 teaspoon in teas, smoothies, oatmeal, or baked goods.
- Honey-Ginger-Clove Paste
A traditional remedy for coughs and sore throats.
What you’ll need:
· ¼ cup raw honey
· 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
· 1 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions:
Mix well and store in a small jar. Take ½ teaspoon as needed for coughs or sore throats. The honey soothes while the ginger and cloves fight infection.
- Warm Compress for Pain
For localized pain like arthritis or muscle soreness.
What you’ll need:
· 1 tablespoon grated ginger
· 1 teaspoon ground cloves
· 2 cups hot water
· Clean cloth
Instructions:
Steep ginger and cloves in hot water for 10 minutes. Strain, soak the cloth in the warm liquid, wring out, and apply to painful areas. Cover with a dry towel and leave for 15-20 minutes.
What the Science Says
Modern research is increasingly validating the traditional uses of ginger and cloves:
A 2015 study found that a combination of ginger and clove extract significantly reduced inflammation in animal models, more than either extract alone.
Research on diabetes suggests that both ginger and cloves can help improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar. Together, they may be even more effective.
A 2020 review of multiple studies confirmed that both spices have potent antimicrobial properties against a wide range of bacteria and fungi.
Studies on pain management show that both ginger and cloves can reduce pain, and some traditional medicine systems combine them for enhanced effect.
Precautions and Considerations
While ginger and cloves are generally safe for most people, there are some important considerations:
Blood thinning: Both ginger and cloves have mild blood-thinning effects. If you take blood-thinning medication (like warfarin), consult your doctor before using these spices medicinally.
Blood sugar: Both can lower blood sugar. If you have diabetes and take medication, monitor your levels closely.
Pregnancy: Ginger is generally considered safe in moderate amounts (like in tea), but high doses may not be advisable. Cloves in food amounts are fine, but concentrated supplements should be avoided. Always consult your healthcare provider.
Clove oil caution: Essential oil of cloves is extremely potent. Never take it undiluted, and use only food-grade oil for internal use. Start with very small amounts.
Surgery: Because of blood-thinning effects, stop using concentrated forms at least 2 weeks before any scheduled surgery.
Allergies: Some people may be allergic to either spice. Start with small amounts to test tolerance.
A 7-Day Ginger-Clove Reset
If you’re ready to experience the benefits of this powerful duo, here’s a simple 7-day plan:
Daily routine:
· Morning: Metabolism shot or warm tea
· After meals: Digestive tonic (especially after larger meals)
· Evening: Warm ginger-clove tea before bed
Days 1-2: Focus on digestion. Notice how your stomach feels after meals. Less bloating? More comfortable digestion?
Days 3-4: Pay attention to energy levels. Many people report more stable, sustained energy throughout the day.
Days 5-7: Notice any changes in inflammation—achy joints, muscle soreness, skin issues.
By day 7, you’ll have a good sense of how this combination affects your body.
Why This Combination Deserves a Place in Your Wellness Routine
Ginger and cloves are two of the most accessible, affordable, and effective natural remedies available. They’re likely already in your kitchen, waiting to be used in more powerful ways.
What I love most about this combination is its versatility. You can use it for so many different purposes—digestion, inflammation, immunity, pain relief—with just two simple ingredients. It’s the kind of remedy that has stood the test of time because it actually works.
I’ve used ginger and cloves together for years, for everything from settling my stomach after a heavy meal to fighting off the first signs of a cold. It never fails to make me feel better.
This isn’t complicated. It isn’t expensive. It’s just good, honest, natural medicine that your grandmother probably knew about. And now you know about it too.
So grate that ginger. Grind those cloves. Make that tea. And let these two powerful spices show you what they can do.
Your body will thank you.
Have you tried combining ginger and cloves? What benefits have you noticed? I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below!
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