Products
Whole and powdered cloves and the clove oil are available in pharmacies and drugstores. The preparations are also included in some medicines, such as a gel for teething children, rheumatism ointments and mouthwash.
Stem plant
The clove tree from the myrtle family (Myrtaceae) is an evergreen tree native to the Moluccas in Indonesia and is now also cultivated in many tropical regions of the world. The so-called Spice Islands are also home to the nutmeg tree (nutmeg).
Medicinal drug
The medicinal drug is the cloves (Caryophylli flos). They consist of the whole flower buds that have been dried until they turn reddish brown. The pharmacopoeia requires a minimum essential oil content. Traditional preparations are made from the medicinal drug. These include the aromatic tincture PH and Tinctura Opii crocata PH 5.
Ingredients
Cloves contain an essential oil called clove oil (Caryophylli floris aetheroleum PhEur). It exists as a clear, yellow liquid that turns brown when exposed to air. The main components include eugenol (over 75%), β-caryophyllene, and acetyleugenol.
Effects
Clove oil has antimicrobial (antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal), antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, spasmolytic and local anesthetic properties.
Indications for use
Traditional indications for the use of the preparations include:
- Inflammation of the mouth and throat, sore throat (mouthwash).
- Toothache (local analgesia)
- Teething children (finished medicines).
- Digestive disorders (finished medicinal products)
- Rheumatic complaints (rheumatic ointments)
Clove powder is a typical spice of Advent and Christmas, which is included in gingerbread spice, pear bread spice, gastric bread as well as mulled wine spice.
Dosage
According to the directions for use. For local application in the mouth, the essential oil can also be applied undiluted. Dilutions are also used, especially for children. The oil is applied directly to the affected tooth with the help of a cotton swab. It should not come into contact with the oral mucosa or skin! Do not soak cotton swab too much or let it drip off.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Infants, young children < 2 years (undiluted essential oil).
For full precautions, see the drug label (e.g., UK).
Interactions
Drug-drug interactions have been described with anticoagulants.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects include hypersensitivity reactions, irritation, and inflammation. Cloves have an intense odor and taste. The essential oil should not be taken undiluted because this can lead to poisoning.
