Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum) have been used in traditional medicine systems, such as Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine, to support respiratory health and alleviate symptoms of colds and coughs. The aromatic spice is believed to possess warming, expectorant, and antimicrobial properties, and is often included in herbal remedies and teas for soothing sore throats and easing congestion. The main active compound in cloves, eugenol, does exhibit antimicrobial activity in laboratory settings, which may partially explain the traditional use.

However, while there are a few in vitro studies demonstrating that clove extracts can inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and viruses, robust clinical evidence in humans demonstrating effectiveness for preventing or treating the common cold is lacking. Most of the support for clove’s use in colds is based on longstanding traditional practices rather than modern clinical trials. As such, while cloves have a strong historical basis for use in managing colds and related symptoms, scientific validation remains limited, and their role should be considered complementary rather than primary in cold prevention or treatment.

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