Evidence supporting the use of: Clove
For the health condition: Teething
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly as a home remedy for teething pain in infants. Its use is primarily attributed to its natural analgesic and antiseptic properties, which are largely due to its high eugenol content. In many cultures, clove oil or crushed cloves have been applied to the gums of teething infants to help numb the area and reduce discomfort. However, direct scientific evidence supporting the safety and efficacy of clove oil specifically for teething in infants is limited. Most of the available scientific research on clove oil focuses on its general analgesic and antimicrobial effects, particularly in adult dental care, such as for toothaches and oral infections. While these findings partially validate the traditional rationale for using clove in oral discomfort, the safety profile for infants is less clear. Application of undiluted clove oil can be irritating or even toxic, particularly for young children. Therefore, while the traditional use is well-documented, caregivers are advised to exercise caution and consult healthcare professionals before using clove-based remedies for teething. Overall, the evidence supporting the use of clove for teething is largely traditional, with modest scientific rationale extrapolated from adult studies, but insufficient direct research or regulatory approval for infant use.
Other health conditions supported by clove
Abdominal PainAcid Indigestion
Antibiotics (alternatives to)
Anxiety
Appetite (deficient)
Arthritis
Asthma
Belching
Body Odor
Boils
Bronchitis
Bruises (healing)
Burns and Scalds
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Canker Sores
Chest Pain
Chills
Cholesterol (high)
Circulation (poor)
Colds (antiviral)
Colds (decongestant)
Colds (general)
Colds (prevention)
Colds (with fever)
Congestion (bronchial)
Congestion (lungs)
Congestion (sinus)
Constipation (adults)
Cough (damp)
Cough (dry)
Cough (general)
Cough (spastic)
Cuts
Dandruff
Depression
Diarrhea
Digestion (poor)
Dysentery
Parasites (general)
Parasites (nematodes, worms)
Parasites (tapeworm)
Scabies
Teething