Lavanga (Clove)
Clove
Syzygium aromaticum
Warming aromatic bud that numbs toothache and kindles sluggish digestion.
Clove tree · Tree · Parts: Flower bud, Bud oil
- Taste (rasa)
- Pungent, bitter
- Energy (virya)
- Heating
- Balances
- Kapha, Vata
What it is used for
Benefits
- Clove oil applied to a sore tooth gives short-term numbing relief
- Chewed bud or decoction eases nausea, bloating and gas
- Warming spice for cough, cold and a heavy, congested chest
How it has been used
Traditional uses & benefits
Lavanga is a sharp, warming, deepana spice — used in pinches for pain, breath and cold digestion.
Traditional uses
- Toothache and gum discomfort
- Nausea and cold, gassy digestion
- Cough and throat irritation in cold weather
Practical guidance
- 1One or two cloves is a dose — this is a potent spice, not a bulk herb.
- 2For teeth, press a single clove near the sore spot rather than applying neat oil.
- 3Heating; reduce in summer, with acidity, or if you bleed easily.
How much
Dosage
Culinary use freely; 1-2 buds chewed or 250-500 mg powder daily. Oil for external and dental use only, diluted.
How to take it
Preparation & usage
Clove and ginger decoction
Simmer 2 cloves and a slice of fresh ginger in a cup of water for 5 minutes; strain.
After a heavy meal, or at the start of a cold
Toothache dab
Dilute 1 drop clove oil in 4-5 drops coconut oil and dab on the tooth with cotton.
As needed, short term, until you see a dentist
Read this first
Precautions
- Clove oil is strong — never use it undiluted on gums or swallow it
- Large doses may increase bleeding risk with blood thinners
- Very heating; reduce with high Pitta, acidity or ulcers
Where this comes from
Sources
Where to buy
Shop this remedy
Affiliate links: we may earn a small commission if you buy through these shops, at no extra cost to you. We do not review or endorse any product. Read the full disclosure
- Amazon USWidest choice, fast US delivery
- iHerbShips to US, UK and EU; third-party tested brands
- Banyan BotanicalsUS organic Ayurvedic specialist
If you buy, look for a batch-tested product that states the botanical name and tests for heavy metals. Check with your doctor first if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding.