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Herb library

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

  1. 1One or two cloves is a dose — this is a potent spice, not a bulk herb.
  2. 2For teeth, press a single clove near the sore spot rather than applying neat oil.
  3. 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

Used forDigestion & GutImmunity & Recovery

Common questions

What is Clove used for?

Warming aromatic bud that numbs toothache and kindles sluggish digestion. In traditional use the main applications are: 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.

What is the typical dosage of Clove?

Culinary use freely; 1-2 buds chewed or 250-500 mg powder daily. Oil for external and dental use only, diluted. Amounts vary with age, constitution and health status, so confirm your own dose with a qualified practitioner.

How and when should Clove be taken?

Clove and ginger decoction: Simmer 2 cloves and a slice of fresh ginger in a cup of water for 5 minutes; strain. Timing — After a heavy meal, or at the start of a cold

Are there any precautions with Clove?

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 Speak to a doctor before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or if you take prescription medication.

Does Clove replace medical treatment?

No. This page documents traditional Ayurvedic use for education; it is not a diagnosis or treatment and does not replace prescribed medication or professional advice.

Where to buy

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