Chemical composition

The main chemical components of clove oil are eugenol, eugenol acetate, iso-eugenol and caryophyllene.

Therapeutic properties

The therapeutic properties of clove oil are analgesic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, anti-neuralgic, carminative, anti-infectious, disinfectant, insecticide, stimulant, stomachic, uterine and tonic.

Uses 

Clove oil can be used for acne, bruises, burns and cuts, keeping infection at bay and as a pain reliever. It helps with toothache, mouth sores, rheumatism and arthritis.

It is beneficial to the digestive system, effective against vomiting, diarrhea, flatulence, spasms and parasites, as well as bad breath.

Clove oil is valuable for relieving respiratory problems, like bronchitis, asthma and tuberculosis. The disinfecting property is useful in cases of infectious diseases.

Placing a few drops of clove oil on a cotton ball and then placing the cotton ball in a linen cupboard will not only fragrance the cupboard, but will help to keep fish moths at bay.

Summary

Clove oil is useful for its disinfecting properties, relieving of pain, especially toothache, arthritis and rheumatism. It is effective when used for complaints of the digestion system.

It is also of use for skin problems - especially for skin sores and leg ulcers and as an insect repellent.

• Burners and vaporizers
  • In vapor therapy, clove oil can be useful for bronchitis and dizziness and to help lift depression, while strengthening memory and fighting weakness and lethargy.
• Massage oil
  • Clove oil can be used in a blended massage oil to assist with diarrhea, bronchitis, chills, colds, muscular numbness, spasms, rheumatism and arthritis. For toothache the outer jaw can be massaged with this oil.
  • Use a low dilution of less than 1%.
• In cream or lotion
  • When used in a cream or lotion, the positive effects of clove oil are the same as those of a massage oil and can furthermore help to sort out leg ulcers and skin sores.
  • Use in low dilution of less than 1%.
• Mouthwash
  • Clove oil can be included at a low rate as part of a mouthwash for toothache.

Clove oil blends well with

It blends well with basil, benzoin, cinnamon, lavender, ginger, sandalwood and clary sage.

Precautions

Clove oil is a very potent oil and should be used with care. If it is used in a oil, lotion or cream applied to the skin, the concentration should be well below 1%.

It may cause irritation to the skin of some individuals and can easily irritate the mucus membranes. It should  be avoided during pregnancy.