Clove Tea Recipe: If you’re looking for a simple yet powerful herbal tea to add to your wellness routine, clove tea might just become your next favorite. Cloves, those tiny aromatic flower buds we often associate with wintery dishes or baked treats, are packed with medicinal properties that have been used in traditional healing systems for centuries.
But what makes clove tea so special? It’s not just about the flavor – though it does have a rich, slightly sweet, and spicy taste. The real magic lies in its health benefits. From fighting infections to soothing sore throats and aiding digestion, clove tea is a hidden gem in the world of herbal beverages.
This article is your ultimate step-by-step guide to making clove tea at home—from listing all the ingredients you need to walking you through the preparation process. Whether you want to enjoy it hot or iced, pure or with a twist of lemon and honey, we’ve got you covered.
Health Benefits of Clove Tea
Clove tea isn’t just about warming up your soul on a chilly evening; it’s packed with wellness benefits that make it worth sipping regularly. Here’s what makes this tea a must-have in your natural health toolkit:
- Natural pain reliever: Clove contains eugenol, a compound with natural anesthetic properties. If you’ve ever used clove oil for a toothache, you know what I’m talking about. Drinking clove tea can help reduce internal inflammation and pain—especially joint pain or menstrual cramps.
- Supports digestion: Ever feel that bloated, heavy feeling after a meal? Clove tea helps stimulate digestive enzymes, promoting better breakdown of food. It can reduce gas, indigestion, and even nausea. It’s often recommended after heavy meals or during detox routines.
- Boosts your immune system: Cloves are high in antioxidants, which help fight off oxidative stress and free radicals. The tea acts as a mild immune booster, helping your body fend off common colds, coughs, and infections.
- Antibacterial & antifungal properties: Clove is known to fight off harmful bacteria and fungi. Sipping clove tea when you feel under the weather can help your body eliminate pathogens naturally.
- Respiratory relief: Got a cough? The expectorant properties of cloves help loosen mucus and ease respiratory issues. Add some honey and lemon, and you’ve got a natural cough remedy.
Drinking clove tea isn’t a magic bullet—but it’s a healthy habit that delivers a ton of small wins for your body over time.
Why Make Clove Tea at Home?
Sure, you can buy pre-made clove tea bags from the store, but making it at home is a whole different experience. First of all, you know exactly what’s going into your cup—no mystery additives or artificial flavors. Plus, freshly brewed clove tea has a stronger aroma and more potent flavor compared to the store-bought version.
Here’s why homemade clove tea wins every time:
- Purity and freshness: When you brew tea using whole cloves, you’re getting the essential oils and active compounds directly from the source, without processing or chemical preservatives.
- Control over ingredients: Want to add a cinnamon stick or a slice of fresh ginger? Maybe a touch of honey or lemon? Homemade clove tea is highly customizable.
- Cost-effective: A small jar of cloves can last for weeks, and compared to buying organic herbal tea blends, it’s a wallet-friendly option.
- Sustainable and simple: No unnecessary packaging, and you can compost your leftover cloves. It’s an easy way to go green while staying healthy.
So if you’ve got 10 minutes and a handful of cloves, you’re ready to make a soothing, aromatic, health-boosting tea right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Clove Tea
Here’s the beauty of clove tea—it’s made with minimal ingredients, but each one plays a powerful role. Let’s break down what you need:
Basic Ingredients:
- Whole cloves – 4 to 6 buds per cup (don’t use ground cloves—they’re too strong and messy)
- Water – 1 to 2 cups, depending on how strong you like it
Optional Add-ins:
- Fresh ginger slices – for added warmth and digestion support
- Cinnamon stick – adds depth and natural sweetness
- Lemon juice or lemon slices – boosts vitamin C and adds a citrusy zing
- Raw honey or maple syrup – natural sweeteners that complement the spice
- Mint leaves – adds freshness, especially for iced tea versions
Having these ingredients on hand allows you to tailor your tea to your mood or health needs. Want something relaxing? Add chamomile. Feeling under the weather? Add more ginger and honey. The possibilities are endless.
Tools and Equipment Required
Don’t worry—you don’t need a fancy tea set or a barista setup to make clove tea. Here’s what you’ll need from your kitchen:
- A small saucepan or kettle – to boil the water and cloves
- A strainer or fine mesh sieve – to filter out the cloves and any other herbs
- A teaspoon – for measuring cloves and optional ingredients
- A mug or teacup – of course, for serving
- Optional: a teapot if you’re making a larger batch or serving guests
That’s it. No need for a tea infuser unless you’re adding loose leaf herbs. The simplicity of the process is what makes this a perfect beginner-friendly herbal tea.
Step-by-Step Guide to Make Clove Tea
Alright, let’s dive into the actual process. Brewing clove tea is easy, and once you do it a couple of times, it’ll become second nature.
Step 1: Preparing the Cloves
Start by gathering whole dried cloves—about 1 to 2 teaspoons for one cup of tea. Rinse them lightly just to remove any dust from storage. Cloves are tiny, but they carry the kind of ancient, warm aroma that feels like your grandma’s kitchen whispering wisdom. Set them aside.
Step 2: Boiling the Water
Pour fresh water into a pot and set it over medium heat. Bring it to a gentle boil. Not a chaotic, bubbling volcano—just a calm, rolling boil. Good tea starts with patience, not aggression.
Step 3: Brewing the Tea
Add the cloves to the boiling water and reduce the heat to low. Let them simmer for 5–10 minutes. The longer they steep, the stronger and more aromatic the tea becomes. You’ll smell that warm, spicy-sweet scent drifting up like incense.
Step 4: Optional Flavor Additions
Sweeten with honey, add ginger slices, or squeeze some lemon. Personalize it. Make it yours. Sip slowly. Let it heal.
How to Make Iced Clove Tea
Love your tea chilled and refreshing? Iced clove tea is the perfect summer twist on this classic herbal remedy. It keeps all the benefits while delivering a cool and revitalizing punch—ideal for hot afternoons or post-workout hydration.
Cold Brew Method:
This is the most effortless way to make iced clove tea.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of whole cloves
- 4 cups of filtered water
- Optional: lemon slices, fresh mint, or honey
Instructions:
- Add the cloves to a large jar or pitcher.
- Pour in cold water and give it a gentle stir.
- Cover and refrigerate for 8–12 hours (overnight is best).
- Strain out the cloves and serve over ice.
- Add lemon or sweetener to taste.
This cold brew method extracts flavor more gently, giving you a smooth, subtly spicy tea that’s easy on the palate. It’s also less bitter than hot-brewed tea, which some people prefer.
Quick Iced Version (Hot Brew + Ice):
If you’re short on time, just make the regular hot version of clove tea and let it cool. Then:
- Refrigerate it for 1–2 hours.
- Pour over ice in a glass.
- Add lemon, honey, or even sparkling water for an herbal spritzer.
Either way, you get a refreshing, detoxifying drink that’s just as good as a sugary soda—but a hundred times healthier.
Customizing Your Clove Tea
The beauty of clove tea lies in how versatile it is. You don’t need to stick with just one flavor profile. Whether you like it spicy, citrusy, sweet, or herbal, there’s a way to make clove tea suit your taste buds and mood.
Flavor-Boosting Add-ins:
- Ginger: Adds a warming kick and helps with nausea and digestion.
- Cinnamon: Pairs perfectly with cloves, and helps regulate blood sugar.
- Lemon or orange peel: Adds a citrusy brightness and extra antioxidants.
- Honey or maple syrup: Natural sweeteners that soften the spice.
- Peppermint or spearmint: Refreshing and cooling, especially great in iced versions.
- Chamomile: Adds a calming effect—great for evening tea.
- Green or black tea leaves: For a caffeine boost and added flavor depth.
Adjusting Strength:
Want a more intense flavor? Use more cloves or let them simmer longer. Prefer something mild? Reduce the simmer time to 5 minutes and skip additional spices.
Experiment with ratios and extras until you find your signature clove tea blend. Think of it like a DIY herbal mix—you’re the alchemist in your kitchen!
Tips for Perfect Clove Tea
Making clove tea might seem easy, but there are a few tricks that can take it from just “okay” to “wow, this is amazing.” Let’s go over some key tips to help you nail it every single time.
1. Use Whole Cloves Only
Ground cloves are too strong and can make your tea bitter or gritty. Whole cloves release flavor more gradually and are easy to strain out.
2. Don’t Over-Boil
Boiling too long at a high temperature can make the tea taste burnt. Always bring to a boil gently, then simmer.
3. Mind the Steeping Time
5 to 10 minutes is the sweet spot. Any longer, and it might become overpowering. If you’re adding other spices, consider their steeping time too—some (like cinnamon) can turn bitter if overcooked.
4. Sweeten Wisely
Skip the refined sugar. Use raw honey, agave, or maple syrup if you want to enhance the taste while keeping it healthy.
5. Serve It Fresh
Clove tea is best when freshly brewed. If you’re storing it, consume within 24–48 hours for the best flavor and benefits.
6. Clean Your Pot Well
Cloves leave a strong scent and oil residue. After each use, wash your pot thoroughly to avoid lingering flavors affecting your next brew.
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll brew the perfect cup every single time.
How Often Can You Drink Clove Tea?
You might be wondering—is clove tea safe for daily consumption? Like with any herbal remedy, moderation is key.
Safe Intake Guidelines:
- 1 to 2 cups per day is considered safe for most people.
- Clove tea is potent. You don’t need to drink liters of it to reap the benefits.
- Avoid taking it on an empty stomach if you’re prone to acidity.
Caution for Certain Conditions:
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Consult your doctor first, as cloves can stimulate the uterus in large amounts.
- Blood-thinning medication: Cloves contain eugenol, a natural blood thinner, so if you’re on meds like aspirin or warfarin, talk to a doctor.
- Children under 6: Best to avoid unless recommended by a pediatrician.
Used wisely, clove tea is a safe and natural addition to your daily wellness rituals. But always listen to your body—and your doctor.
Storage Tips for Clove Tea
Let’s face it—sometimes you want your tea ready to go. Can you make clove tea in advance? Absolutely! You just need to store it properly to preserve its flavor and health benefits.
Refrigeration:
- Store leftover clove tea in a glass jar or bottle with a lid.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove—avoid microwaving, which can destroy the delicate oils.
Make a Concentrate:
- Brew a strong version (double the cloves) and store it in the fridge.
- When ready to drink, dilute with hot or cold water, and add flavorings as needed.
- This method saves time and works great if you’re making clove tea for multiple days.
Avoid Plastic Containers:
Clove oil is potent and may react with plastic, altering both the flavor and safety of the tea. Always use glass or stainless steel for storage.
Keeping a small batch ready means you’ll always have a comforting, healthy drink at your fingertips.
Clove Tea for Weight Loss – Does it Work?
You’ve probably seen clove tea pop up in weight loss detox recipes all over the internet. But does it actually help you lose weight? The short answer is: it can support your weight loss journey, but it’s not a magic bullet.
Here’s how clove tea can help with weight loss:
- Boosts metabolism: Cloves contain compounds that stimulate metabolism and help your body burn calories more efficiently. Drinking a warm cup of clove tea in the morning can kickstart your digestive system.
- Reduces bloating: One of the quickest ways to feel lighter is by reducing water retention and bloating. Clove tea helps eliminate excess gas and supports healthy digestion, making your stomach feel flatter.
- Suppresses appetite: Thanks to its strong flavor and active compounds, clove tea can act as a natural appetite suppressant. Drinking it before meals might help you eat less.
- Balances blood sugar: Stable blood sugar levels are crucial for weight loss. Clove has been shown to help regulate blood sugar and insulin levels, which in turn can help control cravings.
- Improves digestion: When your digestive system is running smoothly, your body is better at breaking down and absorbing nutrients—and flushing out waste more effectively.
How to use clove tea for weight loss:
- Drink 1 cup in the morning, preferably warm and unsweetened.
- Add lemon and ginger for added fat-burning properties.
- Combine it with a healthy diet and regular exercise for best results.
Clove tea won’t melt away the pounds on its own, but it’s a smart, natural addition to any wellness or weight loss plan.
Clove Tea vs. Other Herbal Teas
Herbal teas each come with their own unique set of benefits. Let’s see how clove tea stacks up against some other popular options.
| Tea | Main Benefit | Flavor Profile | Best Time to Drink |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clove Tea | Anti-inflammatory, immune support | Spicy, warm, aromatic | Morning or post-meal |
| Ginger Tea | Digestive aid, anti-nausea | Spicy, sharp, earthy | Morning or after meals |
| Chamomile Tea | Calming, sleep aid | Mild, floral, slightly sweet | Evening before bed |
| Peppermint Tea | Bloating relief, digestive support | Cool, minty, refreshing | After meals or in the afternoon |
| Green Tea | Antioxidant-rich, boosts metabolism | Slightly bitter, earthy | Morning or early afternoon |
Clove tea is one of the more intense and warming teas, perfect for colder seasons or when you’re feeling under the weather. If you’re into bold, spicy teas, it’s a great alternative to ginger or cinnamon blends.
Potential Side Effects of Clove Tea
Just because clove tea is natural doesn’t mean it’s without risks. While most people can enjoy it safely, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Possible Side Effects:
- Stomach upset: Drinking too much clove tea may irritate the digestive lining, especially on an empty stomach.
- Low blood sugar: Since cloves may lower blood sugar, those on diabetes medication should monitor their levels closely.
- Allergic reactions: Though rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions such as rashes or breathing difficulty.
- Liver concerns (in excess): In extremely high doses, eugenol—the active compound in cloves—can be toxic to the liver.
Who Should Avoid It?
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women (without doctor approval)
- Children under age 6
- People on blood thinners or anticoagulant medication
- Those with ulcers or severe digestive issues
The bottom line? Enjoy clove tea in moderation. A cup or two a day is generally safe and beneficial, but more isn’t always better—especially with potent spices like cloves.
FAQs about Clove Tea Recipe
1. Can I drink clove tea every day?
Yes, you can enjoy clove tea daily, but limit yourself to 1–2 cups per day. Too much clove can cause digestive discomfort or interact with medications.
2. Is clove tea safe during pregnancy?
Clove tea in small amounts is generally safe, but it’s always best to consult your doctor before consuming any herbal teas during pregnancy.
3. Can children drink clove tea?
Small amounts may be safe for older children, but it’s not recommended for kids under 6 due to its strong properties. Always consult a pediatrician first.
4. Does clove tea help with sore throat?
Absolutely. Clove tea has natural antibacterial and soothing properties that can ease throat pain and reduce inflammation.
5. What does clove tea taste like?
It has a bold, warm, and spicy flavor with a slightly sweet undertone. It pairs beautifully with honey, ginger, and lemon.
Conclusion
So there you have it—clove tea isn’t just another herbal trend. It’s a time-tested, powerful drink loaded with health benefits, from fighting inflammation to supporting digestion and boosting immunity. Whether you’re sipping it hot on a cozy evening or chilling it with lemon and ice in summer, clove tea offers both comfort and healing.
Just remember—moderation is key. A cup or two a day is more than enough to enjoy its benefits without any side effects. So grab some whole cloves, boil some water, and treat yourself to a warm (or cold) mug of wellness.
Now it’s your turn to try it. Brew your first cup today and let the warmth of clove tea work its magic!
