How to Soak Cloves in Water: A Simple Guide

Introduction

Clove water has become a popular wellness habit in the United States, especially among people looking for simple, natural ways to support digestion, hydration, and overall health. The preparation is straightforward: soak a few cloves in water overnight and drink the infusion the next morning.

But how exactly should you soak cloves in water for the best results? How long is enough, and how many cloves should you use? This guide breaks it down step by step, supported by science and expert advice.

Just soak whole cloves in clear water and enjoy a refreshing start to your day.

Why Soak Cloves in Water?

Soaking cloves in water allows their beneficial compounds—especially eugenol, flavonoids, and antioxidants—to infuse into the liquid slowly. Compared to clove tea, which is made by boiling, soaking provides a gentler extraction and a milder flavor.

Benefits of soaking:

• Easier on digestion than strong teas or oils

• Safer daily use with less concentrated eugenol

• Convenient to prepare overnight

Soaking Cloves in Cold Water vs. Warm Water

• Cold Water: Steeping clove buds overnight in cold water gives a mild, refreshing taste. It’s gentle on the stomach and hydrating, making it ideal for daily sipping, especially in warm weather.

• Warm Water: Soaking cloves in warm water releases their oils and aroma more quickly, creating a stronger, spiced flavor. It’s often preferred for digestive comfort and soothing benefits, particularly before bedtime or in cooler seasons.

👉 Both methods provide similar health-supporting properties; the choice depends on whether you want a milder, refreshing drink or a stronger, warming infusion.

Step-by-Step: How to Soak Cloves in Water

Step 1: Choose Whole Cloves

Use whole dried cloves, not ground powder. Whole buds release their oils slowly and are easier to remove after soaking.

Step 2: Measure Properly

For one serving, use 2–3 whole cloves. Using too many may result in a bitter taste and an increased risk of stomach irritation.

Step 3: Prepare the Water

Fill a glass or mason jar with about 8 ounces (1 cup) of filtered water. Room-temperature water works best for infusion.

Step 4: Soak Overnight

Drop the cloves into the water, cover the glass, and let it sit for 6–8 hours. Overnight soaking extracts enough beneficial compounds without making the water too strong.

Step 5: Drink in the Morning

Strain out the cloves and drink the infused water in the morning, preferably on an empty stomach, for better absorption.

Optional: Warm the water slightly or add a slice of lemon for taste.

How Long Should You Soak Cloves?

• Minimum: 4 hours – extracts mild flavor and some oils.

• Ideal: 6–8 hours overnight – best balance of taste and benefits.

• Maximum: 12 hours – longer soaking may create a stronger, bitter infusion.

⚠️ Avoid leaving cloves in water for more than 24 hours, as they may ferment or develop bacteria.

How Much Clove Water Should You Drink?

• One glass per day is enough for most healthy adults.

• More than this may cause nausea or interact with certain medications.

• The FDA recognizes cloves as safe in culinary amounts, but concentrated use should always be moderated.

Tips to Enhance the Flavor

• Add lemon slices for freshness.

• Mix with ginger or cinnamon sticks for a warming drink.

• Chill in the refrigerator if you prefer a refreshing cold version.

When Is the Best Time to Drink Clove Water?

• Morning: Supports digestion, provides antioxidants to start the day.

• After meals: May reduce bloating and gas.

• Avoid late night: The warming spice may be stimulating for some people.

Safety Considerations

• Pregnant women should avoid daily clove water unless cleared by a doctor.

• People on blood-thinning medication (e.g., warfarin) should be cautious, as cloves may increase bleeding risk.

• Children should not consume clove water daily due to a lack of safety data.

• Those with liver conditions should consult a healthcare provider before use.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I reuse the same cloves the next day?

No. Once soaked, most compounds have been released. Use fresh cloves each time.

2. Should I boil cloves instead of soaking?

Boiling creates clove tea, which is stronger and may cause stomach upset in some people. Soaking is gentler and safer for daily use.

3. How many days can I drink clove water?

It’s safe for most healthy adults to drink one glass daily, but always in moderation.

4. Can I soak cloves with other herbs?

Yes—ginger, cinnamon, or fennel seeds pair well with clove buds and enhance the flavor.

Conclusion

Soaking cloves in water is a simple, natural way to unlock their wellness potential. Just a few cloves, left overnight in water, create a mild infusion that supports digestion, provides antioxidants, and hydrates the body.

For most adults in the U.S., drinking one glass of clove water daily is safe and effective—provided it’s done in moderation. With the right preparation, clove water can become a refreshing addition to your daily wellness routine.

References

1. PubMed Central. “Digestive and Antioxidant Properties of Clove Infusion.” 2021.

2. Mayo Clinic Proceedings. “Safety and Efficacy of Herbal Infusions.” 2022.

3. Harvard Health Publishing. “The Science of Spices.” 2023.

4. National Institutes of Health. “Clove Compounds and Traditional Uses.” 2020.