Clove chewing trend: Does it really fix bad breath?

Bad breath has always had simple, quick fixes circulating online, but the latest one gaining attention is surprisingly old: chewing cloves.

The small brown spice, commonly found in kitchens, is now being promoted on social media as a natural breath freshener. But does it actually solve the problem or just mask it?

A review study by Mayank Agrawal and colleagues published in the Indian Journal of Research in Pharmacy and Biotechnology highlights clove as a widely studied medicinal spice with strong therapeutic potential in oral health.

Clove, or Syzygium aromaticum, has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. In dentistry, it has long been linked to toothache relief and gum care, mainly because of a compound called eugenol.

“Clove has been used by humans for medicinal applications for over two thousand years.” The researchers noted in the review.

The review links these effects to eugenol, a key bioactive compound responsible for most of clove’s medicinal action.

“Clove oil shows antimicrobial activity against oral pathogens.” The researchers noted.

What happens when you chew it

According to the study, when a clove is chewed, it slowly releases essential oils into the mouth. These oils can temporarily reduce bacteria associated with bad breath while also leaving a strong aroma that masks unpleasant odours.

Studies cited in the review show clove extracts act against oral bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans, a major contributor to tooth decay. This explains why clove continues to appear in toothpaste, mouthwash, and traditional home remedies.

But the effect does not last long.

The freshness people feel after chewing clove fades quickly. Once the aroma disappears, the underlying causes of bad breath often remain unchanged.

Bad breath, or halitosis, is commonly linked to plaque buildup, gum disease, tongue coating, dry mouth, or untreated dental decay. In some cases, it may also point to deeper digestive or systemic conditions.

The study highlights that clove does not remove plaque or cure infections. It only reduces bacteria temporarily while masking odour with its strong scent.

Support tool, not cure

The research generally views clove as a supportive natural remedy rather than a standalone treatment. It may offer quick freshness in social settings, but it does not replace proper oral hygiene.

“While clove oil shows antimicrobial activity against oral pathogens, the review does not indicate it provides a permanent cure for bad breath.” The findings suggest.

Brushing twice daily, flossing, cleaning the tongue, and regular dental check-ups remain the most effective ways to manage persistent bad breath.

The clove chewing trend is not without scientific backing. The review shows clear antimicrobial properties and long-standing medicinal use.

But calling it a cure is misleading. Clove works best as a temporary aid, not a replacement for proper dental care.

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