# Ding Xiang (Syzygium aromaticum / Clove)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/ding-xiang-syzygium-aromaticum-clove
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-18
**Evidence Score:** 8 / 10
**Category:** Traditional Chinese Medicine
**Also Known As:** Syzygium aromaticum, Clove, Eugenia caryophyllata, Caryophyllus aromaticus, Clove buds, Laung, Lavanga, Cengkeh

## Overview

Ding Xiang (Syzygium aromaticum) contains eugenol, which inhibits bacterial growth and reduces [inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) through COX-2 enzyme suppression. This aromatic spice demonstrates [antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support), analgesic, and [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) properties in clinical applications.

## Health Benefits

- Ding Xiang enhances oral health by killing bacteria, reducing plaque formation. This promotes fresher breath and healthier gums. - It boosts [immunity](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) through its antioxidant properties, neutralizing free radicals. This reduces [oxidative stress](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) by 25%, according to research. - Ding Xiang aids [digestion](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) by increasing gastric secretions, reducing bloating. This enhances overall digestive efficiency. - It has analgesic effects, reducing toothache pain by numbing nerve endings. This is particularly effective for dental discomfort. - Ding Xiang supports respiratory health by acting as an expectorant, easing coughs. This is crucial during cold and flu seasons. - It improves [liver health](/ingredients/condition/detox) by enhancing detoxification enzymes, promoting toxin elimination. This supports overall metabolic health. - Ding Xiang enhances [skin health](/ingredients/condition/skin-health) by reducing [inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation), promoting a clearer complexion.

## Mechanism of Action

Eugenol, comprising 70-90% of clove essential oil, inhibits cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and lipoxygenase enzymes, reducing [prostaglandin](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) synthesis and inflammatory responses. The compound also disrupts bacterial cell membranes by altering lipid bilayer permeability, particularly effective against Streptococcus mutans and Porphyromonas gingivalis. Additionally, eugenol activates TRPV1 receptors while simultaneously blocking sodium channels, providing dual analgesic mechanisms.

## Clinical Summary

A randomized controlled trial with 40 participants showed clove gel reduced periodontal [inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) by 65% compared to placebo over 21 days. Studies on eugenol demonstrate minimum inhibitory concentrations of 0.25-2 mg/mL against oral pathogens. A systematic review of 12 studies found clove oil provided comparable analgesic effects to benzocaine in dental procedures. However, most clinical evidence comes from small-scale studies, with larger trials needed to establish definitive therapeutic protocols.

## Nutritional Profile

Ding Xiang (Syzygium aromaticum / Clove) is not typically consumed in large quantities as a food but rather used as a medicinal herb in small doses (1–6 g dried buds in TCM decoctions). Its bioactive and nutritional profile per 100 g of dried clove buds is as follows: **Primary Bioactive Compounds:** Eugenol (72–90% of essential oil content, approximately 15–20 g per 100 g dried buds) is the principal active constituent responsible for analgesic, [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation), and [antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) effects. Eugenyl acetate (2–27% of essential oil), β-caryophyllene (5–12% of essential oil, a sesquiterpene with anti-inflammatory and CB2 cannabinoid receptor agonist activity), and oleanolic acid (a triterpene with [hepatoprotective](/ingredients/condition/detox) and anti-inflammatory properties). **Phenolic Compounds & [Antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)s:** Total phenolic content is exceptionally high at approximately 15,000–30,000 mg GAE (gallic acid equivalents) per 100 g, ranking clove among the highest ORAC-value spices. Flavonoids include kaempferol, quercetin, and their glycosides. Gallic acid, ellagic acid, and caffeic acid are also present. Tannins (10–13% by weight). **Macronutrients (per 100 g dried):** Energy ~274 kcal; Carbohydrates ~66 g (including dietary fiber ~33–34 g, one of the highest fiber contents among spices); Protein ~6 g; Fat ~13 g (largely from essential oil fraction); Sugars ~2.4 g. **Minerals:** Manganese ~60 mg (approximately 2,600% DV per 100 g, though typical medicinal doses provide far less); Calcium ~632 mg; Magnesium ~259 mg; Potassium ~1,020 mg; Iron ~11.8 mg; Phosphorus ~104 mg; Sodium ~277 mg; Zinc ~2.3 mg; Selenium ~7.2 µg. **Vitamins:** Vitamin C ~0.2 mg; Vitamin A ~160 IU (as beta-carotene); Vitamin K ~141.8 µg; Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) ~8.8 mg; Vitamin B6 ~0.39 mg; Riboflavin (B2) ~0.22 mg; Niacin (B3) ~1.56 mg; Thiamine (B1) ~0.16 mg; Folate ~25 µg. **Bioavailability Notes:** Eugenol is rapidly absorbed through the GI tract with good oral bioavailability, though it undergoes extensive first-pass hepatic [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) (glucuronidation and sulfation), yielding a systemic bioavailability estimated at 40–55%. β-caryophyllene is lipophilic and benefits from co-administration with fats or oils for enhanced absorption. The high tannin content may reduce the bioavailability of co-ingested iron and certain proteins. Manganese from clove is moderately bioavailable (~3–5% absorption rate). In TCM, decoction preparation (boiling in water) extracts water-soluble phenolics, tannins, and a portion of volatile oils, though prolonged boiling reduces eugenol content due to volatilization; Ding Xiang is therefore traditionally added near the end of decoction (后下, hòu xià) to preserve its aromatic and medicinal properties.

## Dosage & Preparation

The recommended dosage is 1-3 grams of dried buds per day in decoction. Consult a healthcare provider before use.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Clove oil can cause contact dermatitis and mucous membrane irritation when applied undiluted, with safe topical concentrations typically below 1%. Eugenol may enhance anticoagulant effects of warfarin and aspirin by inhibiting platelet aggregation. High doses (>500mg eugenol daily) can cause hepatotoxicity and central nervous system depression. Pregnant women should avoid therapeutic doses as eugenol crosses the placental barrier, though culinary amounts are generally safe.

## Scientific Research

Studies on clove have demonstrated its [antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) and [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) properties, with some research supporting its use for oral health and [digestion](/ingredients/condition/gut-health).

## Historical & Cultural Context

Clove has been used in both Eastern and Western herbal traditions for centuries, valued for its aromatic qualities and medicinal properties, and was historically a highly prized spice in trade.

## Synergistic Combinations

Gan Jiang, Bai Zhu, Rou Gui, Chen Pi

## Frequently Asked Questions

### How much eugenol is in clove oil?

Clove essential oil contains 70-90% eugenol by weight, making it one of the richest natural sources. A single clove bud typically yields 15-20% essential oil when steam distilled.

### Can clove oil damage teeth or gums?

Undiluted clove oil can cause chemical burns and tissue necrosis when applied directly to gums. Safe dental use requires dilution to 1-2% concentration or professional supervision for higher strengths.

### What medications interact with clove supplements?

Clove can potentiate blood-thinning medications like warfarin and heparin due to eugenol's antiplatelet effects. It may also enhance sedative medications and interact with liver-metabolized drugs through CYP450 enzyme inhibition.

### How long does clove take to relieve toothache?

Topical clove oil typically provides pain relief within 5-15 minutes through eugenol's sodium channel blockade. Effects last 2-4 hours, but repeated application may be needed for sustained relief.

### Is clove effective against antibiotic-resistant bacteria?

Studies show eugenol maintains activity against MRSA and other resistant strains with MIC values of 1-4 mg/mL. It disrupts bacterial biofilms and cell walls through mechanisms different from conventional antibiotics.

### Is clove safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Clove supplements should be avoided during pregnancy, particularly in high doses, as eugenol may have uterotonic properties that could stimulate uterine contractions. While culinary amounts of clove in food are generally considered safe, pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider before taking clove supplements. Limited safety data exists for nursing mothers, so caution is recommended.

### What is the most effective form of clove for digestive benefits?

Whole dried clove buds and clove essential oil are both bioavailable forms, though whole cloves release their active compounds more gradually during digestion. For digestive support, whole cloves steeped as tea or consumed in food are often preferred to avoid the concentrated potency of essential oil, which can irritate the gastrointestinal tract at high doses. Standardized clove extracts offering consistent eugenol content (typically 15-20%) provide reliable dosing for digestive applications.

### How much clove should I take daily for immune and antioxidant benefits?

For immune support via antioxidant effects, typical dosing ranges from 250–1,000 mg of dried clove powder or equivalent extract daily, divided into multiple doses. Most clinical studies supporting clove's antioxidant and immune benefits used doses in the range of 500–1,500 mg daily, though optimal dosage varies by individual health status and form. It is advisable to start with lower doses and consult a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate amount for your specific needs.

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