11 Kitchen Spices That Work Better Than Your Medicine Cabinet

6. Cloves — Antiseptic and toothache relief

Cloves carry a strong, aromatic flavor used in spice blends and sweets. The compound eugenol found in cloves has long been used in dental care for temporary toothache relief and has antiseptic properties in traditional preparations. In modest culinary doses, cloves can flavor rice, stews, and chai while contributing mild antimicrobial benefits. For a toothache, a whole clove gently held against a sore tooth can sometimes provide temporary relief, but this is a stopgap — see a dentist for persistent pain. Clove oil is concentrated and can numb tissue; avoid applying pure oil undiluted in the mouth without guidance, especially for children. People with bleeding disorders or those on blood-thinning therapy should be cautious with large amounts of clove oil. Sticking to culinary amounts in baked dishes, rice, or spiced teas gives flavor and gentle supportive effects without the risks of concentrated use.