Specifics

Personal Experience, Research, Possible Actions

Clove is a wonderful digestive oil and can be added to blends that are massaged into the abdomen to assist digestion.

For colds & flu prevention use at a 1% dilution, 5-6 drops per ounce of carrier oil or lotion. Combine with other oils such as Ravintsara, Pine, Sandalwood, Lavender and Ginger when a cold is coming on.

Clove has a strong character and can be used to emotionally support someone who is feeling weak and in need of more energy. Its spicy, warm aroma lends itself to an uplifting effect when used in a blend.

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Therapeutic Properties

• Analgesic - numbs pain
• Antifungal
• Antiinfectious- assists in fighting germs/infections
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antirheumatic - prevents and/or relieves rheumatic pain and swelling
• Antiviral - inhibits growth of the herpes simplex virus type 1 and 2 *
• Bactericidal - destructive to bacteria
• Carminative/tonic - settles digestion and may assist in preventing gas
• Warming

Emotional and Energetic Qualities

Warms mind and body
Fosters confidence
Promotes self-assurance
Spicy!

Recipe

For Sciatic Pain
3 drops Clove
3 drops Ginger
4 drops Spike Lavender
3 drops Helichrysum
3 drops Sandalwood
4 drops Frankincense

Add to 1 oz. trauma oil. Apply often.

References:

1. Battaglia S. The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy. 2nd edition, The International Centre of Holistic Aromatherapy, Australia, 2003
2. Davis P. Aromatherapy an A-Z. New revised edition C.W. Daniel Company Limited, England, 1999
3. Keville, K. Aromatherapy, A Complete Guide to the Healing Art, The Crossing press, USA, 1995
4. Schnaubelt K. Advanced Aromatherapy, The Science of Essential Oil Therapy, Healing Arts Press, USA, 1998

* Harris, B. Essential Oil Resource Database, In vitro and In vivo activity of eugenol on human herpes virus, Database #804, 2000.

Safety

Clove is high in a component called Eugenol, a Phenol. Phenols are considered to be the most irritating components to the skin and mucous membranes and can cause dermatitis and sensitization. If phenols are present in high concentrations in an essential oil, that oil should be used in very low dilutions on the skin (1% in a carrier) and for short periods of time. They are generally not safe for the skin in a bath. This oil should not be diffused or used in an inhaler. Phenols high oils are not used with babies and children.

Robert Tisserand, in his book Essential Oil Safety, states that oils high in eugenol should be used with caution on those with impaired liver function.

Do not use eugenol high oils (like Clove) with people who have clotting disorders, as eugenol is an anticoagulant.