Spices for men
Cloves benefits for men: libido, uses and safety
Cloves are a warming spice used in traditional medicine across Africa and Asia, often recommended to men for vitality. Many search for cloves benefits sexually for men. Here is what the evidence supports.
In short: Cloves are very high in antioxidants, mainly eugenol, and are traditionally used as an aphrodisiac. A few animal studies suggest clove extract may increase sexual activity in male rats, but there are no good human studies. Cloves are safe in food amounts, but clove oil and large doses can be harmful to the liver and affect blood clotting.
What are cloves?
Cloves are the dried flower buds of the clove tree. They are used whole or ground in curries, rice, baking and teas. Their main active compound is eugenol, which gives cloves their strong aroma and numbing effect.
Traditional uses
Cloves have been used for toothache, digestion, coughs and as a male tonic. In some traditions, cloves are chewed or made into tea to improve stamina and desire.
What research shows
Libido
Animal studies found that clove extract increased mating behaviour in male rats. There are no well-designed trials in men, so it is not known whether cloves improve libido in people.
Antioxidant effects
Cloves are among the richest spices in antioxidants. Antioxidants help protect blood vessels and sperm from oxidative damage, but eating cloves in normal food amounts adds only a small contribution.
Testosterone
Some animal studies suggest high doses may actually lower testosterone or harm sperm. This is one reason to avoid concentrated supplements.
Topical numbing
Eugenol has a numbing effect, and some delay sprays have included clove extract. See do delay sprays work.
How to use cloves safely
- Add 2 to 3 whole cloves to rice, stews or curries.
- Make tea by steeping 3 to 4 cloves in hot water for 10 minutes.
- Add ground cloves to porridge or baking.
Safety warnings
- Do not swallow clove oil. It can cause serious liver damage and is dangerous in children.
- Cloves may slow blood clotting. Avoid large amounts if you take blood thinners or before surgery.
- Cloves may lower blood sugar, so men with diabetes should be careful with supplements.
- Applying undiluted clove oil to the skin can cause burns and irritation.
Where cloves fit
Cloves are a healthy, flavourful spice, but they are not a proven sexual treatment. For stronger drive and erections, focus on sleep, exercise, weight and stress first. Read how to increase sex drive in men naturally. A naturopath can recommend safer, better-supported natural remedies for your situation.
Why men choose our natural approach
Walk in or consult remotely
Walk in at Buccleuch, Sandton, with parking available, or consult by phone or video from anywhere in South Africa.
Natural and non-surgical
Herbal remedies and practical guidance, with no injections or surgery.
Faster appointments
Enquiries answered 24/7, with same-day appointments often available.
Transparent pricing
Consultations are R2,500, with any remedy costs confirmed before you commit.
Private self-check: 5 quick questions
Answer these honestly before you try anything new or book. They help you describe what is happening and get more from your first consultation.
- Has your interest in sex dropped noticeably over the past year?
- Do you feel tired most days, even after a full night in bed?
- Has your weight around the middle increased?
- Have stress, low mood or poor sleep become more common?
- Have you noticed weaker erections or fewer morning erections?
Two or more yes answers suggest that energy, sleep, stress or weight may be affecting your drive. These are areas where natural, practical support often makes a real difference, and a naturopath can help you work out where to start.
What happens at your first consultation
- Walk in or book online, call +27 10 205 9855 or WhatsApp +27 81 823 1313. In Gauteng, walk in at 199 Vanessa Street, Buccleuch, Sandton, where parking is available. Outside Gauteng, choose a confidential phone or video consultation. Enquiries are answered 24/7.
- Talk privately with a naturopath about your symptoms, health history, lifestyle and goals.
- Receive a personalised natural plan, with any remedy costs confirmed upfront.
- Follow up in person or remotely so your progress is reviewed and your plan adjusted.
Your health and safety
Our naturopaths use natural remedies and lifestyle support, and always check your health history and current medicines first. If anything needs medical attention we tell you honestly and refer you to an appropriately registered medical professional. Avoid unregistered “enhancement” products sold online or at markets, as SAHPRA has warned that some contain hidden ingredients.
Seek urgent medical care for chest pain, an erection lasting more than four hours, sudden weakness or other sudden symptoms.
Consultation price
A consultation is R2,500, in person or remote, and your naturopath confirms any further costs before you go ahead. See our mens clinic prices for details.
Frequently asked questions
What are the benefits of cloves for men sexually?
Cloves are traditionally used as an aphrodisiac and are rich in antioxidants, but there are no good human studies showing they improve libido or erections.
How many cloves should a man take a day?
Using a few cloves in food or tea is safe. Avoid concentrated extracts and clove oil by mouth.
Does clove increase testosterone?
There is no evidence that cloves raise testosterone in men, and some animal studies suggest high doses may have the opposite effect.
Is clove water good for men?
Clove tea is a safe, antioxidant-rich drink in normal amounts, but it is not a sexual treatment.
How much does a consultation cost?
A consultation is R2,500, and any remedy costs are confirmed with you before you go ahead.
Book your consultation today
Get personalised, natural support from a naturopath. Walk in at our Sandton practice, or book a remote consultation if you live outside Gauteng.
References and further reading
- NCCIH: Using dietary supplements wisely
- FDA: Tainted sexual enhancement products
- SAHPRA: South African Health Products Regulatory Authority
Reviewed by George Mulaudzi, Naturopath. This page is general information and does not replace a personal consultation. If you have chest pain, sudden symptoms or a medical emergency, seek urgent medical care.
