December 16, 2025
The main toxic component of oil of cloves is eugenol. With the holiday season upon us, cloves are frequently featured in desserts. In food amounts, cloves in the form of a spice are not toxic. Oil of cloves has been used in dentistry for tooth pain and dry socket. However, with essential oils, which are highly concentrated products, there is more concern for toxicity. Essential oils have been used as part of medicinal and aromatherapy applications.
Oil of cloves is composed of about 60 to 90 percent eugenol. Eugenol has both potassium channel-blocking properties and inhibits sodium channels. The inhibition of sodium channels may be responsible for its anesthetic effects. Eugenol can prevent the synthesis of prostaglandins as part of its mechanism in reducing dental inflammation.(1) In rat studies, eugenol can diminish glutathione resulting in hepatocyte toxicity.(1)
In human infants and small children, oil of clove exposures have resulted in significant toxicity with as little as 5-10 ml.(2, 3) CNS depression, seizures, hepatotoxicity and metabolic acidosis have been subsequent sequelae of ingestion.(2, 3) Coagulation defects and hypoglycemia have also been reported.(2) Its use especially for teething has not been recommended for infants or toddlers under the age of 2 years.(4)
Treatment involves supportive care and n-acetylcysteine is suggested for hepatotoxicity given mechanism. Benzodiazepines have been used to treat seizures.(2) For any essential oil poisoning, we recommend contacting the Tennessee Poison Center or your local poison center at (800) 222-1222 for guidance and management. Lastly, like all potentially toxic agents, we recommend keeping essential oils up and secured away from small children and pets.
Rebecca Bruccoleri, MD, Medical Director, Tennessee Poison Center
References
- Nelson LS, Howland MA, Lewin NA, Smith SW, Goldfrank LR, Hoffman RS. Goldfrank's Toxicologic Emergencies. 11th ed. New York: McGraw-Hill Education; 2019 p. 629-630.
- Hartnoll G, Moore D, Douek D. Near fatal ingestion of oil of cloves. Arch Dis Child. 1993 Sep;69(3):392-3. doi: 10.1136/adc.69.3.392. PMID: 8215554; PMCID: PMC1029532.
- Lane BW, Ellenhorn MJ, Hulbert TV, McCarron M. Clove oil ingestion in an infant. Hum Exp Toxicol. 1991 Jul;10(4):291-4. doi: 10.1177/096032719101000410. PMID: 1679654.
- Clove Oil: medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.4817.pdf Accessed Dec. 15, 2025