Clove water is a simple, soothing herbal infusion that’s been used for generations in traditional kitchens. If you’re looking for an easy clove water recipe you can make at home, this guide has you covered whether you want to steep it hot or prepare a gentle cold version. Known in some places as “laung soaked water,” this drink is beloved for its warmth, its subtle spice, and the way it can support your well-being in everyday life.
In this article, I’ll walk you through both ways to make this infusion. Then, I’ll show you seven practical ways you can use it, from calming digestion to giving your hair a natural rinse. I’ll also cover how it works, how to store it safely, and how much is smart to drink. By the end, you’ll feel totally confident adding this time-tested tonic to your family’s routine.
Table of Contents
Clove Water vs. Clove Tea: What’s the Difference?
Many people mix up these two, and it’s easy to see why. They both use the same spice, and both have a cozy, comforting smell. Still, the way you make them and the way they taste can be a little different.
Clove Tea (Warm Simmer Method)
This is the hot version. Whole cloves are warmed in water on the stove until the flavor becomes bold and spicy. The heat draws out more of the natural oils inside the cloves, so the drink has a stronger taste and aroma. It’s a great choice when you want something warm and soothing, especially in cooler weather.
Clove Water (Hot or Cold Method)
Clove water can start the same way as clove tea when made hot. But the name also refers to a second method: a cold, slow soak in the fridge. This chilled version is much milder. It’s light enough to sip through the day and works well for anyone who prefers a gentle flavor.
Bottom Line
Both drinks are helpful in their own way. This guide shows you how to make each one so you can pick the style that fits your day or your taste.
Clove Water Recipe
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This simple clove water recipe shows you how to make a warm brew or a cold overnight infusion using whole cloves and water. It has a gentle flavor and can be enjoyed for digestion, hydration, hair rinses, and everyday comfort.
Ingredients
- 4–5 whole cloves
- 1 liter (4 cups) filtered water
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 lemon slice
- 1 teaspoon honey
Instructions
- Warm Simmer Method
Pour 2 cups of water into a small saucepan.
Add 1 teaspoon of whole cloves.
Bring the water to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10 minutes.
Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Strain and enjoy warm, or chill for later.
- Cold Overnight Method
Place 4 to 5 whole cloves in a clean jar or pitcher.
Add 1 liter (4 cups) of filtered water.
Cover and refrigerate for 8 to 12 hours.
Strain and drink chilled.
Notes
- Best consumed within 2 days.
- Flavor intensifies slightly overnight.
- Start with small servings if you’re new to clove water, especially if pregnant or on medication.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Simmer
- Cuisine: Herbal
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 1 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 10 mg
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 mg
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 0 g
What You’ll Need (Ingredients & Tools)
To make clove water recipe at home, you only need a few simple ingredients. Most of these are pantry staples, and you can adjust them to match your taste.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 4 to 5 whole cloves
- 1 liter (4 cups) filtered water
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 cinnamon stick for a cozy, sweet aroma
- 1 lemon slice for a bright, fresh note
- 1 teaspoon honey for gentle sweetness once the drink has cooled
Tools
- A small saucepan if you plan to prepare the warm version
- A glass jar or pitcher with a lid if you prefer the cold soak
- A fine mesh strainer to remove the cloves before serving
This setup keeps the recipe simple and family friendly. Once the ingredients are gathered, you can choose the method that fits your routine, whether you want a quick warm drink or a chilled infusion ready for the next day.
How to Make Clove Water: 2 Simple Methods
You can prepare clove water recipe in two easy ways. The first is a warm simmer that creates a stronger drink. The second is a cold overnight soak that gives you a mild, refreshing infusion. Both versions start with whole cloves and clean water, so the work stays simple and stress free.
Method 1: The Warm Simmer (Clove Tea Method)
This method gives you a cozy drink with a deeper flavor. It’s ready in minutes and works well when you want something warm and soothing.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon whole cloves
- 2 cups water
Steps
- Warm the water
Pour the water into a small saucepan and set it over medium heat. - Add the cloves
Once the water begins to heat, sprinkle in the whole cloves. - Simmer gently for 10 minutes
Keep the heat low and let the cloves slowly release their aroma. The water will turn a soft golden color. This shows the cloves are infusing properly.(If you love warm, soothing drinks, you might also enjoy our Simple Ginger Tea Recipe). - Cool slightly
Remove the pot from the stove and let the drink cool for a moment. This helps the flavor settle and keeps it comfortable to sip. - Strain and serve
Pour the liquid through a fine mesh strainer. Enjoy it warm or chill it for later.
Tip: If the flavor feels too strong, add a little extra hot water to soften the taste.
Method 2: The Overnight Cold Steep (Clove Infusion Method)
This gentle method is great when you want something mild that you can sip all day. The slow chill brings out a soft spice without overpowering the water.
Ingredients
- 4 to 5 whole cloves
- 1 liter (4 cups) filtered water
Steps
- Combine cloves and water
Place the whole cloves into a clean glass jar or pitcher. Pour the filtered water over them. - Cover and refrigerate
Close the jar and place it in the fridge. Let it rest for 8 to 12 hours. This long soak allows the cloves to flavor the water without heat. - Strain and enjoy
The next day, strain out the cloves. The drink will be light, smooth and easy to sip throughout the day.
Tip: If you prefer a slightly stronger taste, let it sit for a few extra hours before straining.
The Main Active Compound: Why Clove Water Works
When you prepare a clove water recipe, you are pulling valuable natural compounds from the spice into the water. The most important one is a compound called eugenol. This is the reason cloves have been used for wellness across many cultures for centuries.
What Is Eugenol?
Eugenol is the primary oil found inside each clove bud. According to the National Institutes of Health, eugenol is a phenolic compound that is studied for its strong antioxidant and antiseptic properties. When you learn how to make this infusion, either hot or cold, you help release small amounts of this oil into your drink.
Why It Matters
Eugenol has been studied for its calming effect on the stomach and for its natural ability to fight certain bacteria. This is why clove water supports digestion, freshens breath and is sometimes used as part of simple home care routines.
The warm simmer method releases more eugenol and creates a stronger drink. The cold infusion, on the other hand, pulls out a lighter amount and gives you a gentle drink you can sip all day. Both styles work, and you can choose the one that fits your taste and needs.
Eugenol is also why clove water is sometimes used for oral care, minor skin support, and even hair rinses. The compound has natural cleansing qualities that help make this simple drink a helpful addition to your daily routine.
7 Practical Uses for Clove Water
Once you learn how to make clove water recipe, you can use it in many simple ways throughout your day. Families have relied on this gentle drink for generations, and each use is easy to fit into a normal routine.
1. A Comforting Digestive Drink
Clove water is often sipped after meals to support easy digestion. Its natural compounds can help calm gas and gentle bloating. Many people enjoy a small cup of the warm version when their stomach feels heavy.
2. For Oral Health and Fresh Breath
The natural oils in cloves have cleansing qualities. Some families use cooled this infusion as a simple mouth rinse to freshen breath. Swish for a few seconds, then spit it out. It adds a clean, warm taste that feels refreshing.
3. For Hair and Scalp Care
This is one of the most searched uses for any clove water recipe. The warm version, once cooled, can be used as a scalp rinse. The light spice helps calm the skin and may support better circulation.
Mini How To
- Shampoo your hair as usual.
- Pour cooled this infusion slowly over your scalp.
- Let it sit for about five minutes.
- Rinse with clean water.
Many people enjoy the fresh scent it leaves behind.
4. For Simple Skin Care
Cooled clove water can be used as a light facial toner. Its natural cleansing qualities help keep the skin fresh. Add a little to a cotton pad and glide it across clean skin. This is a gentle option for those who prefer natural routines.
5. For Weight Support
Clove water is often included in everyday wellness habits. Because it has a warm taste with no calories, it works well as a hydrating drink when you want a flavorful option. Some people use it as part of balanced eating routines to support a healthy metabolism.
6. For Cooking and Baking
This is a fun way to use clove water recipe at home. The light spice adds character to everyday dishes.
Here are a few kitchen ideas:
- Poaching Fruit: Use clove water when poaching pears or apples for a warm, sweet aroma.
- Cooking Grains: Replace plain water with this infusion when cooking rice to add a gentle flavor.
- Marinade Base: Mix the liquid with herbs, citrus and a little oil to create a tasty marinade for meats or tofu.
These small changes add a comforting, home-style touch to your meals.
7. As a Natural Home Freshener
When you simmer cloves in water, the steam carries a warm scent through your kitchen. Many families love this during cooler months because it creates a welcoming atmosphere. It is a simple, natural way to refresh a room.
Safety, Storage, and Potential Side Effects
Once you learn how to make clove water recipe, it helps to know how to store it safely and how much to drink. Cloves are strong, so a little goes a long way. These tips keep the drink gentle and family friendly.
Storage
Place your finished this infusion in a clean glass jar or pitcher with a lid. Keep it in the fridge and use it within two to four days. The flavor stays pleasant during this window, and the drink remains fresh.
How Much to Drink
Start with a small amount, such as half a cup, to see how your body responds. Many people enjoy one to two cups per day, depending on whether they choose the warm brew or the light cold infusion. Listen to your body and adjust as needed.
Possible Side Effects and Who Should Be Careful
the liquid is usually well tolerated, but some people should take extra care.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should avoid large amounts.
- Anyone taking blood thinning medication should speak with a doctor first because cloves contain eugenol.
- If you have ongoing medical concerns or take daily medication, ask a healthcare provider before adding strong herbal drinks to your routine.
- Do not drink very concentrated this infusion in large amounts, as the flavor and natural oils may be too strong for some people.
These simple steps help keep your clove water recipe safe and enjoyable for everyday use.
FAQs
These quick answers can help you feel more confident when preparing your clove water recipe at home or adding it to your daily routine.
How do I make clove water?
You can make clove water by simmering whole cloves in water for about ten minutes or by soaking them in cold water overnight. Both methods are simple, and both give you a mild, warm flavor. The warm brew is stronger, while the cold infusion is light enough to sip through the day.
What happens if I drink clove water daily?
Many people enjoy a small amount each day as part of their routine. Daily use may support digestion and freshen breath. Start with a small cup to see how your body reacts. Listen to your body and adjust if needed.
Who should not drink clove water?
Anyone who is pregnant, breastfeeding or taking blood thinning medication should be careful. If you have medical concerns, talk to a healthcare provider before adding strong herbal drinks to your diet.
What are the serious side effects of cloves?
Large amounts of cloves or highly concentrated clove oil may cause stomach upset or irritation. Clove water made with normal kitchen amounts is much gentler, but you should still drink it in moderation.
What does clove water do to a woman’s body?
Women often use clove water for digestion, hydration and oral care. Some also use it as a scalp rinse during their hair routine. The drink should always be used in reasonable amounts and not as a replacement for medical care.
Can clove water reduce belly fat?
Clove water alone does not burn belly fat. Some people include it during balanced eating habits because it has no calories and offers a warm flavor that makes hydration easier. Think of it as a supportive drink, not a quick fix.
A Simple, Versatile Drink for Your Routine
Clove water is easy to prepare, practical for families and gentle enough for everyday use. Once you know how to make clove water, you can choose the warm brew for a cozy drink or the cold infusion for simple all-day hydration. Both styles fit well into a home kitchen and feel comforting during busy days.
You can enjoy it as a digestive drink, use it in cooking, or include it in your hair and skin routine. With a short ingredient list and a mild flavor, this clove water recipe becomes a helpful staple you can return to again and again.
If you ever want to adjust the flavor or try new add-ins like lemon or cinnamon, feel free to make it your own. Small changes can make it even more enjoyable for your family.