Cloves

Antioxidant-rich (eugenol), warm flavor.

A glass jar of whole cloves
Photo: Jaspreet Kalsi on Unsplash
Category
Herbs & Spices
Plate rating
85/100
Glycemic index
≈0 (no carbs)
Pesticide residue
Lower

What cloves offers

  • Antioxidant-rich (eugenol)
  • Warm flavor

When to eat it

In warm drinks or savory dishes.

Tip

Clove oil is a traditional toothache remedy — see a dentist for tooth pain

Blood sugar

Contains little or no carbohydrate, so it has almost no direct effect on blood sugar. GI values are approximate and vary with ripeness, variety and preparation. If you manage diabetes, ask your care team how this food fits your plan.

Pesticide residue & peeling

Relative residue level: Lower — a rough guide, not a lab measurement. Rinse produce under running water before eating.

More herbs & spices

Sources

Last reviewed October 2026. How we rate foods.

General information only, not medical advice. If you take medicine or manage a health condition, check with your doctor, pharmacist or a registered dietitian before changing your diet. Read our medical disclaimer.