What is eugenol in essential oils?
Eugenol (ue gen’ ol) is the major constituent [70% to 90%] in the aromatic oil extract from cloves (Syzygium aromaticum), a spice widely used as a flavoring for meats, stews, cakes and teas. Eugenol is also found in lower concentrations in cinnamon and other aromatic spices. Oil of clove, also known as clove oil or eugenol, is an essential oil extracted from the clove plant, Syzygium aromaticum. Clove oil is commonly used in aromatherapy and for flavoring food, tea, and toothpaste. In alternative medicine, it may be used as a topical medication to relieve toothache.Eugenol is found in a variety of plants including clove buds, cinnamon bark and leaves, tulsi leaves, turmeric, pepper, ginger, oregano and thyme. In addition, several other aromatic herbs including basil, bay, marjoram, mace and nutmeg are also claimed to have significant quantity of eugenol.Numerous studies have reported that eugenol possesses antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects (4–6). Eugenol has been widely used in dentistry to treat toothache and pulpitis (7). A previous study indicated that eugenol may be an ideal natural agent for use in oral care products.Eugenol is the major compound of clove oil, comprising 83%–95% of the oil. It is slightly water-soluble and easily soluble in organic solvent, colorless or yellowish in color. The name is derived from the scientific name for clove, Eugenia aromaticum or Eugenia caryophyllid.
What is the medical use of eugenol?
Eugenol is a naturally occurring phenolic molecule found in several plants such as cinnamon, clove, and bay leaves. It has been used as a topical antiseptic as a counter-irritant and in dental preparations with zinc oxide for root canal sealing and pain control. Even small amounts of clove oil can cause severe side effects such as seizures, liver damage, and fluid imbalances. Bleeding disorders: Clove oil contains a chemical called eugenol that seems to slow blood clotting.Oil of clove, also known as clove oil or eugenol, is an essential oil extracted from the clove plant, Syzygium aromaticum. Clove oil is commonly used in aromatherapy and for flavoring food, tea, and toothpaste. In alternative medicine, it may be used as a topical medication to relieve toothache.Always dilute clove oil with a carrier oil and apply it only to the gums—not the tooth—and never swallow it. Swallowing clove oil can be toxic or even fatal, especially in large amounts or in children. Use with caution and seek medical care if pain persists.Clove oil works by numbing the affected area and reducing inflammation. Eugenol, the primary active ingredient, acts as a natural anesthetic and has antimicrobial properties that help eliminate harmful bacteria.Methyl cinnamate, eugenol, and menthol were the main essential oils in basil, clove, and peppermint, respectively.
What does eugenol smell like?
About. Eugenol is a naturally occurring ingredient found in several types of essential oils, such as clove, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Fragrance makers add it to create a spicy, clove-like scent. The smell of eugenol would probably remind you of autumn. Some people can be allergic. Health sites advise against using undiluted clove oil and caution that children are particularly sensitive. If you are pregnant, taking blood-thinning medication, or have liver conditions, speak to a clinician before use.The antiseptic found in cloves help fight against bacterial and fungal growth, according to Dr. Biplav Agrawal, Consultant Dermatologist and Immunologist. He recommends mixing 6 to 8 drops of clove oil with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil and applying it to your toenail fungus a few times a day.Clove oil is an effective insect repellent (Barnard, 1999). Dayan, Cantrell, and Duke (2009) report that clove oil is a rapid-acting insecticide that is effective on arthropod pests, armyworms, thrips, aphids, and mites. Clove oil is used in organic agriculture as an alternative to nonorganic farming methods.Side Effects of Clove Oil Eugenol at high doses can damage your liver or trigger allergic reactions in some people. So, it’s important to take clove oil only in safe doses and keep it out of reach of babies and children. Clove oil can be toxic when you take too much (typically 10-30 mL, or roughly 2-6 teaspoons).
What are the side effects of taking eugenol oil?
Even small amounts of clove oil can cause severe side effects such as seizures, liver damage, and fluid imbalances. Bleeding disorders: Clove oil contains a chemical called eugenol that seems to slow blood clotting. Taking clove oil might cause bleeding in people with bleeding disorders. According to Medline Plus, clove oil is generally considered safe for adults. However, they do note that when applied to the gums, clove oil can cause damage to the gums and tooth pulp. They do not recommend using clove oil on children or infants.Clove oil has been a long-standing remedy in the treatment of gingivitis due to its antibacterial and antiseptic properties. These properties make it a reliable ingredient to counter the effects of harmful mouth bacteria.Visit an oral healthcare provider when you have a toothache. Always dilute clove oil with a carrier oil and apply it only to the gums—not the tooth—and never swallow it. Swallowing clove oil can be toxic or even fatal, especially in large amounts or in children. Use with caution and seek medical care if pain persists.For this reason, clove oil is unsafe to take by mouth, especially for children. Even small amounts of clove oil can cause severe side effects such as seizures, liver damage, and fluid imbalances. It can also lead to bleeding in people with bleeding disorders or during surgery.If your pain is caused by a cavity, tooth decay, or an infection, clove oil will only mask the pain for a little while. The actual problem will still need professional treatment.