Why Are People Putting Cloves Under Their Pillow at Night? Benefits, Beliefs & Truth

          “Cloves under the pillow — a traditional nighttime practice.”

Have you ever heard elders say to keep cloves under your pillow while sleeping?

What sounds like a strange superstition is now gaining attention again—on social media, wellness blogs, and traditional homes across India.

👉But why cloves?

👉Is it just belief, or is there some real reason behind it?

Let’s explore the spiritual, traditional, and scientific reasons behind this age-old practice.

🌿 What Are Cloves?

Cloves are dried flower buds of the clove tree and are widely used in:

👉Indian cooking

👉Ayurveda

👉Home remedies

👉Aromatherapy

They are rich in eugenol, a natural compound with antibacterial, antifungal, and calming properties.

🛏️ 1. Believed to Improve Sleep Quality

Many people believe that keeping cloves under the pillow:

👉Creates a calming aroma

👉Helps reduce stress and anxiety

👉Promotes deep, peaceful sleep

👉The natural fragrance may subtly relax the nervous system.

🧠 2. Traditional Remedy for Stress & Negative Thoughts

In Indian households, cloves are believed to:

👉Absorb negative energy

👉Calm racing thoughts

👉Reduce nightmares

This belief comes from ancient practices where natural herbs were used for mental balance.

😴 3. May Help With Headaches & Sinus Issues

Clove aroma is known to:

👉Clear nasal congestion

👉Reduce sinus pressure

👉Ease mild headaches

People suffering from blocked nose or cold often report better breathing at night.

🦷 4. Known for Pain-Relieving Properties

Clove oil is commonly used for tooth pain.

Some believe that inhaling clove aroma during sleep may:

👉Reduce mild body discomfort

👉Relax facial and jaw muscles

🔬 5. Scientific Angle – Does It Really Work?

Science says:

👉Cloves contain eugenol, which has calming and anti-inflammatory properties

👉Aromatherapy can influence mood and sleep quality

However: ⚠️ There is no direct scientific proof that cloves under a pillow cure problems

But the aroma effect is real

⚠️ Is It Safe?

Yes, but follow these tips:

👉Use 2–3 whole cloves

👉Wrap them in a small cloth

👉Do not place directly near the nose

👉Avoid if you are allergic to strong smells

🌙 How to Use Cloves Under Pillow (Right Way)

👉Take 2–3 cloves

👉Wrap in a thin cotton cloth

👉Place under or near the pillow

👉Replace every 5–7 days

🧘 Final Verdict

Putting cloves under your pillow is:

🌿 A safe traditional practice

🧠 Helpful for relaxation

😴 May improve sleep experience

It’s not magic—but sometimes simple natural habits bring calmness.

❓ FAQs

1. Can children use cloves under pillow?

Yes, but use only 1 clove and keep it slightly away.

2. Can I use clove oil instead?

No, oil is too strong. Whole cloves are better.