Why Cloves are a Cozy Winter Tea Spice!
Cloves are a deeply aromatic, warming spice that naturally shines in winter teas. Known for their rich, comforting flavor, they support digestion and provide soothing mouth and throat comfort when cold weather sets in. Cloves blend especially well with cinnamon, ginger, orange peel, and black tea for festive, holiday-style infusions. Why Cloves Shine in Winter ⢠Warming and comforting: Cloves have a strong warming, stimulating quality that feels especially supportive in cold, damp weather and pairs beautifully with other chai-style spices. ⢠Mouth and throat comfort: Traditionally used to soothe the mouth, gums, and throat, cloveâs natural compounds (like eugenol) create a mild numbing sensation that can feel comforting during winter throat irritation. ⢠Digestive support: Small amounts of clove are often used after meals to ease heaviness, gas, and sluggish digestion, making them ideal in post-holiday or evening teas. How to Use Cloves in Tea ⢠Whole buds: Use 2â4 whole cloves per 8â12 oz of water. They are potent, so a little goes a long way. ⢠Simmered decoction: For a stronger brew, gently simmer cloves for 10â15 minutes, often alongside cinnamon or ginger, then strain. ⢠In blends: Add whole or lightly crushed cloves to chai, mulled-tea blends, or winter herbal mixes. Light crushing releases more aroma but intensifies quickly. Simple Winter Clove Blends ⢠Cloveâcinnamonâorange peel: Cozy and aromatic, reminiscent of mulled cider; finish with honey for a dessert-like cup. ⢠Cloveâgingerâlemon: Bright, spicy, and deeply warming when youâre feeling chilled or run down. ⢠Cloveâblack teaâcardamom: A classic chai direction; simmer with milk or plant milk and a touch of sweetener. Safety + Use Notes ⢠Typical use: Cloves are best used in small, culinary-style amountsâjust a few buds per potârather than as a dominant herb. ⢠Strength caution: Because cloves are very potent, strong or frequent preparations are not recommended without professional guidance, especially concentrated forms like essential oil.