The clove tree is a very aromatic evergreen tree from Indonesia, producing the well known clove bud spice. For centuries, the dried cloves have been chewed to release their essential oil, which has a strong numbing effect on a toothache. The essential oil from ripe cloves is too strong to use in aromatherapy, but the unripe buds of the flowers produce an oil that is gentle, fresh and spicy.
Clove bud essential oil can be mildly irritant or sensitizing. Dilute with a carrier oil before applying to the skin.