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- UPC: 733739074904
- # N7490
NOW Foods Clove Essential Oil (2 fl oz / 59 mL) – 100% Pure Eugenia Caryophyllus
NOW Clove Essential Oil provides a rich, concentrated botanical extract steam-distilled directly from the dried flower buds, leaves, and stems of Eugenia caryophyllus (also classified as Syzygium aromaticum). Renowned for its warm, pungent, and deeply comforting aroma, pure clove oil has been an essential pillar of traditional herbal traditions and modern aromatherapy for centuries. Whether diffused to create an inviting, purified home atmosphere, blended into seasonal diffuser recipes, or diluted into custom topical massage oils, this pure essential oil delivers unadulterated botanical potency without synthetic fragrances, synthetic solvents, or hidden carrier oils.
Because unrefined clove oil naturally contains elevated concentrations of the phenolic constituent eugenol, it delivers robust functional utility alongside its distinctive spicy scent. Every bottle of NOW Clove Oil is analytically verified using industry-leading quality control measures to guarantee that what is printed on the label matches precisely what is sealed inside the amber glass bottle.
- Botanical Integrity: 100% pure Eugenia caryophyllus steam-distilled from clove buds, leaves, and stems.
- Aromatic Signature: Warm, pungent, spicy, and soothing.
- Verified Authenticity: Analytically fingerprinted via Gas Chromatography (GC-MS) to verify purity and exclude synthetic adulterants.
- Clean Standards: Non-GMO Project Verified, Certified Vegan, Halal, and packaged in the USA under cGMP compliance.
- Quality Assurances: ✓ 100% Pure Botanical ✓ No Petrochemical Additives ✓ Hexane-Free ✓ Lot-Tracked Testing.
Mechanism of Action: The Botanical Chemistry of Eugenol
The distinct physiological and aromatic properties of clove essential oil stem directly from its dominant phytochemical constituent: eugenol (4-allyl-2-methoxyphenol). In premium steam-distilled clove oil, eugenol typically accounts for 70% to 90% of the total volatile oil composition, supported synergistically by secondary terpenes including beta-caryophyllene (5%–14%) and eugenyl acetate (4%–15%) (Chaieb et al., 2007).
1. Cellular Membrane Disruption & Cleansing Action
At a molecular level, eugenol acts as a hydrophobic phenolic molecule that can permeate and destabilize outer bacterial and fungal lipid membranes. By increasing membrane permeability, eugenol causes intracellular ions and vital cytoplasmic proteins to leak, directly disrupting microbial proton pumps and cellular respiration. In vitro microbiological investigations have confirmed that clove oil exhibits robust bactericidal action against common environmental and oral pathogens, including Streptococcus mutans and Porphyromonas gingivalis (Moon et al., 2011).
2. Neuro-Sensory Comfort & COX-2 Pathway Modulation
When diluted properly in a carrier oil and applied topically, clove essential oil produces a familiar localized warming sensation followed by soothing numbness. Eugenol exerts this effect through dual pathways: first, by selectively inhibiting cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme expression and suppressing inflammatory prostaglandin synthesis; second, by reversibly dampening voltage-gated sodium channels along sensory nerve endings, which temporarily tempers localized pain signaling (Kamatou et al., 2012).
3. High-Capacity Free-Radical Scavenging
Eugenol possesses an allylic phenolic hydroxyl group capable of donating hydrogen atoms to neutralize aggressive reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxides. This substantial antioxidant potential protects the volatile aromatic fractions within the oil from rapid atmospheric oxidation and aids in refreshing ambient indoor air when diffused (Chaieb et al., 2007).
Scientific Citations:
✓ Chaieb, K., et al. (2007). The chemical composition and biological activity of clove essential oil, Eugenia caryophyllata. Phytotherapy Research, 21(6), 501–506. [PMID: 17380552]
✓ Kamatou, G. P., et al. (2012). Eugenol—from the remote Maluku Islands to the international marketplace: A review of a remarkable and versatile molecule. Molecules, 17(6), 6953–6981. [PMID: 22728369]
✓ Moon, S. E., et al. (2011). Synergistic effect based on the bactericidal activity of clove oil against oral bacteria. Archives of Oral Biology, 56(7), 670–674. [PMID: 21315328]
Product Specifications & Analytical Properties
Authentic essential oils possess exact physical characteristics governed by their botanical taxonomy and processing methods. Below are the verified product specifications and manufacturer parameters for NOW Clove Essential Oil (2 fl oz / 59 mL):
| Parameter | Specification / Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | NOW Foods Clove Essential Oil |
| Retail Item Code / SKU | N7490 (NOW SKU 7490) |
| UPC Barcode | 733739074904 |
| Net Volume | 2 fl. oz. / 59 mL |
| Botanical Name | Eugenia caryophyllus (Synonym: Syzygium aromaticum) |
| Ingredients | 100% Pure Clove Oil (steam-distilled clove buds, leaves, and stems) |
| Extraction Method | Pure Steam Distillation |
| Physical Appearance | Clear, amber-tinted viscous liquid |
| Refractive Index (at 20°C) | 1.527 – 1.535 |
| Specific Gravity (at 20°C) | 1.038 – 1.060 |
| Primary Constituents | Eugenol, Eugenyl Acetate, Beta-Caryophyllene |
| Certifications & Seals | Non-GMO Project Verified, Vegan, Halal Certified, Cruelty-Free |
Storage Guidelines: Store upright in its original amber glass bottle at room temperature (59°–77°F / 15°–25°C). Avoid direct exposure to sunlight, open flames, and high-humidity areas such as bathroom medicine cabinets to prevent volatile terpene degradation.
Analytical Purity Standards & Contaminant Screening Protocols
Because essential oils exist in an unregulated marketplace where dilution with cheap synthetic carriers or petrochemical solvents is common, NOW Foods implements one of the most rigorous in-house analytical testing regimes in the natural products industry. Every incoming batch of clove oil must pass an exhaustive battery of physicochemical and molecular testing within ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratory facilities before bottling:
✓ Gas Chromatography / Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) Fingerprinting
Each lot is vaporized and analyzed via GC/MS to separate and identify every chemical constituent. The resulting chromatogram is compared against reference mass-spectral libraries to confirm authentic botanical markers and verify that no petroleum-derived synthetic eugenol, synthetic fragrance boosters, or carrier oils (such as mineral oil or dipropylene glycol) have been added.
✓ Ultra-Trace Heavy Metal Detection (ICP-MS)
Samples are digested using high-purity acid and ionized in high-temperature argon plasma via Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). This instrument detects and quantifies toxic heavy metals—including lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury—down to trace parts-per-billion (ppb) levels, far exceeding standard USP and California Proposition 65 safety thresholds.
✓ Dual-Platform Pesticide Residue Analysis
Agricultural clove materials are screened across two advanced analytical platforms: Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and Gas Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS/MS). This dual-screen evaluates hundreds of agricultural pesticide, fungicide, and herbicide residues to verify that the raw material is pure and uncompromised.
✓ Physical Constants & Olfactory Evaluation
Technical purity is verified through optical refractometry (Refractive Index: 1.527–1.535) and pycnometry (Specific Gravity: 1.038–1.060). Trained essential oil chemists conduct organoleptic reviews, confirming that the oil demonstrates the exact amber tint, characteristic viscosity, and warm, spicy aromatic profile authentic to Eugenia caryophyllus.
Lot-Tracked Certificate of Analysis (COA): VitaNet customers can verify the testing results for their exact bottle. Every NOW product includes an assigned lot number on the bottom of the container, allowing you to access the verified laboratory Certificate of Analysis documenting purity and botanical authenticity.
Safe Application Methods, Dilution Ratios & Critical Precautions
Because pure clove oil is classified botanically as a "hot" oil due to its high eugenol content, responsible handling is essential. It must be respected as an active, concentrated botanical agent rather than a simple cosmetic fragrance.
Aromatherapy & Ambient Diffusion
For ultrasonic diffusers, add 2 to 3 drops of clove oil into fresh water. Due to its potent aromatic strength, small amounts disperse effectively. Diffuse in well-ventilated living areas for 30- to 60-minute intervals.
- Seasonal Warmth Diffuser Blend: 2 drops NOW Clove Oil + 2 drops NOW Lemon Oil + 3 drops NOW Sweet Orange Oil.
- Air-Purifying Herbal Blend: 2 drops NOW Clove Oil + 2 drops NOW Eucalyptus Oil + 2 drops NOW Rosemary Oil.
Topical Application & Dermal Dilution Limits
NEVER apply undiluted clove oil directly to bare skin. Eugenol is a known dermal irritant and contact sensitizer when applied "neat" (undiluted). According to established clinical aromatherapy toxicology guidelines (Tisserand & Young, 2014) and International Fragrance Association (IFRA) standards, the recommended maximum dermal limit for clove bud and leaf oil is 0.5%.
- 0.5% Safe Dilution Guideline: Add no more than 1 single drop of clove essential oil per 2 teaspoons (10 mL) of pure carrier oil (such as organic jojoba, sweet almond, olive, or fractionated coconut oil).
- Patch Testing: Apply a dime-sized amount of the diluted mixture to the inner forearm. Wait 24 hours. If erythema, itching, or redness occurs, wash immediately with soap and water and discontinue use.
Critical Health Contraindications & Safety Warnings
- Not For Internal Use: Concentrated essential oils must never be swallowed, ingested in capsules, or mixed into drinking water. Ingesting concentrated eugenol presents serious risks of mucous membrane burning, gastrointestinal damage, and hepatotoxicity (liver strain).
- Anticoagulant & Bleeding Considerations: Eugenol exhibits documented antiplatelet properties and can inhibit blood clotting. Individuals taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications (such as Warfarin, Eliquis, Plavix, or Aspirin), those with hemophilia, or patients scheduled for surgery within 14 days should avoid topical clove oil preparations.
- Pregnancy & Nursing: Pregnant and nursing mothers should consult an OB-GYN or licensed clinical healthcare professional prior to using clove oil in any form.
- Infant & Child Warning: Keep strictly out of reach of children. Do not apply topically to infants, toddlers, or young children, as their delicate epidermal barrier and respiratory pathways are highly vulnerable to irritation and bronchospasm from strong phenolic vapors.
- Pet Toxicity: Phenolic compounds such as eugenol are poorly metabolized by household pets, particularly cats and dogs, due to lower levels of liver glucuronidation enzymes. Diffuse only in open, well-ventilated areas where pets can freely leave the room, and never apply essential oils to animal skin or fur.
Safety Citation: Tisserand, R., & Young, R. (2014). Essential Oil Safety: A Guide for Health Care Professionals (2nd ed.). Edinburgh: Churchill Livingstone / Elsevier.
Why Buy Your Clove Essential Oil from VitaNet®, LLC?
Purchasing pure botanical supplements online requires trust in product freshness, genuine authenticity, and consumer accountability. Founded as an independent, family-owned business in Hartville, Ohio, VitaNet®, LLC has served wellness-conscious customers online since 1995[cite: 1]. With more than 31 years of direct operational experience and an in-depth understanding of natural biochemistry, we ensure you receive genuine, premium-grade health products[cite: 1].
- Unconditional 100% Money-Back Guarantee: We stand behind the quality of every product we sell[cite: 1]. If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, VitaNet provides a complete 100% refund—and we even pay the return shipping costs, even on opened bottles[cite: 1].
- Factory-Fresh, Direct Sourcing: We do not rely on unverified third-party marketplace sellers or liquidators. Our inventory is sourced directly through established brand networks, guaranteeing lot-tracked, unexpired, and climate-controlled inventory.
- BBB A+ Accredited Business: For over three decades, our independent retailer heritage has maintained an unblemished A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau[cite: 1].
- Extensive Curated Selection: Access our verified catalog of over 16,000 name-brand vitamins, herbs, essential oils, and sports nutrition formulas at everyday discount pricing[cite: 1].
When you shop with VitaNet®, you support an authentic family-owned business dedicated to transparent wellness, rapid dispatch, and dedicated telephone and email customer service[cite: 1].
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I apply NOW Clove Essential Oil directly to my tooth or gums for a toothache?
No, you should never apply pure, undiluted clove essential oil directly from the bottle to your gums, tongue, or oral tissues. Pure clove oil contains 70% to 90% eugenol, which can cause severe mucosal burns, chemical irritation, and tissue sloughing when applied undiluted. While eugenol is widely used in dental clinics (such as in zinc oxide-eugenol temporary cements), dental formulations use carefully buffered, micro-measured compounds. For oral discomfort, consult a licensed dentist immediately to address the root cause of infection, and avoid placing concentrated essential oils directly inside the mouth.
Can I ingest NOW Clove Essential Oil in water or gel capsules?
No. NOW Clove Essential Oil is labeled strictly for aromatherapy and topical use (when properly diluted). Essential oils do not dissolve in water; drinking a drop of clove oil in water causes microscopic oil droplets to float directly onto the lining of the mouth, esophagus, and stomach, risking chemical irritation and tissue burning. Furthermore, high doses of internal eugenol are processed by the liver and can result in hepatic strain. Internal use of essential oils should only be conducted under the direct supervision of a licensed physician or clinical toxicologist.
What is the correct way to dilute clove oil for skin use?
To comply with international dermal safety standards (IFRA and Tisserand & Young), clove essential oil must be diluted to a maximum concentration of 0.5%. In practical household terms, this means mixing a maximum of 1 single drop of clove oil into 2 full teaspoons (10 mL) of a carrier oil such as pure jojoba, almond, or fractionated coconut oil. Always test a small dab of this mixture on your inner arm for 24 hours prior to broader application.
How does NOW Foods ensure this oil is not adulterated with synthetic eugenol?
NOW Foods tests every batch in ISO/IEC 17025-accredited analytical laboratories using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS). Because natural clove oil contains a distinct botanical profile of secondary compounds (such as beta-caryophyllene, alpha-humulene, and eugenyl acetate) alongside eugenol, synthetic alternatives derived from petrochemical precursors cannot replicate this natural molecular fingerprint. Any batch containing artificial fillers or lacking authentic botanical constituents is rejected.
Is it safe to diffuse clove essential oil around dogs and cats?
Caution is required. Pets—especially cats and small dogs—have low levels of specific liver enzymes (glucuronyl transferase) needed to metabolize phenolic compounds like eugenol. If you choose to diffuse clove oil in a home with pets, do so only in a large, well-ventilated room, run the diffuser for short periods (no more than 30 minutes), and ensure doors remain open so pets can voluntarily leave the room. Never apply clove oil to animal fur, skin, or bedding.
What is the difference between Clove Bud Oil and Clove Leaf or Stem Oil?
Clove bud oil is distilled exclusively from the dried flower buds and tends to have a slightly sweeter, rounder scent with higher levels of eugenyl acetate. Clove leaf and stem oils are distilled from the foliage and branches, yielding a sharper, more pungent aroma with a very high eugenol content. NOW Clove Essential Oil uses steam distillation from buds, leaves, and stems to capture the full botanical spectrum of Eugenia caryophyllus, offering high potency and versatile value for household and aromatherapy diffusion.
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