One drink can 'lower blood sugar and cleanse liver' if drank 30 minutes before bed

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A doctor has shed light on the unexpected health perks of drinking a particular beverage just 30 minutes before hitting the hay which can help lower blood sugar levels, cleanse the liver, and ease joint pain.

Dr Eric Berg DC, who boasts an impressive 12.8 million followers on YouTube has detailed the benefits of clove water, Surrey Live reports.

He explained: "You can use clove water for better sleep, oral health, heart health, immune health, and more. Cloves have potent antibacterial, antifungal, anti-candida, and antiviral properties with virtually no side effects."

Dr Berg continued to outline the positive impacts of this spiced concoction, stating: "Drinking clove water before bed can help you relax, detoxify the liver, and improve digestion.

"It can also be used for respiratory issues like bronchitis, mucus in the lungs, colds, coughs, and asthma. Clove water supports cognitive function, a healthy heart, and robust immune function. It's a natural sedative, so it can be used as a sleep aid without the side effects of sleep medication."

As a chiropractor with specialisation in healthy ketosis and intermittent fasting, Dr Berg also serves as the Director of Dr Berg Nutritionals. Author of the bestseller 'The Healthy Keto Plan', he is recognised as an expert in dietary health tactics.

What are cloves?

Cloves, often hailed for their ability to jazz up dishes, are brimming with health benefits as well. According to the Mirror, these spice rack staples are not only rich in antioxidants but could also help regulate blood sugar levels, combat bacterial infections, and provide a plethora of other health advantages.

Cloves have long been utilised in traditional medicine due to their aromatic sweetness and are now recognised for their potential to boost overall health.

How do I make clove water?

In terms of creating a nutritious beverage, Dr Berg has shared his method for making clove water: "To make clove water, boil four to five cloves in one cup of water, lower the heat, and allow it to simmer for five minutes.

"Cover the water while it's simmering to prevent the vapours from escaping. Allow the clove water to cool for one hour and consume it 30 minutes before bed."

How cloves can lower blood sugar

When it comes to the impact of cloves on blood sugar, research indicates that they contain compounds which may support liver health and aid in regulating blood sugar. The presence of insulin-like compounds in cloves suggests they could play a role in managing blood sugar levels.

Although this aspect of blood sugar control necessitates further detailed study, the results observed thus far are promising.

A 2019 study revealed that individuals, both with and without prediabetes, who consumed 250 milligrams of clove extract daily for a month experienced a significant decrease in post-meal blood glucose.

Other research showed that clove extract was more effective than a placebo in reducing blood sugar levels in healthy subjects, suggesting cloves' potential for those aiming to maintain balanced blood sugar levels.

However, the difference was only 3 milligrams per decilitre. In another randomised, double-blinded study, it was found that clove bud polyphenol extract lowered fasting blood sugar and post-meal blood glucose levels in healthy adults.

It's important to note that for those with diabetes, the eugenol in cloves can help reduce blood glucose to safe levels. But, excessive consumption of cloves could lead to hypoglycaemia, which can be dangerous.

Alongside a balanced diet, safely and moderately consuming cloves may help in maintaining your blood sugar levels. However, more research is needed to confirm this.

The NHS warns that consistently high blood sugar levels over long periods (over months or years) can cause permanent damage to parts of the body such as the eyes, nerves, kidneys and blood vessels. If you regularly experience hyperglycaemia, consult your doctor or diabetes care team.

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How cloves cleanse the liver and strengthen bones

A 2022 study on animals has shown that clove extract might help in mending liver damage caused by the harmful substance thioacetamide. The compound eugenol, found in cloves, could be particularly good for the liver's health.

However, it's important to note that there isn't enough human research to confirm cloves' benefits for liver health, and high amounts could even harm the liver. Research also indicates that eugenol may help increase bone mass.

Cloves provide manganese, which is crucial for bone formation and maintaining strong bones, but further studies are necessary to fully understand cloves' effects on human bone health.

What other benefits do cloves have?

Dr Berg noted: "Cloves can help numb tooth pain and eliminate microbes. They have been patented for use in mouthwash, toothpaste, and gingivitis treatment."

"Cloves can also increase bile flow and digestive enzymes. A study published in the World Journal of Dentistry found that clove oil worked faster, lasted longer, and was more effective for toothaches than benzocaine. Another study compared eugenol to hydrocortisone and found the effectiveness was equal to or greater in reducing skin swelling and redness.

"You can use cloves to make a salve or a liquid to drink before bed. It can be used for tooth pain, biofilms, muscle pain, joint pain, and more. Clove oil can be mixed with olive or coconut oil and massaged directly into the joints."

"You can also use clove oil to make a lip balm as a natural remedy for the herpes simplex virus. It can even be used as a mosquito repellent."

What to keep in mind

While clove water offers numerous health advantages and might match the efficacy of medication for certain individuals, it isn't a one stop cure-all. Keeping up a balanced diet and regular exercise routine are essential for optimal health.

Always consult your doctor before incorporating clove water into your regimen to confirm it’s appropriate for your circumstances, particularly if you’re taking other medicines or dealing with an existing health condition.

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