Complications From Using Clove Oil

People commonly use clove as a food additive to add flavor and fragrance, and for its antiseptic qualities. Many also use it to treat--amongst other things--dental pain, fever, premature ejaculation, coughs, asthma and hernias, according to the Healthline website. Clinical scientific studies on the medical properties of clove and its derivatives, however, are extremely limited, and there are a number of complications that may arise from consuming--or otherwise using--clove or clove oil.

Allergies

• Those allergic to clove oil may experience extreme rashes inside the mouth when they take it orally, according to Creighton University Medical Center. The same symptoms may occur when it is applied to the skin, along with itching and a shortness of breath. In addition, hives may occur on the skin after consuming clove oil in the form of clove cigarettes. People allergic to balsam of Peru should take particular care as they may also be allergic to clove oil, as well.

Interactions

• Laboratory research indicates that clove oil may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with aspirin, ibuprofen, anticoagulants and other drugs that in themselves increase the risk of bleeding.

  In addition, clove oil--when taken orally--may result in a drop in blood sugar levels. Consequently, exercise caution as well as advising your doctor or health-care physician when taking other drugs that lower blood sugar levels, such as those for diabetes.

  Clove oil may also--when combined with other pain-reducing drugs and applied to the skin--produce exaggerated effects.

  Clove oil may also interfere with liver function when breaking down other drugs and medicinal herbs, as well as interacting negatively with anti-fungals, antihistamines and other drugs for cardiovascular conditions.

Side Effects

• Clove oil taken orally and in large doses may cause a number of side effects--including vomiting, sore throat, seizure, sedation, difficulty breathing, fluid in the lungs, vomiting of blood, blood disorders, kidney failure, and liver damage or failure, according to MedlinePlus.

  In addition, anyone with kidney or liver disorders should avoid using cloves or clove oil. Most serious side effects occur in young children so they should avoid clove oil, even in small amounts, as should pregnant women.

  Clove oil may also increase bleeding so it is especially important to avoid clove oil if you suffer from any kind of bleeding disorder.

  Even for those who are not allergic to cloves, clove oil may cause pain, a burning sensation, numbness, or even burns when applied to the skin. When taken orally there is an increased risk of dental pulp damage, dental cavities and sore lips.

  Clove oil may become contaminated if stored improperly and cause further complications.