Clove Oil Components

Clove oil is extracted from the dried flower buds of the Eugenia caryophyllata tree. Clove oil has a spicy, warm aroma. It should only be used topically, and in very small amounts with a carrier oil because it is very strong. The Essential Oils website reports clove oil aids in digestion, lifts depression, refreshes the mind, eases respiratory tightness and painful joints, and helps heal sores. The Greeks, Romans and Chinese used clove oil to relieve toothache.

Eugenol

According to the study on the "Cytotoxicity of Clove Oil" published in "Cell Proliferatation," eugenol makes up approximately 78% of the components of clove oil. Eugenol is used in perfumes, antiseptics, analgesics and flavorings. It is used extensively in the dental industry. Eugenol can be highly toxic if not used properly.

Eugenol Acetate

According to the peer-reviewed article "Chemical Composition and Content of Turkish Essential Clove Oil," eugenol acetate makes up approximately 8.01% of clove oil. Eugenol acetate is an FDA-approved food additive, and is considered safe for consumption. It is used to create impart the spicy scent of clove to foods and perfumes.

Beta-Caryophyllene

Beta-caryophyllene makes up approximately 3.56% of the oil components. Beta-caryophyllene is an FDA-approved food additive and that is sometimes used to create a clove-like aroma in some perfumes. Cloves are a natural source of this substance.

Additional Components

The other trace components of clove oil include: a-Humulene (.4%), (E)-beta-Ocimene (.33%), p-Allyl phenol (.19%), Caryophyllene oxide (.1%), a-Copaene (.1%), Methyl saliculate (.07%), alpha-Cadinene (.04%), 2-Heptyl acetate (.04%), 2-Heptanone (.04%), 2-Nonanone (.02%), Linaloola (.01%), a-Pinene (.01%) and trace amounts of p-Cymene.