Can A Clove-Studded Apple Ease Migraines? Viral Video Claim Debunked By Expert
For generations, Indian households have trusted home remedies for everything from coughs to headaches. When it comes to migraines, social media is full of advice. One recent trend claims that eating a clove-studded apple every morning can cure migraines and acidity. Videos and posts suggest inserting seven cloves into an apple, leaving it overnight, and eating it on an empty stomach for a month to ‘eliminate’ migraines. But is there any truth to this? We asked an expert to separate fact from fiction and explain what science really says about this popular hack.
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The viral remedy claims that eating an apple with cloves inserted into it can completely cure migraines and acidity. Supporters believe apples reduce inflammation thanks to their antioxidants, while cloves are thought to help with pain and acidity. But is this really a miracle cure?
Dr Robin Sharma, Ayurvedic Expert, Ayurveda Clinic, Gurgaon, shares his opinion on the topic. “See, if we say that this is a treatment, then it is wrong to say this. This can also work in some patients. And that is also the reason behind it. Like, there is a little antioxidant property in the apple, due to which the swelling is reduced. Due to this, the migraine may or may not be lessened. But the chances are very low that this will happen only with the use of Apple.”
He further explains, “And because of long (clove), sometimes it gets a little benefit in the condition of acidity. And mostly because of acidity, when this migraine is triggered in some people, it can be useful there. But let me tell you one thing, this can't be called a sure shot of long acidity because some people get acidity due to eating long. So in such a condition, it can be more. And this is just a little bit to tell people. Now, it is not right to call it a treatment. Some people may benefit, but most will not get any benefit from it.”
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Migraines often come with nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light or sound. Dr Shobha N, Consultant, Neurologist and Stroke Physician, Manipal Hospital, Malleshwaram, shares, "It is a common neurological disorder that is much more than just a headache. It involves a complex process in the brain and nervous system, where the brain’s way of processing sensory information gets affected. This condition is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors.
Recent fact-checks and medical reviews confirm there is no scientific evidence that a clove-studded apple can cure migraines or acidity. While apples are healthy and cloves have some pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties, their effects are mild and not specific to migraines. Some studies suggest that sniffing clove oil may reduce headache symptoms for a short time, but eating cloves with apples is not a recognised or proven treatment.
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While home remedies like clove-studded apples are popular and may offer comfort to some, they are not a cure for migraines. As Dr Robin Sharma says, “Some people may benefit, but most will not get any benefit from it.” If you suffer from frequent or severe migraines, it’s important to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and evidence-based treatment. Relying only on home remedies may delay effective care and relief.