10 Ways to Use Cloves in Witchcraft

Clove magic and my pantry witch heart

Cloves are one of those ingredients I always have on hand. Tucked into a little glass jar on the second shelf of my spice cupboard, nestled beside the cinnamon sticks and dried orange peel, cloves feel like home. When I first started exploring kitchen witchcraft, I loved that something so small and fragrant could carry such potent energy. It felt like discovering magic right in my own pantry.

Cloves hold a special place in my heart because they remind me that witchcraft doesn’t need to be elaborate. When I moved countries and lost most of my tools, I leaned into simplicity. A few herbs, a white candle, and my intention were more than enough. Cloves became a staple in my spellwork not just for their power, but for their accessibility. Anyone can work with cloves, and they’re wonderfully versatile.

This post is a little love letter to the humble clove and all the ways it can be used in witchcraft. Whether you’re creating protective charms, enhancing your spell jars, or just want your home to feel a bit more magical, cloves are a beautiful, powerful ally to have by your side.

10 Ways to Use Cloves in Witchcraft

Simmer pot for warding

I often toss a few cloves into a simmer pot when I’m doing a house cleanse. They pair beautifully with cinnamon, bay leaves, and orange peel for a warm, protective brew. The scent fills the home with comforting energy while helping to push out any lingering negativity. I like to do this when I’ve had guests over or if something just feels off.

Clove-studded oranges

Clove oranges, or pomanders, are such a nostalgic and charming way to bring protection into the home. I make one every year during Yule season, studding an orange with whole cloves and letting it dry. It becomes a natural, sweet-smelling amulet to hang by the door or in a wardrobe. It’s a quiet little guardian that watches over the space.

Clove candle dressing

Cloves are sharp and pungent, perfect for banishing work. I like to crush a few and roll them into a black or white candle dressed with olive oil. When I’m trying to release something that’s been clinging to me – a habit, a thought pattern, a feeling – I light the candle and focus my intention. It’s a simple spell, but it helps shift the energy and clear space for new beginnings.

Poppet stuffing

If you’re into poppet magic, cloves make a brilliant addition to your stuffing mix when working on banishing spells. They bring a strong kick of energy that helps with cutting cords and removing influence. I’ve made a few poppets in my time for personal healing and transformation, and cloves are always in the mix.

Clove-infused honey

Cloves aren’t just about protection and power. They’ve got a warm, sensual side too. I make clove-infused honey by gently heating honey and whole cloves together, then letting it sit for a few weeks. This becomes a lovely addition to self-love rituals or sweetening spells. A little spoon stirred into tea can help draw love and affection, especially when paired with cinnamon or rose.

Charm bags

For love magic, I often add cloves to a little charm bag with rose petals, a bit of thread from my clothing, and a small crystal. The cloves give the charm a bit of spice and passion, while also offering some grounding and protection. It’s like saying, “Bring me love, but make it safe and steady.”

Sprinkle in your purse or wallet

Cloves are associated with money and prosperity, and I’ve had success using them in abundance work. I sometimes tuck a few whole cloves into the coin section of my wallet, or sprinkle crushed cloves into a small pouch that lives in my handbag. Every time I see or smell them, I’m reminded that abundance is on its way.

Clove and basil simmer pot

Another go-to is a prosperity simmer pot using cloves, basil, and a pinch of cinnamon. It smells like a warm summer garden and fills the house with expansive, abundant energy. I tend to do this on a Sunday morning, windows open, with a cup of green tea in hand.

Under-the-pillow sachet

Cloves have a slightly hypnotic scent that lends itself beautifully to dream work. I sew a small sachet with cloves, lavender, and mugwort, then tuck it under my pillow. It helps me feel safe while sleeping and seems to enhance dream clarity. I’ve had some very insightful messages come through this way.

Clove tea for divination

When I want to connect with spirit or deepen my intuitive senses before a reading, I brew a clove tea. Just one or two cloves steeped in hot water with some ginger or lemon. It’s gently stimulating, clears my head, and opens me up energetically. I like to sip it slowly while shuffling the cards.

Carry in your pocket

When I need a boost of courage – whether it’s for a meeting, an interview, or just a hard day ahead – I slip a few whole cloves into my pocket or bra. They act like a tiny talisman, reminding me of my strength and helping me stand tall. I’ve even whispered a little charm to them before heading out the door.

Anointing blend for boldness

Crushed cloves mixed with a carrier oil make a powerful anointing blend. I dab it onto my pulse points when I need to speak clearly, express myself, or step into a leadership role. It’s spicy and bold, and wearing it feels like wrapping myself in armour. Always do a skin test first, of course.

Final Thoughts

Cloves have become one of my most trusted allies in spellwork, and not because they’re fancy, but because they’re dependable. They remind me that witchcraft isn’t about complexity –  it’s about connection. Every time I work with cloves, I feel rooted and present, like I’m stirring something ancient and familiar.

If you’re feeling lost or overwhelmed by all the tools and options out there, I hope this reminds you that simplicity can be powerful. You don’t need a full apothecary or shelves of crystals. A single herb, worked with love and intention, can hold more magic than you realise – cloves are proof of that.

So go and play. Add a clove to your tea, your spell jar, or your next full moon ritual. Let yourself experiment, listen, and learn. Your practice is your own, and it’s allowed to be as grounded or as mystical as you want. And when in doubt? A pinch of clove is always a good place to begin.