Fact Check: Can combination of Apple and Clove completely eliminate migraine and acidity?

A post on Instagram claims that a combination of apples and cloves can completely eliminate migraine and acidity. The claim is False.

Claim

An Instagram post titled "Migrain hai, Acidity hai to seb ko raise khaye both aram hoga(If you have MIGRAINE or ACIDITY, eat an apple like this, will provide great relief)," the user dcdhyani_naturopathy claims that consuming the combination of apple and clove completely Eliminate migraine and acidity. He went on to tell the method of inserting seven cloves into an apple and leaving the apple in a safe place for about 12 hours. Once the 12 hours are over, remove the cloves and start eating this apple daily on an empty stomach in the morning. If this routine is continued regularly for 1 to 1.5 months (30-40 days), it will completely eliminate migraines and acidity. It will also heal wounds inside the throat caused by acid reflux affecting the food pipe.

The post has 194,704 likes and can be accessed here.

Fact Check

The claim is False. While cloves and apples offer various nutritional benefits, their ability to completely eliminate migraines and acidity is not well-supported by scientific research. Additionally, they are not recognized as recommended treatments for migraines and acidity within the medical community. The method described—leaving cloves inside an apple for 12 hours—has no basis in medical literature or naturopathic principles for treating migraines or acidity.

Benefits of Apple and Clove

Apples are a wholesome fruit filled with nutrients like antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and fiber, all of which support various aspects of health. Their fiber aids digestion, while the vitamins and minerals enhance general well-being. Additionally, apples contain antioxidants that combat free radicals produced by environmental exposure or normal bodily functions, potentially preventing cellular damage by reducing oxidative stress.

Clove, scientifically known as Syzygium aromaticum, is a highly valued spice, historically used for both food preservation and a range of medicinal purposes. It possesses a variety of nutritional benefits, largely attributed to its antioxidant, antimicrobial, analgesic, and antiviral properties. These distinct qualities contribute to clove's reputation as a standout among spices, offering significant health-promoting effects that have been recognized for centuries.

What is Migraine?

Migraine is a genetically influenced neurological disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of moderate-to-severe headaches, often occurring on one side of the head and accompanied by nausea, light sensitivity, and sound sensitivity. These attacks, lasting from hours to days, can significantly disrupt daily activities and diminish quality of life. Migraine triggers are diverse, including stress, hormonal fluctuations, certain foods, and environmental factors. As a prevalent cause of disability, migraines can lead to lost workdays and productivity, reflecting their profound impact on personal and professional life.

When asked about the early signs that can help diagnose migraine, Dr Rahul Chawla, MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DM (Neurology), Consultant, Neurologist at IBS Hospital, New Delhi told Medical Dialogues that, "Early signs of a migraine can include mood changes, fatigue, food cravings, and neck stiffness. Some people experience an aura, with visual changes. As the headache sets in, nausea and sensitivity to light or sound are common. If these symptoms recur, consult a doctor for proper diagnosis."

Acidity and its Causes

Acidity, medically termed as heartburn, is characterized by a burning sensation in the chest or throat caused by stomach acid entering the oesophagus (food pipe). It can result from conditions like acid reflux or its chronic form, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Certain foods, such as spicy dishes, acidic foods (e.g., oranges, lemons, tomatoes), alcohol, and caffeinated beverages like coffee and tea, can increase the likelihood of heartburn. Occasional heartburn is generally not worrisome. However, if it becomes frequent, disrupts daily life, or is linked to GERD, it can lead to serious issues with the oesophagus.

Dr Prakhar Gupta, M.S (General surgery), FNB (Minimal access surgery), FMBS (Fellow Of Metabolic and Bariatric surgery) is a Gastrointestinal, Bariatric and Advanced Laparoscopic Surgeon, explained common causes of acid reflux, and ways to avoid them, he said, "Acid reflux is commonly triggered by factors like overeating, spicy or fatty foods, caffeine, alcohol, smoking, and lying down soon after meals. Stress, obesity, and certain medications can also contribute. To minimize it, try eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoid known trigger foods, and maintain a healthy weight."

Can consuming the combination of Apple and Clove completely eliminate migraine?

Apples and cloves offer a range of nutritional benefits. Apples are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and fibre, while cloves provide antioxidant, antimicrobial, analgesic, and antiviral properties. Studies have noted their potential roles in alleviating migraines and reducing acidity; however, their effectiveness is generally considered limited or unclear. Importantly, there is no scientific evidence or medical consensus supporting the claim that a combination of apples and cloves can fully eliminate migraines and acidity.

There are studies that have investigated the effects of apples on migraine management. One such study published in the Bioscience Research assessed the effectiveness of apple-quince syrup (made of apple and quince) on the frequency, severity and duration of migraine headaches and found that apple-quince syrup is an effective option for early treatment of migraines, particularly for individuals who initially experience mild headaches that later progress to moderate to severe headache. However, this study also focused on the use of apple-quince syrup in reducing migraine symptoms but does not support the use of apples with cloves. The study also did not support the two ingredients as a cure that would eliminate migraine

There has been separate research that has also explored the potential use of cloves in managing headaches. A mini-review article published in Applied Food Research mentioned that sniffing the strong aroma of clove buds reduces headache, irritability, and drowsiness. It does not explicitly recommend the use of clove for migraines. 

There is another review conducted by Mayank Agrawal et. al highlighted the use of clove for migraine and headaches. The review noted Clove oil has analgesic properties, which may offer temporary pain relief, including for headaches. However, there is no direct evidence in the document supporting cloves as a complete cure for migraines.

Dr Rahul Chawla, MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DM (Neurology), Consultant, and Neurologist at IBS Hospital, New Delhi told Medical Dialogues, "Although apples and cloves have some nutritional benefits, there’s no scientific evidence to support that they can cure them. While they may provide minor relief due to their nutritional properties, they’re not a proven solution. For effective management of migraines, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional and consider evidence-based treatments tailored to your condition."

Can consuming the combination of Apple and Clove completely eliminate acidity?

Research has explored the role of apples in managing stomach acidity. A study published in the journal Nutrients has mentioned various natural active ingredients including apples that may help reduce stomach acid secretions.

Similarly there is research on the effects of cloves on stomach acidity. A review article about the uses and properties of clove published in the Biomolecules has mentioned that along with other beneficial properties clove also possesses gastroprotective efficacy. But there is no such study about clove in reducing stomach acidity or relieving heartburn.

While there are several studies suggesting the potential benefits of apples and cloves individually for managing acidity (heartburn), their effectiveness is generally described as limited or supportive, rather than potent and one-all cure. No research indicates that combining apples and cloves can manage or completely eliminate acidity.

Dr Prakhar Gupta, M.S (General Surgery), FNB (Minimal access surgery), FMBS (Fellow Of Metabolic and Bariatric surgery) is a Gastrointestinal, Bariatric and Advanced Laparoscopic Surgeon added about the role of apple and clove on acidity, "Apples and cloves do have some beneficial properties, but they aren't a cure for acid reflux or chronic acidity. While apples may provide temporary relief and cloves can offer mild soothing effects, they’re not effective treatments. For lasting relief and proper care, it's best to consult a healthcare professional."

Medical Dialogues Final Take

Apples and cloves each offer specific health benefits, such as antioxidants and gastroprotective properties. However, their effectiveness in addressing migraines and acidity tends to be limited and not well-established. Despite their individual benefits, there is no clear scientific support or medical consensus that combining apples and cloves can effectively manage or completely eliminate migraines or acidity. Hence the claim, that consuming the combination of Apple and Clove completely eliminates migraine and acidity is False.