Food & Cooking Do cloves lose their effectiveness over time? February 7, 2026 by Riding Cloves, like many spices, can lose their effectiveness over time. This loss is primarily due to the degradation of essential oils that give cloves their potent flavor and aroma. Proper storage can help maintain their potency for a longer period. How Long Do Cloves Retain Their Potency? Cloves are most effective when fresh, but they […] Read more »