Q: Sir, I am a 24 year old student and have started chewing cloves during the day and night (about 20 cloves). Is this injurious to health in any form as I was told by someone that it should not be taken in large amount because it has some bad effects. I started taking cloves just because I want to chew something and I don't like chewing toffees, gutka or pan masala.

A:Constantly chewing on something can cause damage to the lining inside the mouth which can pose a risk for cancer of the oral cavity. Try and minimize the need for chewing. Eating a couple (upto 3) cloves per day should be okay. Avoid gutka and pan masala and keep yourself mentally occupied. Drinking hot beverages like herbal tea/green tea may be a good subsitute.