Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) is an Indonesian native grown in many parts of the world, including Brazil. This plant is an excellent source of phenolic compounds like eugenol, gallic acid, and aminoglycosides.
Clove is a medium-sized (8-12 m) tree native to the Maluku islands of east Indonesia. The clove tree is commonly grown in coastal areas at maximum altitudes 200 meters above sea level. Clove is grown in the Brazilian states of Valença, Ituberá, Taperoá, Camamu, and Nilo Peçanha.
Traditionally, cloves have been used as a spice derived from the clove tree’s flower buds (Syzygium aromaticum). Whole cloves have a bulbous top and resemble a tiny, reddish-brown spike. They’re about a centimeter long.
It’s a pungent, aromatic culinary spice for savory meals, sweets, and drinks. The tiny flower buds that grow on the evergreen tree make the spice.
Health Benefits and Uses
Here are ten of the most effective ways to use it to improve your health and well-being.
1. Antioxidants
A study found that cloves had any spice’s greatest concentration of antioxidants. Compound eugenol prevents oxidative damage five times better than vitamin E by free radicals. Catalase and superoxide dismutase are the only two antioxidants your body makes.
2. Possible anti-cancer benefits
Cloves contain a high level of antioxidants, which protect cells from oxidative damage and, ultimately, cancer. Clove extract has been shown in studies to delay the growth of various human cancer cells in humans. Clove eugenol has anti-cancer effects and is found in the plant eugenol.
Cloves can operate as a potent anti-carcinogenic agent, slowing the proliferation of cancer cells in the body. Cloves may also have a role in cancer treatment in the future because of their ability to promote cell death and reduce cell proliferation.
3. Possesses the ability to eradicate germs
Research into the therapeutic characteristics of cloves and how they interact with human-infecting diseases has been extensive. You can employ them, for example, to kill dangerous germs such as cholera-causing types. In addition, cloves’ antibacterial characteristics may contribute to better dental health thanks to their antimicrobial effects.
There is a natural disinfectant and antioxidant in cloves called eugenol. In addition, there are immune-boosting components in raw garlic, such as allicin, which prevent bacteria growth; thus, it is comparable. Cloves are often used in dentistry to prevent gum disease.
4. It May benefit your liver health
It is thought that cloves, which are high in antioxidants, can aid in preserving the liver by reducing oxidative stress. In addition, cloves include a chemical called eugenol, which may help reverse liver cirrhosis symptoms. Cloves are also high in antioxidants, which shield the body from free radical damage.
5. It may assist in controlling your blood sugar levels
Cloves contain a high concentration of polyphenolic chemicals, which are beneficial for maintaining good metabolic health. Blood sugar levels can be claimed more quickly when using cloves extract, which has been proven to aid.
According to recent studies, it may help lower blood sugar levels both before and after meals. Many ailments, including diabetes, have been treated with traditional medicine using cloves. Due to their insulin-like properties, cloves may be able to assist in controlling blood sugar levels.
6. It has the potential to be beneficial for bone health
Clove chemicals have been found in animal experiments to help preserve bone mass. In addition, there are phenolic components, including eugenol and flavonoids, in the hydro-alcoholic preparations of this spice. However, these findings in humans need to be confirmed by additional research.
7. It may help with stomach ulcers.
Cloves have long been utilized as a digestive aid in various traditional medical traditions. Clove extract and clove oil have also been shown in animal experiments to enhance the formation of stomach mucus, which acts as a barrier between the body’s tissues and acids.
8. Increasing Digestive Health by Promoting Healthy Eating
Cloves have anti-ulcer properties, thanks to the chemicals found in them. Decreases in inflammation and oxidative stress help maintain healthy liver function. As a result, eating cloves reduces your risk of feeling nauseous from indigestion.
9. Get Rid of Acne
When used topically, clove extract’s antimicrobial qualities help clear up acne and other skin issues, including rosacea and psoriasis.
An extract of cloves containing the antibacterial compound eugenol reduced the number of bacteria in the test tube. Acne and pimples are brought on by the buildup of debris and harmful germs on your skin.
10. Providing Analgesia and Pain-Relieving Properties
Toothaches, skin outbreaks, headaches, and other diseases can all benefit from this remedy. The FDA also recommends cloves in Germany as a topical anesthetic in dentistry and mouth and gum irritation.
Evidence suggests clove oil can benefit persons with various ailments by dulling pains and swelling and providing pain relief. In addition, clove oil’s antibacterial qualities may help prevent plaque, gingivitis, and cavities by reducing mouth germs.
How to Use It
In Ayurveda, an Indian medical system, cloves are frequently utilized to numb the skin when consumed. As well as in applesauce, they’re used in muffins and cookies.
Cloves can be purchased whole or ground for cooking and are common in many cuisines. Clove oil is offered as an essential oil and is used in some perfumes. In India and Pakistan, cloves are also used to prepare chai, tea, spices, and milk beverage.
POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS
Cloves can sting or burn the skin and irritate the mucous membranes in the mouth area. To top it off, consuming too much clove oil may result in hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels). Clove products should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding since they might cause comas and dizziness.
Clove oil does not affect toothaches negatively but can irritate the skin and mucous membranes around the mouth when used topically. Clove oil consumption may cause these problems, but there’s no way to know, so it’s best to avoid it.
Conclusion
Syzygium aromaticum, the evergreen plant from which cloves come, provides a warming spice. For example, cloves may help with dental health.
Defending oneself against infections.
• Encouraging a healthier metabolism.
• Assisting with the health of the liver and digestion.
They’re loaded with antioxidants and natural anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral. Moreover, cloves are mouthwatering and may provide a slew of health benefits.
Clove can be consumed in various ways, including spice, marinades, herbal teas, or extract or oil. Cloves‘ benefits are that they help with oral health, fight infections, and improve metabolic function.
Where to Buy
You can find it at grocery stores, health food stores, and online.
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Please Note: Seek advice from your health practitioner before adding these herbs and spices to your diet because some herbs and spices might contraindicate with prescription medications.
Disclaimer: The information given here is exclusively for educational purposes only. It should not be construed as a diagnosis, treatment, preventive, or cure for any disease, disorder, or abnormal physical state, nor should it be used in place of medical care from your doctor. Consult an appropriate healthcare professional on any issue concerning your health or well-being before engaging in any health-related activity.