You might have heard about the clove benefits for toothache and your dental health, but do you know that have other health benefits as well.
Originating from Indonesia, clove is a dried flower bud from the clove tree.
They are a popular spice that many individuals use in soups, stews, meats, sauces, and rice dishes.
Their name comes from a Latin word, Clavus, which means nail as the shape of a dried clove resembles that of a nail.
People all around the world have used it in cooking and traditional medicine for many years in raw form or as clove tea.
However, only recently, many scientists have begun studying their potential health benefits.
Moreover, studies suggest that the compounds in cloves have several health benefits.
These include supporting liver health, benefiting your immune system to stabilizing your blood sugar levels.
Keep on reading to learn more about the potential health benefits of clove and its uses.
Nutrients of Clove
Clove contains a number of nutrients including fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Thus using them as whole or in ground form can provide you some important nutrients.
One teaspoon or 2 grams of ground cloves contains:
- calories: 6
- carbs: 1 gram
- fiber 2 grams
- manganese: 55% of the daily value or DV
- vitamin K: 2% of the DV
Manganese is an essential mineral for maintaining your brain functions and building strong bones.
Other than being a rich source of manganese. you can use cloves in small amounts and do not provide significant amounts of other nutrients.
Clove Benefits: High in Antioxidants
Along with other important vitamins and minerals, cloves are rich in .
Antioxidants are compounds that help to reduce oxidative stress, which can contribute to the development of chronic diseases.
Clove contains Eugenal, that according to studies acts as a natural antioxidant.
According to a test tube study, eugenol helps to stop oxidative damage due to free radicals 5 times more effective than vitamin E, which is another potent antioxidant.
Thus, including cloves in your diet along with other antioxidant-rich foods can help to improve your overall health.
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Protect Against Cancer
According to some research, the compounds found in cloves can help to protect against cancer.
One test-tube study suggests that clove extract helps to stop the growth of tumors and promotes cell death in cancer cells.
Another study suggests the same results, showing the in concentrated form, clove oil causes cell death in 80% of the esophageal cancer cells.
The eugenol present in cloves has anti-cancer properties.
However, bear in mind that these test-tube studies used very concentrated amounts of clove extract, clove oil, and eugenol.
Moreover, eugenol is toxic in high amounts and its overdose can cause liver damage, especially in children.
Further research is needed to determine how lower amounts can affect humans.
Clove Benefits: Kills Bacteria
Studies suggest that clove has antimicrobial properties, which means that they can help stop the growth of micro-organism like bacteria.
According to a test-tube study, clove essential oil helps to kill 3 common types of bacteria.
These include E. coli, which is a strain of bacteria that can cause food poisoning.
Moreover, the antibacterial properties of cloves can even help to promote oral health.
In another study, the compounds extracted from clovers were found to stop the growth of the above 2 types of bacteria.
These two types contribute to gum diseases.
Another study suggests that using an herbal mouthwash consisting of tea tree oil, cloves, and basil improves gum health.
Moreover, it helps to reduce the amount of plaque and bacteria in your mouth.
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Helps to Improve Liver Health
Studies suggest that the beneficial compounds in cloves can help promote liver health.
The compound eugenol is especially good for the health of your liver.
According to an animal study, clove oil or eugenol improves liver functions, reduces inflammation, and decreases oxidative stress.
Thus, reducing fatty liver disease.
Another animal study suggests that cloves help to reverse the signs of liver cirrhosis or scarring of the liver.
However, the effect of clove and eugenol on the liver of humans is limited.
But one study found that individuals who take eugenol supplements for 1 week show a decrease in glutathione-S-transferases, GSTs.
This is a family of enzymes that are involved in detoxification that is often a marker of liver diseases.
Moreover, cloves are high in antioxidants that can help prevent liver diseases.
This is due to their ability to decrease oxidative stress.
However, keep in mind that eugenol is toxic in high amounts.
One case study found that clove oil caused serious damage to a child, 2 years of age when ingested 5 to 10 mL of it.
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Regulates Blood Sugar
According to studies, compounds found in cloves can help and even regulate blood sugar levels.
An animal study suggests that clove extracts can help moderate blood sugar increases in mice with diabetes.
Moreover, cloves and nigericin that increase the uptake of sugar from the blood into the cells, increases the secretion of insulin.
Thus, helps to improve the function of cells that produce insulin.
Insulin is a hormone that is responsible for transporting sugar from your blood into the cells.
The proper functioning of the liver is important for maintaining steady blood sugar levels.
Along with a balanced diet, cloves can help you to keep your blood sugar levels in check.
Clove Benefits: May promote Bone Health
Low bone mass is a condition that affects about 43 million older adults in the United States alone.
Image the number worldwide.
It can lead to the development of osteoporosis, which can increase the risk of breaks and fractures.
In some animal studies, clove helps to preserve bone mass.
For instance, one animal study suggests that clove extract that is high in eugenol can help improve several markers of osteoporosis.
Moreover, it helps to increase bone density and strength.
Cloves are rich in manganese, providing an impressive 30% of the DV in just 1 tsp or 2 grams of ground cloves.
Manganese is a mineral that helps in the formation of bone and is also important for the health of your bones.
However, it is important to note that current research on the effects of clove on bone mass is limited to animal and test-tube studies.
More research is needed to determine how it affects bone formation.
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Clove Benefits: Reduce Stomach Ulcers
Some of the research suggests that the compounds present in cloves can help treat stomach ulcers.
Also known as peptic ulcers, stomach ulcers can b painful sores that form in the lining of your stomach, duodenum, or esophagus.
Moreover, they are due to reductions in the protective lining of the stomach.
This is often due to stress, infections, and genetics.
According to one animal study, essential oil from cloves shows to increase the production of gastric mucus.
Gastric mucus functions are a barrier and help to prevent erosion of the stomach lining from the digestive acids.
Although the anti-ulcer effects of cloves and their compounds may be promising, further studies are required on their effects in humans.
Potential Side Effects and Risks
According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, there are different side effects associated with clove oil.
In some cases, it can cause skin, eye, and respiratory irritation or an allergic reaction on the skin.
Moreover, it is also flammable and can be fatal if you swallow it and it goes into the airway.
According to a case report, a 15-month-old child experienced liver failure after consuming 10 milliliters or ml of clove oil.
Another incident shows that a boy who drank 5 to 1o ml of clove oil experienced multiple medical conditions.
These include coma, liver damage, and problems with blood clotting.
Moreover, it can also increase your chance of bleeding or increase your body’s response to warfarin.
Thus, it is important to discuss the use of any herbal products with your medical professional, so that they can review potential side effects and interactions.
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Using Cloves
Cloves are popular for their strong taste and smell, and you can purchase them in ground form or in the whole form.
Many cuisines use cloves, and it is an important ingredient in certain condiments like ketchup and Worcestershire sauce.
Moreover, some perfumes even use it for the aroma and are also found as an essential oil.
You can use clove in similar ways as cinnamon and ginger and can also be used to flavor applesauce, oatmeal, muffins, and cookies.
It can also be used in tea along with certain other spices. source
AMAZING CLOVE OIL BENEFITS FOR YOUR SKIN, HAIR AND HEALTH
Clove is a powerhouse of health benefits. It has been used for centuries in Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine to cure various diseases. Apart from adding flavour and aroma to our food, clove benefits can be obtained from its oil, stem, leaves as well as dried buds. The anti-microbial, anti-fungal, antiviral and antiseptic properties of cloves make it an excellent home remedy for various ailments. A rich source of antioxidants, cloves can be used to address the most common skin, hair and health problems. One of the most common benefits of cloves is its ability to numb toothache.
Using cloves in its original form can be a lot of work, therefore its oil is preferred in Ayurveda and other DIY remedies. The benefits of clove oil are the same as the spice itself, so if you are looking to treat common skin, hair and health concerns, we suggest you get your hands on some pure clove oil.
The antibacterial and antiseptic properties of cloves kill acne-causing bacteria and keep breakouts at bay. Clove oil contains a compound called eugenol that helps in treating acne by reducing the inflammation and redness. To reap the benefits of clove, mix a few drops of clove essential oil with a carrier oil and use it as a spot treatment or add it to your daily moisturiser and apply all over the face. Avoid using clove oil if you have sensitive skin.
- Fights the signs of ageing
Did you know clove oil is a powerful anti-ageing ingredient used in cosmetics? It works in reducing skin sagging and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The application of clove oil improves blood circulation, which gives skin a youthful and radiant look. Mix a few drops of clove oil in your serum or moisturizer and apply on cleansed skin at night, before going to bed for the best results.
- Fades dark spots and blemishes
Apart from healing and preventing acne, another clove oil benefit is that it also fades dark spots and blemishes left behind by acne and pimples. It has mild exfoliating properties that remove dead skin cells and ensure an even skin tone. Mix a few drops of clove essential oil with a carrier oil and massage onto your face in circular motions. Repeat every night for the best results.
While the exact cause of dandruff is unknown, many men and women face this common scalp problem. Dandruff can be an embarrassing problem, especially when it flakes and falls on your shoulders. Use the benefits of clove oil to treat this problem. As mentioned before, clove oil contains anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties, this helps fight dandruff and prevents the itchy sensation. To soothe a dry and irritated scalp that has dandruff, add 10-12 drops of clove essential oil to your regular shampoo and use it to wash your hair.
The compound eugenol found in clove oil helps promote hair growth when applied to the roots. It can also repair, strengthen and add a healthy shine to the hair shaft when applied regularly. To use clove oil for stronger and healthier hair growth, add a teaspoon of clove oil to warm coconut oil and apply it to the roots of your hair using your fingertips. Wash off after 2-3 hours. This will improve blood circulation in the scalp and promote stronger hair growth.
- Prevents premature ageing
Spotting a few grey strands in your thirties is normal, but if you have more grey hair than black, then it needs to be addressed. In fact, people in their late 20s have also started experiencing premature hair greying. Here’s how you can tackle the problem using the benefits of clove oil. It contains some unique elements that improve the production of the pigment responsible for keeping hair in its natural colour. Combine three tablespoons of eucalyptus oil with a teaspoon of clove oil and massage your scalp and hair twice a week.
Clove oil is one of the oldest remedies to fight stomach and digestion-related issues. The presence of eugenol in clove and clove oil helps treat gastric problems like indigestion. It can also be used to address motion sickness and hiccups. Avoid taking medicines, instead, simply chew on a clove to get relief from digestion related issues like acidity and heartburn. You can also add a few cloves to your tea to keep the problem of indigestion at bay.
Before you reach out for that medicine box for your headache, head to the kitchen and use the benefits of clove to get relief from the headache. Clove oil is an excellent pain reliever, the flavonoids in clove oil have anti-inflammatory agents that have a cooling effect and relieve headaches. Simply mix four drops of clove oil with salt and apply it on your forehead for instant relief.
A good immune system keeps several health issues at bay, therefore it is recommended to include immunity-boosting foods into our diet. The antioxidant property of cloves can help strengthen the immune system and protect it from heart ailments and viruses. It also improves the immune system by increasing the white blood cell count in the body. source
1. Antioxidant Properties
In a study quoted by NIH, it was found that cloves are a powerful antioxidant that aids in the treatment of various chronic health conditions. Antioxidants help reduce oxidative stress, inhibiting chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Clove is rich in eugenol, a natural antioxidant that fights 5 times more against free radicals than any other antioxidant. It stops cell damage, thus preventing the development of multiple diseases.
Including cloves in your diet with other antioxidant-rich foods can improve your health.
2. Anti-Inflammatory
The anti-inflammatory properties of cloves result from two essential and powerful phytonutrients, eugenol and isoeugenol. These phytonutrients reduce inflammation in the body and prevent the development of some conditions like arthritis or chronic conditions.
3. Anti-Cancer Properties
Cloves have anti-cancer properties because of eugenol. In a research article published in the Journal of Hindawi, eugenol oil has shown various anti-cancer properties. Some test-tube observations explain that eugenol has the capability of killing cancer cells, and it can also hinder tumour growth, majorly in cervical and oesophagus cancer. For these tests, cloves were used in concentrated amounts.
There is a need for thorough and further research about cloves to explain their anti-cancer properties. Eugenol is toxic in excess amounts that can impact health, especially liver health, significantly.
4. Anti-Diabetic
Cloves are also known for their anti-diabetic property. It is considered to control your blood sugar levels because of the presence of nigericin compounds. It helps in reducing insulin resistance and can promote moderate sugar levels.
Insulin is the hormone that manages blood sugar levels in the body by carrying it from the blood to the cells. Cloves help to improve the functions of insulin-producing cells and manage their levels. Some studies show its impact on test tubes and animal research. A study published by NIH shows the anti-diabetic effect of clove on rabbits, although more studies are needed.
5. Anti-Microbial Properties
Cloves have antimicrobial agents that reduce the development of bacteria-like microorganisms. It can act against bacteria and fungi like E. Coli., vaginal candidiasis, and staph aureus. Clove extracts and clove oil help in fighting against food poisoning and stomach infections.
This spice is popular for strengthening oral health. It fights against resting mouth bacteria and improves oral hygiene by reducing bad breath and gum infections. It is used in mouthwash and toothpaste to reduce oral bacteria and plaque on teeth
6. Suitable For The Liver
According to some studies, cloves help to improve liver health. The compound eugenol has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that promote liver health. It reduces the risk of liver cirrhosis and fatty liver condition. It helps to strengthen liver health by decreasing oxidative stress. Some studies show that clove can help decrease the levels of glutathione-S-transferases (GSTs) responsible for liver diseases.
Although cloves can be identified as a good source for liver health, there is still a need for more human studies.
On the other hand, excess consumption of cloves can damage the liver because of eugenol toxicity.
7. Helps Reduce Ulcers
Stomach ulcers are the result of stress, infections, or genetics. These ulcers are caused by the depletion of the mucus layer in the stomach. This mucus layer helps to safeguard stomach walls from digestive acids. If these walls get thin, it results in stomach ulcers. Cloves have some compounds that help in thickening these walls.
According to WebMD, clove helps reduce the risks of developing new ulcers and also treats existing ulcers. Clove oil can help increase stomach mucus and decrease the probability of gastric ulcers.
8. Natural Painkiller And Anti-Cough Properties
As a traditional medicine, clove treats cough, sore throat, and toothache. It is a common home remedy used with hot beverages for treating cough. Clove oil is also an effective painkiller that has been used to treat toothache for centuries.
9. Good For Bone Health
A large population is at risk of low bone density, arthritis, and osteoporosis. Cloves are rich in manganese, which is important for bone health. Also, as per the findings of NIH, eugenol in clove helps increase bone density and strength. These benefits of clove eventually prevent conditions like osteoporosis, fractures, and breaks because of low bone mass. Although these studies are limited to animals, there is much room for human research and clove’s impact on human bone health. However, a small amount of clove powder fulfils almost 30% of the daily required manganese in the body.
10. Clove Benefits For Men
Cloves are very beneficial for men and impact men’s reproductive health. It is very useful in increasing men’s health in multiple ways, they are:
It increases testosterone levels, improves sex life, increases sperm count, removes infertility, increases libido, reduces the condition of early ejaculation, and strengthens reproductive organs.
Apart from these, using clove essential oil in bathing can also reduce the craving for smoking, thus keeping you free from smoking addiction.
11. Apart From These Benefits, Cloves Also Have Other Benefits Like
Treating cold, flu, cough, and chest congestion. Any hot beverage mixed with clove and cinnamon can help lower the symptoms of these conditions.
It is also good for the skin. Cloves can detoxify skin and reduce acne, blemishes, and dark circles. It is used in many herbal face packs for better results and glowing skin.
Way to Consume Clove
This is an omnipresent spice or herb that can be used year-long in food, medicines, and cosmetics. These dried flowers not only have a distinct aroma but flavour as well. You can consume it in many ways, including as a whole bud, with beverages, and in many dishes.
You can use it in multiple ways:
Clove Tea
Clove tea is the easiest recipe to enjoy the benefits of cloves. To make clove tea:
- Use a tablespoon of grounded clove
- Boil it for some minutes
- Strain it and drink it as an effective clove tea.
Clove Water
Clove water is also a great way of consuming this magical spice.
- Put 3-5 clove buds in a glass of water and leave them overnight.
- Drink it in the morning to see amazing results.
Apart from clove tea and clove water, you can also mix this dried flower in many dishes for flavor and taste:
- Use in curries and chutneys
- Add in pickles
- Masala Milk Tea with Clove
- Add in Baking, Cookies, and Bread
- Used to season meat
- It can also be used as a natural preservative
Side-Effects of Clove
Cloves have many health benefits but can also affect health negatively and cause a few side effects. These strong spices can lower blood sugar and can cause hypoglycemia, where a person can feel dizziness and nausea. As per WebMD, clove’s compound, eugenol, can also react with some blood-thinning medicines and increase the chances of side effects. However, small amounts of clove can have more positive results than negatives, but always pay attention while consuming it in excess. Eugenol in excess amounts can be toxic and can cause dizziness.
According to the traditional medicine system, cloves are a hot spice that can cause nosebleeds, mouth ulcers, stomach burning or irritation, and throat rashes if consumed in excess.
Also, some people are allergic to cloves, so they should avoid them.
Can Diabetics Eat Cloves?
Many studies suggest that cloves are good for diabetes. It helps in controlling blood sugar levels and increases insulin production. This super spice helps cells secrete insulin, responsible for moderate blood sugar levels in the body.
Clove’s GI and GL are low. It’s also low on carbs and calories, which is a good factor in making it a diabetic-friendly spice. Clove oil helps maintain PP sugar levels and GRM. source
