Sourced from Syzygium aromaticum, an evergreen tree that grows in Asia and South America, cloves are a spice used in cooking. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, cloves have been used tonically in traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic medicine to strengthen the immune system, reduce inflammation, and aid in digestion.
In ayurveda, cloves are considered to enhance circulation, digestion and metabolism and help counter stomach disorders such as gas, bloating and nausea. The essential oil of clove is used as an ingredient in oral hygiene products to promote tooth health and freshen the breath.
The clove contributes the pungent and astringent tastes. Cloves help pacify Vata and Kapha and increase Pitta.
Cloves are used both whole and ground in ayurvedic cooking. Whole cloves sautéed in ghee with other spices such as cinnamon, bay leaves and peppercorns enhance the flavor of rice and pilafs. Cloves are an essential ingredient in curry powders and combine well with other ayurvedic spices such as turmeric, cinnamon, cumin and coriander.
Health Benefits
Contain important nutrients
Cloves contain fiber, vitamins, and minerals, so using whole or ground cloves to add flavor to your food can provide some important nutrients.
High in antioxidants
In addition to containing several important vitamins and minerals, cloves are rich in antioxidants
May help protect against cancer
Some research suggests that the compounds found in cloves might help protect against cancer.
Can kill bacteria
Cloves have been shown to have antimicrobial properties, meaning they can help stop the growth of microorganisms like bacteria
May improve liver health
Studies show that the beneficial compounds in cloves could help promote liver health. The compound eugenol may be especially beneficial for the liver.
May help regulate blood sugar
Research shows that the compounds found in cloves may help keep blood sugar under control.
May promote bone health
Low bone mass is a condition that affects an estimated 43 million older adults in the United States alone
May reduce stomach ulcers
Some research indicates that the compounds found in cloves could help treat stomach ulcers.
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