Clove, a spice with a rich history and diverse uses, is derived from the sun-dried flower buds of the clove, making them brown and hard with a spicy, pungent flavor. With over 2,000 years of use in Asia for medicinal and culinary purposes, cloves gained popularity in Europe during the Middle Ages, even rivaling pepper in terms of fame.
Interestingly, 95% of global clove production goes into making Indonesian cigarettes, despite its widespread culinary use. The fragility of the clove tree and the practice of harvesting its buds before the petals emerge, which generally begins in the tree’s eighth year, contribute to this unique situation.
Cloves are known for their various health benefits:
Cloves are known for their various health benefits. For example, steeping 4 or 5 cloves in boiling water creates a drink that can ease digestive issues like stomach upset and bloating. Additionally, cloves are beneficial for dental health. Sucking a clove can freshen your breath and prevent dental problems, thanks to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Eugenol, present in cloves, is an effective antiseptic for dental and gum pain. It acts on peripheral opioid receptors, which are involved in pain perception. To relieve tooth pain, it is recommended to use an oily maceration or mother tincture of clove, although a dentist should be consulted for persistent pain.
Cloves also relieve muscle and rheumatic pain. A massage oil based on clove essential oil mixed with a carrier oil such as jojoba or sweet almond can relieve this pain.
Additionally, the antiviral and antibacterial properties of clove essential oil make it a useful preventative measure against colds and flu. Ingesting a mixture of clove essential oil and olive oil or dissolving it on a sugar cube can harness these benefits.
Finally, for urinary infections and kidney stones, an infusion of cloves, possibly accompanied by a drop of lavender essential oil, can be effective. However, it is crucial to consult a doctor for proper treatment of these conditions.
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