One of our staples, the versatile clove (laung), a dried flower bud of a tropical plant, is renowned for its medicinal qualities besides being used extensively as a flavoring agent in Indian dishes. It has been used for centuries in Ayurveda as well as traditional Chinese medicine across a wide range of applications from treating toothaches to being an aphrodisiac.
Found across South-East Asian and African countries, it is enriched with several health benefits. It is used in its raw form and is made available in the form of supplements and oils.
NUTRITIONAL PROFILE
Enriched with healthy carbohydrates, dietary fiber, proteins and essential minerals like iron, potassium, sodium, zinc, magnesium, calcium, it also serves as a rich source of Vitamins such as Vitamin C, A, B12, B6, D, Niacin, Riboflavin, Folate and Thiamine. Owing to this vast array of nutrients, cloves act as an anti-oxidant, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory agent.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF CLOVES
Here are some of the several health benefits of clove:
1 . Cure Toothache
Clove contains an active component, Eugenol that has antiseptic and anaesthetic properties. When applied in its extracted oil or raw form to sites of toothache, the Eugenol soothes the nerves and the pain subsides within minutes.
2 . Aid Digestion
It is an Indian custom to have some breath freshener after a meal. Clove, after the meals, stimulates the secretion of digestive juices. Studies have shown that this helps reduce flatulence, gas formation and bloating.
3 . Control Diabetes
In traditional medicine, clove extract has been used for ages to control spikes in blood sugar levels. The clove extract, mimics insulin that helps in regulating the blood sugar levels.
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4 . Alleviate Joint Pain
Eugenol, the active compound of cloves, possess anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Massaging the affected area with olive/coconut oil infused with a few drops of clove oil can be an effective remedy for the people suffering from joint pain resulting from some injury or arthritis.
5 . Boost Immunity
Clove has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-oxidizing properties. When consumed regularly, the active component Eugenol improves the body’s immunity by increasing the white blood cell count. A major part of the country, still vouches by cloves to alleviate cough and cold.
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6 . Boost Sexual Wellness
The Chinese have been chewing on dried clove buds to better conjugal life for centuries. Recent studies have shown that having a few cloves can help in improving sexual performance.
7 . Nourish Hair
The anti-microbial properties of clove help to cleanse the scalp, add a bounce and improve texture of your hair. Cloves are especially recommended for colored hair. Boil 10-12 cloves in a liter of water and cool the concoction before applying to the hair after a shampoo.
You can have 1-2 cloves as raw or add them to your daily cuppa. You can also add this spice to your daily cooking. Clove oil is also available and can be applied for relieving tooth ache or joint pains. So, go ahead and try this wonder spice and reap the countless health benefits that it has to offer. Stay Healthy, Stay Happy!