Cloves are already well known, but are primarily used in sweets, especially those containing fruit. Banana and pumpkin candies, for example, always contain a light clove note.
However, cloves are used worldwide for more than just flavoring sweets. They can also be used to flavor jams, sauces (plain or stuck into an onion with a bay leaf), vegetables, cheese, rice, and even meat.
Cloves not only add flavor to your recipes but also offer numerous health benefits. After all, it’s no surprise that they’ve been used medicinally for thousands of years.
1. Cloves promote blood circulation.
The oil extracted from cloves improves blood circulation, which benefits the entire body. Furthermore, by supporting blood purification, your skin is better supplied with nutrients and your immune system is strengthened.
2. Cloves are a natural painkiller and antiseptic.
Eugenol, a natural antibacterial agent in cloves, helps clear acne scars, regulate skin health, and prevent the formation of wrinkles. Clove tea can also help with headaches, menstrual cramps, fever, toothaches, and sore throats.
3. Cloves are good for the digestive tract.
Cloves stimulate the secretion of gastrointestinal enzymes, improving digestion and relieving indigestion, constipation, nausea, and stomach upset. They also boost metabolism, leading to faster fat burning and making them a natural weight loss aid.
4. Cloves are antioxidants.
Clove is a powerful antioxidant that fights free radicals and prevents skin damage. It has the incredible ability to produce hydrogen and prevent lipid peroxidation, the breakdown of polyunsaturated fats that damage our bodies.
5. Cloves are an oral antiseptic.
Clove compounds are already used in toothpastes to fight bacteria in the mouth and stomach. Consuming cloves can help eliminate bad breath, prevent tooth decay, and relieve tooth and gum problems.
