Secret Uses of Clove: Beyond Flavor and Aroma

Clove, also known as Laung or Lavanga in India, is a spice with a long history in traditional medicine and cuisine. Beyond its enhancing flavor and aroma in dishes like biryani, dal, curries, soups, and tea, clove offers a myriad of health benefits that extend far beyond the kitchen. In this article, we delve into the secret uses of clove and explore its wide-ranging positive impacts on health.

Nutrition Content of Cloves

Cloves are a powerhouse of nutrition, rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fibers. With a low calorie content, they are excellent for weight loss and digestion. Let’s look at the key health benefits of incorporating cloves into your diet:

1. Superb Digestion

Cloves improve digestion by stimulating enzyme secretions and increasing digestive motility. This makes them effective for relieving flatulence, gastric irritability, dyspepsia, and nausea. Their invigorating scent and mildly tangy taste make them a favorite in traditional Indian recipes.

2. Diabetes Control

For individuals with high blood sugar levels, cloves can be a beneficial addition to their diet. Research has shown that cloves can improve insulin sensitivity and aid in the efficient functioning of insulin. The best way to incorporate them is by adding ground cloves to garam masala, Goda masala, and Chettinad masala.

3. Bone and Joint Health

Packed with hydro-alcoholic compounds such as eugenol and flavonoids, cloves are great for bone health. Regular consumption can help increase bone density and mineral content, benefiting people with weak bones or osteoporosis.

4. Immune System Boost

The powerful ingredient eugenol in cloves is highly effective against harmful bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Its anti-viral properties and blood purification benefits help reduce blood toxicity and increase resistance against diseases by stimulating the production of white blood cells.

5. Pain Relief and Inflammation

Due to its strong anti-inflammatory properties, clove can provide relief from pain, including arthritis, inflammation, and general pain. Adding clove or using clove oil can alleviate these conditions effectively.

6. Toothache Relief

Clove oil is an effective remedy for dental pain, toothaches, sore gums, and mouth ulcers. Its germicidal properties make it a valuable natural alternative to synthetic dental products, as recommended by the American Dental Association.

7. Cancer Prevention

Eugenol, a key component in clove, possesses strong anticarcinogenic properties. Regular consumption can control the progression of lung cancer, breast cancer, and ovarian cancer, especially in their early stages.

8. Respiratory Support

In times of a tough pandemic, keeping cloves handy can provide relief for breathing difficulties. For bronchitis and asthma patients, breathing in the scent of cloves or inhaling the fumes from hot water with cloves can open clogged airways and ease breathing. Adding two drops of clove oil to tea can also help.

9. Boosting Blood Circulation

Adding cloves to your daily diet can trigger metabolic activity and regulate body temperature. Rich in antioxidants, cloves can also purify the blood and provide a glowing complexion.

Conclusion

Cloves are far more than just a flavorful spice. They offer a multitude of health benefits, from digestion to bone health, immunity, and even cancer prevention. While it is important to use them in moderation as part of a balanced diet, incorporating cloves into your regular diet can bring significant health advantages. So, next time you go food shopping, don’t forget to pick up a pack of cloves!