Health Benefits of Cloves

clove benefits

Benefits of cloves have been known for ages. Most of us know clove for its aromatic properties, but do you know this dried flower bud of clove tree works magic on health? Yes, research proves that clove is a beneficial herb that can help fight you several health problems. Grown in tropical climates of India and Sri Lanka, clove belongs to the dry-warm group to which belongs another medicinal and aromatic herb - cinnamon (I will write about cinnamon soon).  Personally, we use clove in tea. In my family, it is primarily known for its benefits in fighting cold.

The most popular use of clove is in cuisines world over as a spice and a lesser common use is as food preservative. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, clove is a great natural product for health.

Great for teeth
One of the most common benefits of clove is for toothache. As clove works as an antiseptic, clove oil may be applied to the gum to relieve tooth ache. You may even apply the whole clove on the aching side between the teeth if you do not have the oil. Another use of clove is as a mouthwash. It is regarded as safe and effective mouth wash for bad breath. Besides, it is used for pain control during dental work. This means the next time you visit a dentist for a tooth problem, take cloves with you - may be you will not have to bear the pain associated with the tooth procedure.

Works Magic for Skin
Regular application of clove mixture on face keeps it from acne, blemishes or scars, thanks to its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antibacterial, analgesic properties. Clove oil comprises eugenol, a substance having antibacterial properties. However, avoid undiluted use of clove oil, as it has burning properties. When mixed with a skin friendly carrier oil, such as grapeseed oil, clove oil can help cure emerging or existing breakouts. Clove oil can also help improve complexion when 1 tbs of clove oil is blended with 1 teaspoon of honey. Mix the solution with 3 drops of fresh lemon juice and apply on your face for a better glowing complexion.

clove health benefits

Fights Allergy
One of the lesser known clove benefits is its use in relieving running nose or allergy symptoms, especially if you are a victim of exposure to cold. If yours is just a mild common cold problem, just smelling the clove will help. However, some studies claim that clove oil could cause an allergic skin reaction, such as burning sensation, lower blood sugar levels and higher risk of bleeding. Studies are also under way to establish the use of clove as a bactericide or fungicide in post-harvest applications.

benefits of clove oil

Ear aches
One of the unknown benefits of clove oil is that it can alleviate ear ache and reduce infection. Method to use: dilute clove oil in carrier oil. Make sure you do not use water. Place the solution on a cotton ball and use it inside the ear canal. The pain will subside within a few minutes. Due to its antifungal, antibacterial, antiseptic, antiviral properties, clove oil is a great remedy for aches and pains.

Helps Digestion
For people experiencing frequent digestion problems, clove is a magic herb. It stimulates digestive system and can help stomach ulcers. However, if the problem is associated with hemorrhoids or constipation, clove might not be the right solution. Mixing clove oil with an edible apple puree can help fight food poisoning. Research  claims clove oil helps suppress growth of listeria that may be linked to food-borne illness.

Fights cancer
Clove oil uses are still being explored. However, clove oil holds promise as a cancer fighting agent.Research is still under way in this regard. So it should be used under the guidance of a medical practitioner.

Clove or clove oil is undoubtedly a great herb for health. But too much use of clove may not be good for health. Though clove benefits health, it is better to seek guidance of a doctor before starting a therapy on your own.

DISCLAIMER
This article is not a substitute for medical advice.

References
http://www.homeopathy.com.pk/kitchen-herbs/clove-health-benefits-medical-uses.php
http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-251-CLOVE.aspx?activeIngredientId=251&activeIngredientName=CLOVE
http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20543580_5,00.html
http://www.ncsu.edu/bioresources/BioRes_02/BioRes_02_2_265_269_Alma_ENK_CloveOil_Turkish.pdf
https://www.lib.umn.edu/bell/tradeproducts/cloves

Image credit
1.http://www.stepintomygreenworld.com/wp-content/gallery/cloves/clovesfinal7low.png
2.http://consciouslifenews.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/clove-675x240.jpg
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