Cloves are one of the most versatile spices out there and are frequently used in desserts, meats, and savory dishes around the world. They're also incredibly good for you, as they contain powerful anti-microbial properties that can kill bacteria, fungi, and viruses that cause illness and disease.
When used in cooking, cloves are an effective flavor booster too, enhancing the natural flavors of your food so you get all the nutrition it has to offer without overpowering it with spices or sauces.
Cloves nutrition value:
According to Nutrition Data, just one tbsp (6g) of ground clove contains:
- calories: 21
- carbohydrates: 4 g
- protein: 0.4 g
- dietary fiber: 2.2 g
- vitamin A: 34.4 IU
- vitamin C: 5.3 mg
- vitamin K: 9.2 mcg
- folate: 6 mcg
- choline: 2.4 mg
- calcium: 42 mg
- magnesium: 17.2 mg
- iron: 0.6 mg
- phosphorus: 6.8 mg
- potassium: 71.6 mg
- sodium: 15.8 mg
14 Amazing health benefits of cloves:
Here are 14 amazing health benefits of cloves you probably didn't know about.
1. Antiseptic properties:
Cloves have been used for centuries as an antiseptic. All you need to do is add a few drops of clove oil to a cotton ball and apply it to the affected area.
The natural properties of cloves will help kill bacteria and heal the skin. These same properties can also be applied topically to disinfect bandages, which means that clove oil can be used for some pretty cool DIY tricks!
If you're struggling with sore muscles, take a bath in epsom salts mixed with one cup of ground cloves. You'll get relief from your pain and experience relief from your stress as well!
2. Kills parasites:
If you're looking for a natural way to kill parasites, cloves may be the answer. Cloves contain eugenol, a compound with antibacterial and antifungal properties. When taken internally, cloves can help kill off parasitic infections.
Additionally, cloves can be used topically to treat skin parasites. To use cloves for parasite control, add a few drops of clove oil to a glass of water and drink it down. You can also apply clove oil directly to the skin.
However, don't apply the oil undiluted as it could irritate your skin. The benefits are not limited to killing parasites either; they also include reducing pain and fighting colds.
Eugenol has been shown to reduce pain by releasing endorphins in your brain that activate nerves in your body.
Some studies have found that eugenol could also fight colds by suppressing cells called phagocytes which might otherwise trigger an immune response in your system which leads to inflammation.
In addition to these health benefits, using cloves could lower blood sugar levels and is even linked to a decrease in certain types of cancer!
While there's still much research being done on this plant, it's clear that there are many reasons why clove should be added to our spice rack.
3. Anti-inflammatory effects:
One of the most impressive health benefits of cloves is their anti-inflammatory effects. Cloves contain a compound called eugenol, which has been shown to reduce inflammation and pain.
Eugenol has also been shown to be effective at reducing the symptoms of arthritis. It does this by inhibiting the production of inflammatory molecules like prostaglandins, leukotrienes, histamines and cytokines.
It may also have a protective effect on cartilage tissues by boosting the production of chondroitin sulfate and proteoglycans. Another possible mechanism for clove's anti-inflammatory properties could be that it decreases tumor necrosis factor (TNF) production in cells.
In addition, the spice is able to block activity of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes that produce prostaglandins responsible for pain and inflammation.
These COX inhibitors are often prescribed as pharmaceutical drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
4. Improves breathing during sleep:
Do you often find yourself waking up in the middle of the night, gasping for air? If so, you may be suffering from sleep apnea.
This breathing disorder can be caused by a variety of factors, including obesity, smoking, and chronic sinusitis.
However, one simple home remedy that may help is to add a few cloves to your nightly routine. That's right - this spice isn't just for cooking!
In addition to relieving symptoms of insomnia, the antioxidant compounds found in cloves also reduce inflammation throughout the body and act as a natural digestive aid.
5. Boosts immune system:
The volatile oils found in cloves stimulate your immune system and provide powerful antimicrobial properties to keep you healthy when fighting off germs during cold season.
Studies have shown that clove oil mixed with tea tree oil kills MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) bacteria better than standard antibiotics.
These oils are so potent that they're even able to combat viruses like influenza and herpes, which can be very difficult to treat with other methods.
6. Reduces blood pressure:
Regular consumption of ground cloves has been shown to significantly lower blood pressure levels in people who suffer from hypertension or other cardiovascular problems.
Cloves contain an essential oil called eugenol, which is known to relax the muscles and arteries while simultaneously boosting the circulatory system.
They work well as an alternative treatment for patients who refuse traditional medications or simply want another option.
7. Lowers blood sugar levels:
If you have diabetes, you know that managing your blood sugar levels is vital to your health. High blood sugar can lead to serious complications like heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage.
While there are many medications available to help control blood sugar, cloves may also be effective. Studies show that the essential oils in clove extract (eugenol) can reduce glucose in rats with induced type-2 diabetes.
Eugenol works by activating the enzyme adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which is known for its role in regulating glucose metabolism.
Cloves may be a great addition to your treatment plan if you struggle with high blood sugar levels!
8. Reduces symptoms of colds and flu:
If you're looking for a natural way to ease the symptoms of colds and flu, look no further than cloves. This spice has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, and recent research has shown that it can be effective in reducing the severity of colds and flu.
If you have a sore throat, make a cup of hot tea with honey and add some crushed cloves. Cloves will numb your throat while simultaneously providing relief from your fever, pain, and congestion.
9. Potent antibacterial agent:
Cloves are often used as a spice in cooking, but did you know that they also have potent antibacterial properties?
A 2009 study found that cloves were effective against a variety of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
The compounds eugenol and carvacrol, which are found in cloves, are thought to be responsible for the antibacterial activity.
In fact, another study from 2011 showed that both eugenol and carvacrol were more effective than many commercial antibiotics at inhibiting E. coli growth.
These findings suggest that clove oil may provide an alternative treatment for bacterial infections such as UTIs or ear infections. Cloves may also protect against dental decay.
A 2005 study by Indian researchers found that chewing on three cloves after every meal was associated with a significantly lower risk of developing tooth decay.
What's more, animal studies show that swallowing whole cloves can increase antioxidant levels in the mouth for up to six hours, helping prevent oral malodor (or bad breath).
And finally, researchers believe that topical application of oils containing clove extract might help treat skin wounds such as ulcers and leg sores caused by diabetes.
10. Benefits of cloves for fertility:
If you're looking to boost your fertility, consider adding cloves to your diet. Cloves are packed with nutrients that can help improve your reproductive health.
For example, they're a good source of iron, which is essential for the production of healthy red blood cells. They also contain eugenol, a compound that has been shown to improve blood flow to the uterus and increase the chances of implantation.
Plus, cloves are thought to help balance hormone levels and reduce stress, both of which can impact fertility. You can boil one or two whole cloves in water and drink it as a tea twice daily.
It's important to use distilled water as tap water may have bacteria that will interfere with this treatment. You may want to consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet or health regimen if you're pregnant or breastfeeding.
11. Benefits of cloves for hair growth:
- Cloves are loaded with antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage and may promote hair growth.
- Antioxidants in cloves may also help improve scalp circulation, which can encourage hair growth.
- Cloves contain eugenol, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe the scalp and reduce dandruff.
- Eugenol is also known to stimulate hair follicles and has been shown to be effective against fungal infections like seborrheic dermatitis.
- A little clove oil rubbed on the scalp before bedtime might just be what you need!
12. Relieve anxiety and depression:
If you're struggling with anxiety or depression, cloves may be able to help. Cloves contain a compound called eugenol, which has been shown to act as an antidepressant.
Eugenol can also help to relieve anxiety by reducing stress hormones in the body. Additionally, cloves are full of antioxidants, which can help to protect your brain from damage and improve your mood.
Drinking cloves water is an easy and delicious way to get the benefits of this powerful spice.
13. Fight diabetes:
Diabetes is a condition characterized by high blood sugar levels. According to the American Diabetes Association, clove water can help fight diabetes by helping to lower blood sugar levels.
Cloves are also a good source of fiber, which can help regulate digestion and blood sugar levels. In addition, cloves contain antioxidants that can help protect the body against damage caused by free radicals.
These antioxidants have been shown to have antibacterial properties as well. Drinking clove water regularly can lead to better gut health and provide relief from bloating and constipation because it contains natural laxatives such as ginger, caraway, coriander, peppermint and fennel seed extract.
14. Benefits of cloves for weight loss:
When it comes to weight loss, cloves may be able to help. This is because they can help boost metabolism and also reduce inflammation.
In addition, cloves can also help regulate blood sugar levels, which can be helpful if you are trying to lose weight.
Furthermore, cloves contain fiber and antioxidants, both of which are important for good health. Finally, drinking cloves water can also help increase satiety, which can prevent overeating.
What are the health benefits of cloves water?
Cloves are little pieces of nature's pure beauty, and they're chock-full of antioxidants that can help you reach your health goals more quickly than ever before. Just take a look at this list of clove water benefits! These amazing little spices can help you live healthier and happier as soon as you begin to add them to your life on a regular basis. Health benefits of drinking cloves water include:
- Cloves are a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage and may boost your immune system.
- Cloves also contain eugenol, a compound with anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
- Drinking cloves water can help to soothe an upset stomach and may even help to relieve nausea and vomiting.
- Cloves may also help to lower blood sugar levels, making them a good choice for people with diabetes.
- And because clove oil is used in some mouthwashes and toothpastes, it may reduce plaque buildup on teeth by killing bacteria that contribute to gum disease.
- Overall, if you drink clove water regularly you'll be getting plenty of health benefits without feeling any negative side effects!
How to make cloves tea?
To prepare cloves tea, you just need to follow these simple steps:
- Fill a teapot or small saucepan with fresh cold water. Bring water to a gentle boil.
- Meanwhile, place cloves in a tea ball or tea infuser.
- Once water reaches a boiling point, remove from heat and let it cool briefly. Pour over tea ball or infuser.
- Allow cloves to steep for 3-5 minutes, depending on desired strength of flavor.
- Remove the tea ball or infuser after steeping time has elapsed and pour into your favorite mug.
- Add honey to taste for sweetness, if desired.
- Enjoy!
Conclusion
When it comes to spices, cloves often get overshadowed by ginger, cinnamon, and turmeric. But cloves are worth paying attention to, especially when it comes to your health. It contain potent antioxidants that help strengthen the immune system. These antioxidants also work as a natural antibiotic in the body, preventing illness and infection.
