10 health benefits of cloves and how to take them

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

Cloves (also known as Kanafuru or Zobo pepper) are the dried flower buds of the clove tree and have been used for centuries in cooking and traditional medicine.

They offer a range of health benefits due to their high antioxidant content and other beneficial compounds. Here are some of the benefits of cloves:

1. Rich in antioxidants

Cloves are high in antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and protect cells from damage.

2. Cloves help with digestion

Cloves can help improve digestion and reduce bloating and indigestion.

3. Cloves contain antimicrobial properties

The active ingredient in cloves, eugenol, has been shown to have antimicrobial properties, which can help fight bacteria and other harmful microorganisms.

4. Cloves promote bone health

Cloves are a good source of manganese, which is important for bone health.

5. Cloves help regulate blood sugar

Some studies have shown that cloves may help regulate blood sugar levels, making them potentially beneficial for people with diabetes.

6. Cloves may reduce inflammation

The compounds in cloves have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the body.

7. Cloves have pain-relieving properties

Cloves have been used traditionally to help relieve toothaches and other types of pain due to their pain-relieving properties.

8. Cloves promote heart health

Some studies have shown that cloves may help improve heart health by reducing cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

9. They help with respiratory issues

Cloves have been traditionally used to help with respiratory issues such as cough, asthma, and bronchitis due to their expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties.

10. Cloves have cancer-fighting properties

Some studies have shown that the compounds in cloves may have cancer-fighting properties and may help inhibit the growth of cancer cells.

In conclusion, cloves offer a range of health benefits and can be a great addition to your diet.

How cloves can be ingested, taken or prepared?

Whole Cloves: You can use whole cloves to study an onion or an orange for a decorative touch. They can also be added to dishes like stews, soups, and curries for a burst of flavour. Just remember to remove the whole cloves before serving, as biting into one can be quite intense.

Ground Cloves: Ground cloves can be added directly to your recipe. A little goes a long way, so use them sparingly. Ground cloves are great for baking, especially in recipes like gingerbread, pumpkin pie, and apple desserts. They also pair well with other warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.

Infused Oil: Gently heat whole cloves in oil to infuse the oil with their flavour. This can be used as a base for stir-fries, marinades, or salad dressings.

Roasted Garlic Cloves: Roasting garlic cloves in the oven with olive oil and salt brings out their natural sweetness. Once roasted, they can be spread on bread, added to mashed potatoes, or used as a base for a delicious garlic sauce.

Remember, cloves have a strong flavour, so it’s best to use them in moderation. Experiment with different recipes and cooking methods to find the perfect balance for your taste.