Clove – the Natural Super Spice

Centuries ago when this this flower bud was first brewed as a drink it was used to treat gastro intestinal issues. It has the potential to increase the production of digestive enzymes and gastric juices that help combat acidity and can help alleviate vomiting, diarrhea, gastric irritability and stomach pain. Clove is also thought to be effective in the treatment of peptic ulcers as it promotes the secretion of gastric mucus that forms the protective lining of the stomach.

Since cloves are packed with numerous bioactive compounds and volatile oils that aid in clearing toxins from the body, it has become a natural remedy for intestinal worms, fungal infections and ringworm. As an anti-septic mouthwash, it helps remove bacteria, thereby aiding in quick relief from toothache and gum pain as well as freshening the breath.

Drinking a cup of warm clove infusion in the morning can help you decongest and gain quick relief from blocked sinuses. It has a powerful expectorant agent that clears up phlegm and spreads warmth around the sinus area. The natural antipyretic properties of this infusion make it instrumental in breaking fevers and kicking the immune system into high gear. On the other hand, cold clove infusion is an excellent hand sanitiser due to its anti-microbial effect.

The presence of antioxidants in cloves helps the skin stay youthful. In fact, women with heavy breakouts and acne often use clove as an effective facial wash.

Over the years, scientific research about this dried tiny flower bud has unveiled its myriad natural health benefits. Like everything, it should be consumed in moderation as large doses or ingestion of eugenol is both nephrotoxic (poisonous to kidneys) and hepatotoxic (poisonous to liver). If you have a sensitive system or a known allergy to cloves, we recommend speaking to your doctor before adding it to your health regime.