Clove buds are the flower buds of the clove tree, an evergreen tree. It has a sweet and aromatic flavor, and because of this, cloves have been used as a spice in cooking and baking, as well as an essential oil. Apart from its culinary uses, cloves have various health benefits too. The compounds found in cloves have been shown to have various medicinal properties for several health conditions. Traditionally, cloves have been used for treating toothaches, coughs, asthma, and more. Below, we outline these benefits in detail:
Has strong antimicrobial properties Clove buds are known to have strong antimicrobial properties. In fact, several studies support this. According to a test-tube study, it was found that clove essential oil can be used to effectively kill three common types of bacteria, including E.coli, while another study in 2005 concluded that eugenol, which is a major compound in cloves, may be considered as a possible antifungal agent.
These suggest that due to their strong antimicrobial properties, cloves can be used for treating various bacterial infections such as oral thrush, athlete’s foot, vaginal yeast infections, and more that can cause several health issues.
Has strong antioxidant properties Studies have shown that clove buds contain a compound known as eugenol and Vitamin C, both of which are great natural antioxidants. Antioxidants can reduce oxidative stress in our body, which, over time, can contribute significantly to several chronic diseases such as heart problems, cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, and many more.
Today, chronic diseases such as the ones mentioned above are widely common across the globe, among people of all ages. Cloves, along with other herbs and essential oil, may be able to reduce the risk of developing such diseases, thanks to their strong antioxidant properties.
Has anti-cancer properties Various researches have suggested that compounds found in cloves have anti-cancer properties, and thus help in preventing cancer. Cancer is one of the deadliest diseases today, affecting millions all over the world. According to a 2014 test-tube study, it was found that clove extract can stop tumors from growing, while also killing cancer cells.
Another test-tube study found that concentrated clove oil could kill off about 80 percent of cancer cells in the esophagus. These studies all support the ability of cloves in fighting and protecting against various types of cancer.
Since cloves are great sources of antioxidants, they fight inflammation, thus helping us fight against cancer cells. Half a teaspoon of ground clove has higher antioxidant content than half a cup of blueberries, which are known for their antioxidant properties.
May be able to give you a stronger liver Again, the high antioxidant content of cloves comes into play here. Our liver is one of the most important organs in our body, as it filters the blood coming from our digestive tract before it gets passed on to the rest of our body. By decreasing oxidative stress, cloves can help make sure that our liver functions properly.
Apart from its antioxidative properties, the eugenol content of cloves could prove to be very useful in developing a strong and healthy liver. There are studies that can back this up too. According to a study, it was found that when subjects consumed eugenol supplements for one week, their GST levels were decreased. GST is a detoxification enzyme, whose high levels is often an indication of liver disease.
May be useful in treating various dental and oral issues Cloves may be effective in the treatment of several dental and oral issues too. According to a 2012 study, it was found that clove oil and its molecules could effectively prevent dental erosion caused by acidic beverages. This means that cloves can be used for preventing cavities, much like fluoride.
Many people get rid of a toothache simply by placing a few whole cloves in their mouths and moistening them with their saliva. After some time, the cloves are then crushed using the teeth. The oil, which is released, which contains eugenol, helps in fighting the pain.
May help improve bone health Clove buds may also be useful in improving bone health. Various studies have shown that compounds found in cloves can help preserve bone mass. For instance, in a 2012 animal study, it was found that clove extract that has high eugenol content could help in alleviating the symptoms of osteoporosis while also improving bone density and strength.
Osteoporosis is a common condition caused by low bone mass and may increase the risk of bone fractures and breaks in affected individuals.
May help in regulating blood sugar Several types of research have pointed to the potential of cloves in the regulation of blood sugar levels. In one animal study, it was found that clove extract could control the increase of blood sugar levels in mice with diabetes.
Due to their nigericin content, cloves can help in improving the secretion of insulin and improving the health and function of cells that produce insulin. This stresses the importance of cloves as part of a balanced, healthy diet.
The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Neither Sixth Scents nor its products are intended for the purpose of diagnosing, treating, curing, or preventing any disease. If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition, consult your physician before using these products.