Clove that pungent spice is not only a must-have in the Indian kitchen for that quintessential flavour in biriyanis, pulaos and curries but also for your overall well being. Cloves are in fact flower buds from the clove tree packed with all goodness of natural nutrition and loads of health benefits.
Indian traditional medicine Ayurveda recommends intake of clove at least thrice in a week for its abundant anti-inflammatory, anti-viral and anti-diabetic properties for fighting various infections and shielding our bodies from diseases.
Cloves that are a rich source of vitamins C & K, fibre and manganese, are a native to Indonesia and the name is derived from Latin word clavus meaning nail. The best way to derive the benefits is to use them in daily cooking.
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Benefits of Cloves
Improves Digestion
Chewing on cloves regulates digestive issues and aids in prevention of stomach ulcers. The presence of certain compounds in cloves shield the stomach lining by increasing the thickness of gastric mucus thus preventing the invasion of harmful bacteria and formation of ulcers.
Eases Breathing
In these days and times of tough pandemic, always keep cloves handy for treating breathing difficulties. Patients suffering from bronchitis, asthma are often advised to inhale the smell of cloves for instant relief. Put some cloves on a hot pain and inhale the fumes for opening clogged airways and to ease breathing difficulties. Add two drops of clove oil to your tea for cleansing the airways or chew on a piece of clove to soothe your sore throat.
Stimulates Blood Circulation
Adding clove to your daily diet triggers metabolic activity and regulates body temperature. Loaded with antioxidants, cloves can actually purify blood and provide glow to the skin from within. If you are feeling stressed out, rub some warm clove oil on your head, neck and back for instant relief and calm the mood.
Strengthens Teeth
Clove is a proven natural remedy for all your dental problems. Used extensively in toothpastes and other dental products, cloves come with rich antibacterial properties thanks to the presence of eugenol enzyme for protecting the teeth. If you are suffering from severe toothache, put some clove oil on a cotton ball and gently apply it on the affected area. Be careful not to touch the tongue as it may cause a burning sensation. Another quick remedy is to chew on cloves for instant relief.
Reduces Headache
Few people suffer from nagging headaches and this intense pain can interfere with their daily lives. Ayurvedic practitioners recommend inhaling the smell of cloves for reducing the pain caused due to pounding headaches. In a cloth tie a fistful of cloves and keep inhaling its pungent smell. The cooling properties of cloves regulate body temperature, reduce anxiety and bring down the headache.
