Clove is a underrated healing powerhouse that has been utilized for ages. An aromatic flower bud of the Syzygium aromaticum tree, cloves are native to Indonesia and have been revered for their powerful medicinal and culinary properties.
Cloves are classified botanically as:
Kingdom: Plantae
Family: Myrtaceae
Genus: Syzygium
Species: S. aromaticum
In the 16th and 17th centuries, cloves were among Europe's most valuable commodities, to the point it was valued at more than its weight in gold. This spice were so rare and sought-after that merchants would risk their lives on sea and engage in international trade networks to get their hands on them.
The value of this herb was based on those diverse "medicinal and culinary properties" mentioned prior. Let's take look at my favorite clove tea recipe and why cloves, from a medicinal standpoint, should probably be a staple in your kitchen:
Medicinal Properties
- Antioxidant: Cloves are one of the richest sources of polyphenols among spices. Polyphenols are known for their potent antioxidant activity
- Anti-inflammatory: Compounds in cloves, particularly eugenol, have been shown to reduce inflammatory responses in the body
- Blood sugar regulation: Studies suggest that cloves may help control blood sugar levels, potentially benefiting those with diabetes
- Antimicrobial: Cloves have strong antibacterial properties, which may contribute to oral health when used in dental care products
- Digestive health: Cloves have a post-digestive effect that can support digestive processes in the lower gastrointestinal tract
- Liver function: Some research indicates that eugenol in cloves may help improve liver function
- Bone health: The high manganese content in cloves contributes to bone health and may help prevent conditions like osteoporosis
source
As you can see, these tiny nail-shaped marvels can provide some real healing. One of the simpler, more effective methods of consuming cloves is tea.
Recipe
Clove & Cinnamon Tea
Ingredients (2 Servings)
- 2-3 cloves
- 1-2 cinnamon sticks
- 1/4 of an orange peel
- 1/4 of an orange juice
- honey (to taste)
Directions
- Add clove + cinnamon to 1 cup of water and bring to a boil
- Remove from heat
- Add orange peel and orange juice, cover
- Allow to steep for 5 min
Combined with cinnamon and fresh orange, this clove tea is great in the winter time. Its one of my go-tos when my stomach is feeling funny or if I have any preliminary cold symptoms.