Cloves are the unopened fragrant pink flower buds of the evergreen clove tree native to Indonesia. They are one of the most popular spices in the world. In addition to the sweet taste they give to the dishes they are added to, cloves are well known for their medicinal properties.
We at Bright Side decided to share with you the impressive health benefits of eating just 2 cloves a day.
1. They strengthen the immune system.
Cloves are one of the best foods we can ingest for immune support, because they increase the amount of white blood cells in the body, which help us fight off infections. And that’s all thanks to the vitamin C they contain.
2. They improve digestion.
Cloves can be used as a remedy for digestive issues, since they increase the secretion of digestive enzymes. They also reduce nausea. Not to mention that cloves are full of fiber, which promotes digestive health and helps prevent constipation. The best way to treat digestive issues with cloves is to consume them in powder form or honey-roasted.
3. They can relieve toothaches.
This spice also has local anesthetic properties. If you have a toothache, place a clove above the annoying tooth to eliminate the discomfort until you can get to the dentist.
4. They contribute to a healthy liver.
The liver is responsible for detoxifying our bodies and metabolizing the medicines we take. The eugenol present in clove oil improves liver function.
5. They help reduce pain and inflammation in the body.
Eugenol also gives cloves their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. One way to take advantage of this is to use this spice as a headache remedy. You can do this in one of 2 ways: consume them or use them topically. If you prefer to consume them, you can mix clove powder and rock salt with a glass of milk and drink it to relieve your headache. If you want to use it topically, you can soak the cloves in coconut oil and massage your temples to get relief.
6. They are good for your bones and joints.
Cloves contain certain elements like flavonoids, manganese, and eugenol that promote bone and joint health. These substances increase bone density, they are involved in the creation of bone tissue, and they transport healthy minerals to our bones.
7. They have antibacterial properties.
A study conducted at the University of Buenos Aires put cloves to the test against some serious bacteria, like E. coli and staphylococcus. The research showed that clove oil was effective in eliminating these bacteria. There’s even a recipe for an herbal mouthwash made with tea tree oil, cloves, and basil. According to the Department of Periodontics at the KU Leuven University in Belgium, this natural mouthwash can improve gum health and reduce the amount of bacteria and plaque in the mouth after using it for only 21 days.
8. They are full of antioxidants.
Cloves are the number one and most potent dietary source of polyphenols. Polyphenols are micronutrients that we absorb when we eat plants. They have great benefits for our body: they lower cholesterol and blood pressure, improve the function and flexibility of the arteries, and increase longevity.
9. They may help regulate blood sugar.
Cloves are perfect for people with blood sugar problems, like diabetes, because they act like insulin inside the body. They help export the excess sugar from your blood into your cells, restoring the balance, and keeping your blood sugar in check.
10. They slow down blood clotting.
The eugenol found in cloves is known to slow down blood clotting. Just keep in mind that this can react badly with blood thinner medications. Consulting your doctor is necessary before you begin to incorporate more cloves into your diet.
Do you use cloves in your meals? Did you know about their health benefits?
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