Cloves, the small but potent spice commonly used in cooking, have been revered for centuries not only for their distinct flavor but also for their impressive health benefits. Known scientifically as Syzygium aromaticum, cloves are the dried flower buds of a tree native to Southeast Asia. Whether in your kitchen or your medicine cabinet, cloves are packed with powerful compounds that can help improve your overall well-being.
In this blog, we’ll explore the scientifically proven benefits of cloves, as well as some emerging claims that are still being studied. By the end of this post, you’ll have a full understanding of how this spice can contribute to your health.
able of Contents:
- What Are Cloves?
- Scientifically Proven Benefits of Cloves
- Rich in Antioxidants
- Supports Digestive Health
- Helps Fight Infections
- Improves Oral Health
- Regulates Blood Sugar
- Enhances Liver Function
- Reduces Inflammation
- May Aid in Weight Loss
- Unproven Claims and Emerging Research
- Improves Memory and Cognitive Function
- Fights Cancer
- How to Incorporate Cloves into Your Diet
- Conclusion: The Bottom Line on Cloves
What Are Cloves?
Cloves are the dried flower buds of the clove tree, Syzygium aromaticum. These small, aromatic buds are harvested before they bloom, then dried to create the spice that’s commonly used in cooking and traditional medicine. Rich in compounds like eugenol, flavonoids, and tannins, cloves have been used for centuries in various cultures for their medicinal properties.
In addition to their use in flavoring food and drinks, cloves are also used in essential oils, teas, and supplements for their health benefits. Their distinct flavor profile—spicy, sweet, and slightly bitter—makes them a popular addition to both sweet and savory dishes.
Scientifically Proven Benefits of Cloves
Cloves have long been celebrated for their medicinal properties. Here are some of the most significant, scientifically supported benefits of cloves:
1. Rich in Antioxidants
Cloves are packed with antioxidants, which help neutralize free radicals in the body. Free radicals can cause oxidative stress, a condition that accelerates aging and increases the risk of chronic diseases, including cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.
- What the Science Says: Research published in Food Chemistry indicates that cloves have a high antioxidant capacity, thanks to compounds like eugenol and flavonoids. These antioxidants help protect your body’s cells from oxidative damage and support overall health.
2. Supports Digestive Health
Cloves have long been used in traditional medicine to treat digestive issues. They can help alleviate symptoms like nausea, bloating, and indigestion by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes and improving the function of the gastrointestinal system.
- What the Science Says: A study in The Journal of Food Science found that cloves can help stimulate gastric secretions, which aids in digestion. Additionally, cloves have been shown to have carminative properties, helping to relieve gas and bloating.
3. Helps Fight Infections
Cloves have natural antimicrobial properties, making them effective at fighting off bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Eugenol, the main active compound in cloves, has been shown to inhibit the growth of various pathogens.
- What the Science Says: A review in Phytomedicine highlighted cloves’ antimicrobial activity, noting that they can be effective in fighting infections like oral bacteria, fungal infections, and even viral illnesses. Cloves are often used in dental products and mouthwashes for this reason.
4. Improves Oral Health
Due to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, cloves can significantly improve oral health. They help reduce gum disease, cavities, and bad breath, making them a common ingredient in oral hygiene products like toothpaste and mouthwash.
- What the Science Says: Research published in The Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology suggests that cloves can be effective in reducing plaque buildup, gingivitis, and toothache. Clove oil is often used as a natural remedy for tooth pain and to prevent infections in the mouth.
5. Regulates Blood Sugar
Cloves may help manage blood sugar levels, which is particularly beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those at risk for the condition. Some studies suggest that cloves may increase insulin sensitivity, helping the body use glucose more effectively.
- What the Science Says: A study in The Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition found that cloves can help regulate blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity and lowering fasting blood glucose levels. This makes cloves a potentially helpful addition to a diabetes management plan.
6. Enhances Liver Function
Cloves are known to support liver health by promoting the detoxification process. The antioxidants in cloves help protect the liver from oxidative stress and damage caused by toxins, heavy metals, and alcohol.
- What the Science Says: Research published in Toxicology Reports indicates that clove extract may help protect the liver from damage caused by toxins and oxidative stress. This makes cloves a potential ally in maintaining liver health and function.
7. Reduces Inflammation
Cloves have potent anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation is linked to a wide range of health issues, including arthritis, heart disease, and even cancer.
- What the Science Says: A study in Inflammation Research found that cloves can significantly reduce markers of inflammation in the body. The anti-inflammatory properties of cloves may help alleviate symptoms of conditions like arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
8. May Aid in Weight Loss
While more research is needed, some studies suggest that cloves may assist in weight loss by increasing metabolism and reducing fat accumulation.
- What the Science Says: A study published in Food & Function found that clove extract could help reduce body fat and increase fat burning in rats. While these results are promising, more research is needed in humans to confirm cloves’ weight-loss benefits.
Unproven Claims and Emerging Research
In addition to the scientifically supported benefits, cloves are also claimed to offer other health benefits, though these claims are still being investigated. Here are a few emerging claims that are not yet fully supported by research:
1. Improves Memory and Cognitive Function
Some proponents believe that cloves may help improve memory and cognitive function, particularly in older adults. This is due to their antioxidant content and potential neuroprotective effects.
- Emerging Research: Preliminary studies suggest that eugenol, the active compound in cloves, may have neuroprotective effects. However, more clinical research is needed to fully understand cloves’ impact on memory and cognitive function.
2. Fights Cancer
Cloves have been suggested as a natural remedy for cancer due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Some studies indicate that cloves may help inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
- Emerging Research: Research published in Food & Chemical Toxicology suggests that compounds in cloves, particularly eugenol, may have anticancer effects by inducing apoptosis (cell death) in cancer cells. However, this research is still in early stages, and further studies are needed to confirm cloves’ potential as a cancer-fighting agent.
How to Incorporate Cloves into Your Diet
Cloves can easily be incorporated into your daily routine in a variety of ways:
- Spice Up Your Dishes: Add ground cloves to baked goods, curries, soups, or stews for a rich, aromatic flavor.
- Clove Tea: Steep whole cloves in hot water to make a soothing tea that can aid digestion and provide antioxidant benefits.
- Clove Oil: Use clove oil for oral health, skin care, or massage, but always dilute it with a carrier oil before use.
- Clove Supplements: If you don’t enjoy the flavor of cloves, consider taking a clove supplement to reap the benefits of this spice.
Read also: 9 Proven benefits of vitamin B12! and 3 not so proven claims!
