Cloves are a spice that can add extra flavor to various dishes. They go well with pasta sauce and can be included in homemade muesli mixes. You can even make tea with cloves! But did you know that using cloves in your food is good for your health too? Here are four health benefits of cloves.
What Are Cloves?
Cloves are tiny, dried flower buds that come from the clove tree. They have a strong and slightly spicy flavor, similar to cinnamon but more intense. You can buy them in whole form or as a powder. For the tastiest results, cloves are often mixed with cinnamon and nutmeg. Apart from being rich in vitamins and minerals like iron, calcium, vitamin A, and potassium, cloves offer additional advantages that you may not be aware of.
1. Pain Relief
For a long time, people have been using cloves to help with pain, especially when they have a toothache. Cloves have something in them called eugenol, which gives them their special smell. Eugenol can make you feel less pain, like a medicine. That’s why cloves can help make your toothache feel better.
2. Antibacterial
Cloves have a great advantage – they can kill bacteria and other tiny organisms. When you use clove oil, it fights against certain bacteria that lead to diarrhea or fatigue. Using a mouthwash with cloves can reduce the amount of bacteria in your mouth and prevent plaque buildup.
3. Liver Protection
Cloves have antioxidants called eugenol that protect the liver from failing. Eating dishes with cloves can also benefit your kidneys. However, it’s important to eat cloves in moderation. Consuming excessive amounts of cloves can harm your liver due to too much eugenol.
4. Blood Sugar
A while back, scientists studied a substance called nigericin found in cloves to see what it does to human cells. They discovered that nigericin makes cells that produce insulin produce even more of it. Insulin is responsible for controlling our blood sugar levels. This means that cloves can also help regulate your blood sugar levels. So, when you’re cooking, consider adding some cloves to your meal. It will not only enhance the taste but also provide you with unexpected health advantages.
Also Refer : CAN YOU LEARN TO ENJOY CERTAIN FOODS?
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