What Is Clove?
Clove was traditionally used as a food preserver before the advent of refrigeration. It keeps food from going bad and reduces food-borne illnesses because it has antiseptic and anti-parasitic properties. Later on, the medicinal properties of clove were discovered and clove has been used for its benefits in soothing digestion and decreasing gas and bloating. Clove can also be used as an oil a topical pain reliever and an antiseptic.
Exploring The Key Health Benefits of Clove
As mentioned, clove is beneficial to digestive health. It helps to keep things circulating and is packed with fibre which helps decrease gas build up and bloating. Clove tea can make for a nice digestif after meals. Food-grade clove products are also beneficial to dental health and oral hygiene. On a nutrient level, cloves contain manganese, this mineral helps manage the enzymes responsible for repairing bones and making hormones. This mineral also has antioxidant benefits which can further protect your body from free radical damage and help with anti-aging. Cloves are also an excellent source of vitamin K.
Aside from its being filled with beneficial nutrients, the active properties in cloves offer antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties both when it's ingested or applied topically as an oil.
Shopping For Quality Clove Supplements
Clove can be purchased as a loose herb, spice or essential oil. The loose herb can be made into a tea for topical application or internal use. You may also see clove combined with other herbs in a tea to soothe digestion. The essential oil of clove is a highly concentrated substance, when using essential oils, especially in sensitive areas, be sure to test the oil first on a small area and dilute the oil properly with a carrier oil for topical application. It's important to note that essential oils aren't safe for internal use.
Cautions & Considerations To The Benefits of Clove
Essential oils are toxic when taken internally, so never ingest clove oil or other essential oils. Prolonged use of topical clove oil may lead to gum damage. Clove may cause an allergic reaction when used topically or internally.
