Cloves are a spice that is commonly used in cooking. These flower buds come from a type of tropical evergreen tree native to Indonesia. They contain a powerful germicide known as eugenol and caryophyllene, which has antimicrobial properties. In Ayurvedic and Chines medicine, cloves have been used to reduce inflammation, aid in digestion, and boost the immune system.
Here’s exactly why we should give this notable spice a try.
Helps Prevent Cancer
Just 1/2 teaspoon of ground clove is said to contain more antioxidants than 1/2 cup of blueberries, according to Today’s Dietitian. These antioxidants play a role in protecting our cells against free radicals that cause cancer and other chronic diseases.
The result of one laboratory study showed that clove extract can slow down the growth of multiple types of human cancer cells and increase cell death in colon cancer cells.
Furthermore in another study, experts have found that clove essential oil and ethanol extract of clove were both toxic to breast cancer cells.
Helps In Dealing With Inflammation
According to past studies, clove has anti-inflammatory effects that have been found to be helpful in people with arthritis. Add clove into tea or use clove oil as a lotion to fight off inflammation.
Beneficial In Oral Health
Clove can help maintain oral health due to its effectiveness against plaque, gingivitis, and bacteria in the mouth.
Researchers have found that an herbal mouth rinse containing clove, basil, and tea tree oil can help decrease oral inflammation, plaque, and bacteria. This has been found to be more effective than commercially available mouth rinse.
Additionally, one study also that cloves work better at relieving pain associated with toothaches, inflammation, wound healing, and infection than another common option.
Helps Regulate Hunger Levels
Due to its impressive amounts of fiber, cloves can help keep our stomach from growling between, meals. Fiber helps regulate our hunger levels. A teaspoon of cloves can provide our body with a close to a gram of fiber, according to nutritionist Amy Gorin, RDN.
Helps Keep Blood Sugar Levels In Check
Cloves contain manganese, a mineral that can help regulate blood sugar levels. Adding them to meals is one great strategy for keeping blood sugar levels in check.
