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by Meenakshi Nagdevelast updated - Medically reviewed by Vanessa Voltolina (MS, RD)
Cloves, the aromatic flower buds of the Syzygium aromaticum tree, aren’t just a favorite in Asian cuisines; they’re a powerhouse of health benefits. Known for their distinct flavor and rich history that dates back to the 13th century, cloves were once a symbol of luxury that sparked wars over their monopoly. Beyond their role in cooking, cloves are celebrated in traditional medicine for their impressive medicinal properties. They are touted for their ability to detoxify the body, with specific benefits of clove water for women and the benefits of chewing cloves. From improving digestion to serving as a natural remedy for various health concerns, the enduring value of cloves is clear. In this blog, we delve deep into the intriguing world of cloves, highlighting their historical significance, nutritional content, and the broad spectrum of health advantages they offer, including tips on how to make clove water.
What are Cloves?
Cloves are the small, aromatic flower buds of the evergreen clove tree (Syzygium aromaticum). Available both whole and ground, cloves are known for their intense flavor and are widely used in cooking, particularly in Asian cuisine. Beyond their culinary uses, cloves have been valued in traditional medicine for their health benefits. They are often added to holiday dishes, desserts, and beverages for their warm, spicy taste. [1]
Watch Video: 8 Interesting Benefits Of Cloves
8 Interesting Benefits And Uses Of Cloves | Organic Facts
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Nutrition Facts Spices, cloves, groundServing Size : Nutrient Value Water [g] 9.87 Energy 274 Energy [kJ] 1145 Protein [g] 5.97 Total lipid (fat) [g] 13 Ash [g] 5.63 Carbohydrate, by difference [g] 65.53 Fiber, total dietary [g] 33.9 Sugars, total including NLEA [g] 2.38 Sucrose [g] 0.02 Glucose (dextrose) [g] 1.14 Fructose [g] 1.07 Galactose [g] 0.15 Calcium, Ca [mg] 632 Iron, Fe [mg] 11.83 Magnesium, Mg [mg] 259 Phosphorus, P [mg] 104 Potassium, K [mg] 1020 Sodium, Na [mg] 277 Zinc, Zn [mg] 2.32 Copper, Cu [mg] 0.37 Manganese, Mn [mg] 60.13 Selenium, Se [µg] 7.2 Vitamin C, total ascorbic acid [mg] 0.2 Thiamin [mg] 0.16 Riboflavin [mg] 0.22 Niacin [mg] 1.56 Pantothenic acid [mg] 0.51 Vitamin B-6 [mg] 0.39 Folate, total [µg] 25 Folate, food [µg] 25 Folate, DFE [µg] 25 Choline, total [mg] 37.4 Betaine [mg] 1.4 Vitamin A, RAE [µg] 8 Carotene, beta [µg] 45 Cryptoxanthin, beta [µg] 103 Vitamin A, IU [IU] 160 Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) [mg] 8.82 Vitamin K (phylloquinone) [µg] 141.8 Fatty acids, total saturated [g] 3.95 6:0 [g] 0.01 8:0 [g] 0.03 10:0 [g] 0.13 12:0 [g] 0.04 14:0 [g] 0.26 15:0 [g] 0.02 16:0 [g] 1.86 17:0 [g] 0.04 18:0 [g] 0.68 20:0 [g] 0.19 22:0 [g] 0.18 24:0 [g] 0.49 Fatty acids, total monounsaturated [g] 1.39 16:1 [g] 0.03 16:1 c [g] 0.03 18:1 [g] 0.99 18:1 c [g] 0.78 20:1 [g] 0.36 22:1 [g] 0.02 22:1 c [g] 0.02 Fatty acids, total polyunsaturated [g] 3.61 18:2 [g] 2.66 18:2 n-6 c,c [g] 2.56 18:2 CLAs [g] 0.06 18:3 [g] 0.59 18:3 n-3 c,c,c (ALA) [g] 0.59 20:2 n-6 c,c [g] 0.02 20:3 [g] 0.01 20:3 n-6 [g] 0.01 20:4 [g] 0.1 20:5 n-3 (EPA) [g] 0.01 22:4 [g] 0.06 22:5 n-3 (DPA) [g] 0.18 Fatty acids, total trans [g] 0.25 Fatty acids, total trans-monoenoic [g] 0.21 18:1 t [g] 0.21 18:2 t not further defined [g] 0.04 Fatty acids, total trans-polyenoic [g] 0.04 Phytosterols [mg] 256 Tryptophan [g] 0.03 Threonine [g] 0.18 Isoleucine [g] 0.24 Leucine [g] 0.4 Lysine [g] 0.37 Methionine [g] 0.08 Cystine [g] 0.07 Phenylalanine [g] 0.23 Tyrosine [g] 0.19 Valine [g] 0.34 Arginine [g] 0.32 Histidine [g] 0.13 Alanine [g] 0.29 Aspartic acid [g] 0.6 Glutamic acid [g] 0.56 Glycine [g] 0.28 Proline [g] 0.39 Serine [g] 0.24 Sources include : USDA [3]
Cloves Nutrition Facts
According to the USDA FoodData Central, cloves are packed with nutrients, including carbohydrates, protein, dietary fiber, and energy. They are rich in essential minerals like potassium, calcium, magnesium, and sodium, and loaded with vitamins such as vitamin E, folate, and niacin. Additionally, cloves contain iron, zinc, vitamin C, and vitamins A and K. While cloves offer numerous health benefits, including supporting liver health and stabilizing blood sugar levels, the small amounts typically used in dishes mean these benefits are delivered in modest doses. Nonetheless, the use of cloves, particularly in forms like clove oil and clove powder, adds both flavor and nutritional value to foods and traditional remedies. [4]
Health Benefits of Cloves
Packed with nutrients and bioactive compounds, cloves are a small spice with mighty benefits. Even a pinch can enhance your health in numerous ways, from improving gastrointestinal health to offering antibacterial protection and supporting liver function.
Can Help Boost Gastrointestinal Health
Cloves possess anesthetic properties that can soothe nausea and vomiting, making them a gentle yet effective remedy for stomach issues. Additionally, the essential oil derived from cloves is known to boost the production of gastric mucus, a crucial barrier protecting the stomach lining against harsh digestive acids. An animal study found that clove essential oil increased the production of gastric mucus, protecting the stomach lining from the corrosive effects of digestive acids. [5] [6] [7]
Antibacterial Properties
Renowned for their robust antibacterial properties, cloves are a powerhouse in the fight against infections. They have been shown to thwart the growth of various human pathogens, including E. coli, thanks to their potent antimicrobial properties. In a test-tube experiment, clove essential oil was found to eliminate three common types of bacteria, including E. coli, known for its role in food poisoning. [8] [9]
Potentially Helps in Liver Protection
Loaded with antioxidants, cloves provide a defensive shield for vital organs, particularly the liver. The eugenol in clove extracts offers hepatoprotective qualities that help maintain liver health, especially important as our body ages and natural detox processes slow down. In an animal study, clove extract improved liver function and reduced inflammation. Another small study on humans suggested that eugenol supplements could reduce glutathione-S-transferases (GSTs) levels, enzymes linked to detoxification and often considered a marker of liver health. [10] [11]
A Possible Ally in Managing Diabetes
Cloves are emerging as a promising ally in managing diabetes. They help stabilize blood sugar levels, demonstrating significant anti-diabetic properties that support a balanced diet. An animal study showed that clove extract helped stabilize blood sugar levels in diabetic mice. Additionally, a study on rabbits found that clove supplementation exhibited anti-diabetic properties, potentially aiding in managing hyperleptinaemia in type 2 diabetes. [12] [13] [14]
Can Help in Bone Preservation
The hydro-alcoholic extracts of cloves, rich in phenolic compounds like eugenol, flavones, and flavonoids, are thought to help maintain bone density and strength, providing a natural boost for those concerned about osteoporosis. Studies have suggested that these extracts may help preserve bone density and mineral content, as well as increase the tensile strength of bones in cases of osteoporosis. [15]
Might Improve Anti-inflammatory and Oral Health
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Clove is an herb in which people use various parts of the plant, including the dried buds, stems, and leaves to make medicine.
In the realm of traditional medicine, cloves have long been regarded as a potent aphrodisiac. Ongoing research confirms their potential to boost sexual health, reinforcing ancient wisdom with modern science. Experiments on clove and nutmeg extracts showed positive results in increasing sexual behavior and testosterone levels in male mice. Another study suggested that lower doses of clove extract may have an androgenic effect. [19] [20]
You can buy good quality whole cloves online or at your local supermarket. They are best stored in tiny spice glasses or steel containers in a cool, dry place where they can be kept for months. Fresh cloves are potent in flavor, so make sure you use it sparingly.
