- Nutritional Value: Cloves contain various vitamins and minerals, including manganese (essential for brain function and bone health), vitamin K, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. They provide a good amount of fiber. One teaspoon (about 2 grams) of ground cloves contains approximately 6 calories, 1 gram of carbohydrates, and 1 gram of fiber.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Cloves are packed with antioxidants, which are compounds that help reduce oxidative stress and may protect against chronic diseases. They contain a significant amount of eugenol, a potent natural antioxidant. Studies suggest eugenol can be more effective at combating free radicals than vitamin E.
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: Eugenol in cloves has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory effects, which may help manage symptoms of inflammatory conditions like arthritis.
- May Protect Against Cancer: Test-tube studies indicate that clove extract and eugenol may have anticancer properties by inhibiting tumor growth and promoting cancer cell death, particularly in breast and esophageal cancer cells. However, these studies used concentrated amounts, and more research is needed to determine the effects of dietary amounts in humans.
- Antimicrobial Properties: Cloves exhibit antimicrobial properties and can help stop the growth of microorganisms like bacteria and fungi. Clove essential oil has been shown to kill common bacteria, including E. coli, and may combat bacteria contributing to gum disease. A clove-based mouthwash may help reduce plaque and gum inflammation and potentially lower the risk of pneumonia in ventilated patients.
- May Improve Liver Health: Animal studies suggest that eugenol may benefit the liver by improving liver function, reducing inflammation, and decreasing oxidative stress. It might also help reverse signs of liver scarring. However, human research is limited, and high doses of cloves can be harmful to the liver.
- May Help Regulate Blood Sugar: Research indicates that compounds in cloves might help control blood sugar levels by increasing sugar uptake into cells, boosting insulin secretion, and improving the function of insulin-producing cells. Some studies in individuals with and without prediabetes showed reduced post-meal blood glucose levels with clove extract supplementation.
- May Promote Bone Health: Animal studies suggest that eugenol may help improve bone mass. Cloves also contain manganese, which is crucial for bone formation. More human research is necessary to confirm these effects.
- May Reduce Stomach Ulcers: Some research suggests that cloves may help prevent stomach ulcers by promoting the production of protective gastric mucus.
- Pain Relief (Analgesic Properties): Eugenol acts as a natural anesthetic and can help numb and reduce pain, particularly toothaches. Clove oil has been traditionally used for dental pain relief. However, direct application of undiluted clove oil to gums is cautioned as it can be irritating.
- May Improve Breathing: Inhaling steam from cloves boiled in water may help clear stuffy nasal passages.
- May Treat Flu: Traditional Chinese medicine often uses chewing cloves to ease sore throats and coughs.
- Potential Sexual Benefits: Some animal studies suggest cloves may enhance blood flow, increase libido and performance, improve erectile function, and potentially increase sperm count and motility. However, more research in humans is needed, and dosage appears to be a critical factor.
IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS
- While generally safe in small amounts used in cooking, consuming large amounts of cloves or clove oil can lead to adverse effects.
- Clove oil can be irritating to the skin and gums and may cause burning or inflammation.
- High doses of eugenol can be toxic and may cause liver damage, especially in children.
- Cloves might lower blood sugar levels, so individuals with diabetes should use them cautiously, as combining them with diabetes medications could lead to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
- Eugenol can slow blood clotting, so cloves should be used with caution by individuals with bleeding disorders or those taking blood-thinning medications. It’s generally recommended to stop using cloves at least two weeks before scheduled surgery.