Taking Advantage Of The Health Benefits Of Cloves

Cloves are the aromatic flower buds of the clove tree. 

They are native to the Spice Islands near China, cloves spread throughout Europe and Asia during the late middle ages as an important part of local cuisine. 

Cloves are available throughout the year owing to different harvest seasons in different countries.

Today, cloves remain an important spice that gives many dishes special kick and also serve as herbs which can cure many diseases.

Cloves can be used whole or ground.

People often include ground cloves in spice mixes and whole cloves in recipes to add depth and flavor to a wide variety of foods. 

Cloves are low in calories but rich source of manganese and an otherwise insignificant source of nutrients.

It is also a good source of fiber which serves as source for different nutritional benefits. 

These small dark brown pods are used to spice up curries, season meats, enrich sauces and even flavor spiced-baked foods. 

Cloves are a great source of beta-carotene, which helps give them their rich brown color. 

The carotene family of pigments is important antioxidants and pro-vitamins. 

Carotene pigments can convert into vitamin A, an important nutrient for keeping your eyes healthy.

Some health benefits of cloves include reduced inflammation, thereby it helps in reducing the risk of diseases such as arthritis and helping to manage symptoms.

According to a 2018 review, clove oil, and specifically the constituent Eugenol, shows advantages over potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate, and other chemical food preservatives in terms of antimicrobial activity, safety, and aroma, making it worthy of consideration as a substitute food preservative.

Medical experts noted that cloves are full of antioxidants, compounds which help the body to fight free radicals that damage the body cells and reduce risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.

Report also shows that cloves may promote better liver function. 

Some trials have shown that the Eugenol found in cloves can help reduce signs of liver cirrhosis and fatty liver disease. 

Cloves have been used in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine to strengthen the immune system, reduce inflammation and aid digestion. 

Clove oil is used to kill parasites and repel insects as it contains Eugenol, a powerful germicide, as well as caryophyllene, which has antimicrobial properties. 

Clove oil is perhaps best known as a remedy for toothache and dental pain. 

The antibacterial properties of clove may help reduce oral bacteria that can lead to the development of plague, gingivitis, and cavities.

As beneficial as cloves are many Nigerians are yet to take advantage of it because they lack knowledge of what it entails and its numerous health benefits.

It behooves relevant stakeholders in the health sector to embark on an aggressive campaign on this medicinal plant to enable people take advantage of the health benefits it has.

Media organisations can partner health institution on regular awareness on clove and its advantages.

Titilayo Kupoliyi