Cloves are an aromatic spice made from the dried flower buds of a tree by the same name. They are most well-known as a remedy for dental problems. But chewing a couple of cloves a day can benefit your body in a variety of ways. Immunity: Cloves are rich in Vitamin C and K, manganese and antioxidants. Vitamin C and antioxidants both help support your immunity so you can better fight infections. Manganese has been shown to increase the activity of several immune cells, such as the natural killer cells our bodies use to fight viral infections.
Syzygium aromaticum, commonly known as the clove tree. Image {{PD-US-expired}}
Oral Care: The buds have an antimicrobial effect as well, with the essential oil being used as an antiseptic in oral infections. Chewing two cloves in the morning is a great way to strengthen your gums and mouth and inhibit bacteria from growing there.
Digestive Support: In addition, cloves are a great remedy for the digestive system. The oil has an antispasmodic effect which can soothe the gut when you have an upset stomach. It has been shown to increase the production of enzymes involved in digesting food and liver function.
Respiratory Support: Cloves may also be useful with some breathing problems. Although cloves would never be used as a substitute for asthma medication, making a tea from cloves and ginger root can calm the respiratory tract and may provide symptom relief. This is due to the same antispasmodic effect that is seen in the digestive system.
Pain Management: Cloves can be a great headache remedy as well. They contain the chemical eugenol, which has been shown to have pain-relieving and antinflammatory properties. And although there are many types of headaches, chewing on a couple of cloves is generally a safe first-line remedy to try.
Blood/Bone Health: Along with a healthy diet, cloves may also help maintain blood sugar. Test-tube and animal studies have shown that cloves can promots insulin production to lower blood sugar in the body. The minerals and other constituents of the buds are also involved in strong bone formation.
Let us know your experiences using cloves or other natural remedies! While articles like this one can be useful as general information, they are no substitute for an individual medical consultation and should not be taken as medical advice.
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