The buds of the evergreen shrub have long been used as an aromatic seasoning. We are talking about cloves, which are native to the Moluccas Islands. An exotic tree with leathery leaves not only provides culinary experts with an extraordinary spicy ingredient, but is also popular in medicine. From this article you will learn about the dangers and benefits of cloves and various ways to use them.

Benefits of cloves

Most housewives keep buds of a tropical plant in the kitchen only as a seasoning. And sometimes they don’t even realize what the health benefits and harms of the spice (cloves) are. To use spices for various diseases, you only need to properly prepare a decoction, drink, or simply chew it.

Benefits of the spice:

• effective remedy against colds;
• it is an excellent antiseptic;
• destroys dangerous bacteria;
• reduces pain syndrome and spasms;
• promotes healing of small wounds on the skin;
• regulates the gastrointestinal tract and fights decreased appetite;
• relieves toothache and not pleasant smell from mouth;
• strengthens bone tissue and blood vessels;
• prevents development cancer cells;
• very calming nervous system;
• a good tonic;
• helps remove excess fluid from the body;
• has diaphoretic properties;
• can replace the effect of aspirin (the latter irritates the stomach when consumed and may not be suitable for everyone);
• fights the inflammatory process in the body;
• helps quit smoking;
• reduces cravings for alcohol;
• activates erogenous zones;
• normalizes menstrual cycle;
• treats infertility;
• increases brain performance;
• relieves hiccups;
• treats eye inflammation;
• helps reduce pain during contractions;
• fights pressure changes.

Are there any other harms and benefits of cloves? For example, when preparing dishes, it serves as an indispensable seasoning, and can also soften and improve the taste too much. strong coffee. And when used in salads, the spice absorbs all excess moisture.

Harm

Let's take a closer look at the health benefits and dangers of cloves. We have already talked about the culinary properties of these buds. But you shouldn’t rush to look for recipes for dishes using this spice or start chewing it. It is worth understanding how harmful it is and why.

When to use cloves and clove drinks carefully:

1. It is recommended to use the buds with caution in case of increased stomach acidity, and it is better to avoid them altogether.
2. They can harm a pregnant woman, as they tone the body and can provoke premature birth.
3. It is not recommended when breastfeeding a baby, cloves change the taste of milk, and the baby may refuse to breastfeed.
4. Do not give to children under three years of age.
5. Use carefully when high blood pressure.
6. Should not be given to people with mental disorders.
7. For severe diseases of the heart and blood vessels.
8. Clove oil can cause burns if used incorrectly.
9. It is not recommended for use during menstruation, as cloves thin the blood and may increase bleeding.

Before using the plant in medicinal purposes(and even in culinary) it is necessary to find out and compare the indicators of the harm and health benefits of cloves. And after making sure that there are no contraindications, you can safely begin treatment. For greater safety, you can consult a therapist. It is possible that he will talk in more detail about the benefits and harms of cloves for the body.

How does spice affect the fair sex?

Carnations are of particular value for female body. Why is that? What are the benefits and harms of cloves for a woman’s body? More on this later. To use it, you just need to decide for what purpose it will be used.

The most irreplaceable action cloves, of all those available, reduce pain during contractions. During this period, a woman experiences sensations that simply cannot be compared with anything. Cloves simultaneously activate uterine contractions and relieve pain. For better effect You can drink tea with the spice or add oil from it to the drink. This remedy is good to take to calm nerve cells.

Cloves help fight infertility in women. It strengthens the vaginal walls. Thanks to the content of saponins, adhesions in the tubes that interfere with fertilization are removed. Fights cancer cells in the fertilization organs. It was recorded that after treatment with cloves, conception occurred within 2-3 months. Taking baths with clove infusion helps the body recover faster after childbirth.

Remedies with cloves for the treatment of reproductive organs

Basic recipes for treating the female reproductive organs:

• Basic, classic recipe. To prepare one serving you will need: 4-5 dried buds of royal cloves. Pour a glass of boiling water over them, strain the infusion after 30-45 minutes. Use 10-20 ml at a time. Every day you need to use a fresh infusion, the old one loses its strength.
• You can use an infusion of herbs (uterine cloves, boron uterus, red brush). Take in equal quantities. The method of preparation and consumption is similar classic recipe. For steaming, no more than 10-15 g of the mixture is used.
• If you need to normalize your menstrual cycle, you should add it to the basic recipe. Linden blossom and elecampane with Chernobyl. The same proportions are taken. The method of preparation and use is similar.
• At inflammatory processes You need to add plantain seeds to this spice. This will prevent the development of pregnancy outside the uterus and cure infection, if any. Used for douching. To prepare the infusion, you can use the basic recipe as a basis (the number of plantain seeds and cloves in equal proportions).

Before treatment, it is necessary to consult with a gynecologist and therapist to avoid complications. They will appreciate the benefits and harms of cloves for the woman who came to see them. After all, each organism is individual. It is possible that it is precisely according to your indicators that you are prohibited from using this spice.

Pregnancy and carnation

During pregnancy and breastfeeding, you can drink tea using cloves. Of course, before this you need to weigh all the pros and cons (the benefits and harms of the spice, i.e., cloves, for health are assessed).

For serious colds Antibiotics are contraindicated for pregnant women, but cloves will not cause as much harm to the body. In addition, it contains many useful substances that are necessary for the fetus and mother. But we must remember that clove oil is contraindicated in this case, since it greatly tones the uterus. Only weak infusions, teas and the use of spices for cooking are allowed (but also in moderation).

Cloves for restoring hair beauty

Cloves are also used to restore hair beauty and health. It gives them volume, nourishes the roots and scalp. The plant strengthens hair and prevents hair loss, protects curls during styling. Clove oil is usually used for treatments.

There are four types of oils you can prepare at home:

• To improve the condition of dry hair. To prepare the mask, you will need seed oils of the following plants: jojoba, sesame, grape seeds, pumpkin, cloves. For one-time use (add to shampoo), one drop of the mixture is enough.
• If your hair is prone to oiliness, you should add clove oil and herbal infusion to your shampoo. For one-time use, three drops of each product are enough. Well nourishes the scalp, normalizes oil secretion.
• For hair after perm and bleaching. The clove product is mixed with one of the following oils: peach, almond, grape. A single dose is 5 drops of the mixture. Use no more than twice a week for up to six months.
• For preventive purposes, you can use the following recipe. Ingredients: clove oil, burdock oil and raw chicken yolk. Burdock oil should be 20 times more than from the spice. The mask will help get rid of split ends and protect your hair during styling.

In terms of effectiveness, this method is superior to branded products. If we talk about the benefits and harms of clove spice, we can confidently note that the positive effects of its influence predominate. Such products will not damage your hair.

Weight loss and cloves

Girls always watch their figure. Carnations will come to their aid here too. Oils or scrubs made from it perfectly remove uneven skin and cellulite. 10 procedures are enough. When used as food, metabolism is normalized, and extra pounds are lost.

• Recipe for a weight loss drink. The topic of the benefits and harms of cloves in tea still causes debate. Therefore, before drinking the drink, you need to know its negative aspects (for example, you should not drink it during menstruation, stomach ulcers, high blood pressure). The effect of tea is aimed only at problem areas. To do this, you need to prepare the following mixture: ½ tsp. chopped cloves and ginger, 1 tsp green tea brew. Pour all this over 270 ml of boiling water and leave for up to 45 minutes. Used as a tea infuser. It is advisable to drink without sugar; you can add flower honey or lemon to soften the taste.
• You can prepare oil to improve skin condition. Any product can be used for the base. You need to add 17 g of ground cloves to the oil and leave for at least a day. Apply the finished product to problem areas.

It makes no sense to talk much about the health benefits and harms of cloves (spice) when it comes to its use for cosmetic purposes. There will definitely be no sign of her here negative consequences. Based on the basic (basic) recipes described above and using them correctly, you can only benefit from the buds. You can also add other ingredients, but take into account their combination with other ingredients.

Harm and benefits of cloves for men

If in daily menu If men eat dishes containing cloves, there will be no problems with potency even in old age. You can also simply chew the buds of the plant. This will further enhance the work immune system. Colds will go away, and a smile will win the hearts of girls. This way you can save on expensive products.

Most men are ardent coffee fans. Therefore, if a young man wants, he can add buds to it.

Coffee with cloves

Recipe (for two): 18-20 g ground coffee, clove seeds (2 pcs.), sugar (7 g), water (120-150 g). How to cook: pour sugar into a cuzurka and let it melt slightly over the fire, pour in coffee and add water, let the foam rise up to three times. Remove from heat and add cloves, after one minute add an ice cube (so the sediment will end up at the bottom). Pour only into warm cups. Cloves are added at the very end so that it retains its valuable properties and aroma. Heat It has a detrimental effect on her.

Before you start drinking the drink, it is worth understanding the benefits and harms of coffee with cloves. It is able to normalize muscle tone, blood supply, improve sexual abilities, and sperm motility. But if a man doesn’t like coffee, then you can take a bath with cloves. To do this, five drops of oil per procedure are enough. You need to lie down for at least 15 minutes. And before going to bed, take the following drink: use up to 7 g of cloves for one glass of milk (just boiled). Leave in a thermos for no more than two hours. You can drink the drink in the morning. Before use, you should definitely find out the harms and benefits of cloves with milk. If there is intolerance to one of the components, the drink is cancelled.

The benefits and harms of seasoning (cloves) for children. Deworming recipe

Children's body very different from an adult, so the use of cloves is not very welcome here. Although it can be used to rid a child of worms (this is less dangerous than drugs sold in pharmacies). To prepare the drink, you need to grind 1 part flax seeds and 10 parts clove buds in a coffee grinder. You can infuse it in a glass of milk or water. The mixture is taken at the rate of 2 g per 5 kg of baby’s weight. Clove oil can only be used externally, diluted well, to avoid burns. It helps repel insects (for example, during an evening walk or in nature).

Dried cloves for various diseases

Let's consider the benefits and harms of dried cloves, as well as how it is used for various diseases.

Use Cases aromatic spice for various ailments:

Other uses for cloves

How else can you use this spice? Let's look at the options:

1. Protects against mosquitoes. If you need to protect yourself from these insects on the street, you can use oil or a decoction of the seeds. To eliminate mosquitoes at home, simply insert clove seeds into an orange peel and place the “device” in each room. It is believed that mosquitoes become “blind” from the scent and cannot find where the “victim” is located.
2. Clove infusion lotion for clear skin. Use when washing your face instead of a cosmetic product. Place 3-5 cloves in a glass of boiling water. Cover with a lid for about one hour. You can also use it internally. It will relieve stomach pain and flatulence. You can drink no more than ½ tsp at a time. (up to three times a day).
3. Relieves an asthma attack. Take 5-6 cloves per 0.03 liter of water, boil a little and add honey. Use up to three times a day.
4. To get rid of nausea, you need to mix 1 g of ground cloves with 12 g of honey. Wait until the paste dissolves in your mouth.
5. To relieve pain symptoms with compresses, you can use alcohol infusion: 20 cloves per 200 ml of vodka. Leave for at least a week in a dark place. Keep for no more than 50 minutes. After the compress, it is advisable to wrap the sore spot so that it stays warm.
6. To get rid of headaches, infuse 80 g of cloves in 1 liter of wine for up to 1.5 months. It is advisable to check and shake the bottle periodically. Drink a glass (50 g) before bed. It also normalizes the process of falling asleep.

Knowing the benefits and harms of cloves (seasoning), contraindications and positive effects of its use, you can cure many diseases. Almost all the basic recipes have been listed. If in doubt, it is better to consult a specialist.

How to store?

For seeds to be useful, they must be stored properly. To do this, there must be a container that can be tightly closed. Be careful not to expose to sunlight. If stored incorrectly, it will lose its aroma and beneficial features. You won't be able to cure yourself with these seeds.

How to check the quality of cloves?

You can check the quality of the buds in a simple way: You need to throw a handful into the water. If they drown or float vertically (inflorescence up), then everything is fine. When they are positioned horizontally, such buds are no longer suitable and can be thrown away. They have no essential oils or benefits.

Now you know the benefits and harms of dry cloves. We also looked at options for using this spice. We hope that this information will be helpful.

The first descriptions of the plant go back to ancient treatises two hundred years ago. In nature there are about 300 different types this plant. The homeland of the carnation is North Africa, where its flowers adorn the mountain slopes, meadows and forests. The growing season is two years. Flowers appear on the stems in the second year and form a panicle inflorescence of red, pink, or white.

Formed but not yet opened buds are used in medicine, cooking and cosmetology. Clove oil is produced using the method of dry pressing and distilling the buds of the plant. At the same time it has high performance the presence of eugenol, which gives the liquid the anesthetic and stimulating effects for which it is so valued.

Composition of cloves

100 gr. cloves contain:

Cloves - 14 beneficial properties

1. The ability of cloves to improve the digestion process

   The plant has the ability to activate the secretion of enzymes of the digestive process, which explains its use in cases of excessive accumulation of gases and bloating - flatulence, toxicosis and increased concentration of acid in the stomach. During pregnancy, the plant in the form of an infusion will help with the symptoms of morning sickness. To prepare the infusion, you should take 10-12 dry clove seeds, pour a glass of boiling water, leave for 15 minutes and take before bed and in the morning. Using the infusion, improving muscle contractions of the stomach, not only activates the digestion process, but also has a beneficial effect on its mucous membrane.

2. Antibacterial properties of cloves

   The ability of cloves to have an antibacterial effect was used during cholera epidemics in the Middle Ages. Hands were washed with an infusion of flowers, and dry inflorescences were hung in living quarters. The chemical components of the plant extract make it a fairly powerful antibacterial agent. They give it the ability to resist many pathogenic microorganisms and bacteria. They increase the number of leukocytes that produce antibodies aimed at absorbing dead cells. Ancient treatises of Ayuveda noted among the uses of cloves its properties for strengthening the body’s protective functions from harmful environmental influences.

3. Cloves help with stress

   Cloves, having a pleasant, unobtrusive smell, can reduce the excitement of the nervous system, thereby preventing stressful conditions. Tea with cloves and basil will improve psychological condition, and the essential oils of the plant, relaxing muscle tension, will bring “notes” of harmony and peace to your daily well-being.

4. Help with arthritis pain

   It is possible to relieve pain from inflammatory processes caused by metabolic and degenerative changes in the joint area using applications with the main ingredient being clove essential oil. Napkins soaked in plant oil are applied to the area of ​​inflamed joints, insulated and left until the oil is completely absorbed into the skin. The eugenol contained in the plant oil will have an anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect.

5. The ability of cloves to strengthen bone tissue

   An aqueous-alcohol solution of cloves, as an additional remedy, is often prescribed to people with fractures and bone injuries, and this is justified. The presence of phenolic compounds and its derivatives gives the plant qualities aimed at protection and strength bone tissue. The ability to fill it with useful mineral compounds, which gives positive dynamics during its therapeutic use.

6. Antimutagenic qualities of cloves

   Research positive qualities plants have shown that the substance phenylpropanoids present in its composition is able to resist mutagenic changes in cellular damage and does not allow changes in the genetic code of DNA in experimental rats.

7. Treatment of oral diseases

   In somatology, the plant extract is used in the treatment of gingivitis, an inflammatory process of the gums that manifests itself in the disruption of the integral connection of the tooth and gum, which, as it progresses, can turn into periodontitis. Essential infusions cloves are used in the form of rinses and applications. They eliminate anti-inflammatory processes oral cavity, reduce swelling of the mucous membrane, actively preventing the proliferation of bacteria, while also providing an analgesic effect. In addition, cloves neutralize well bad smell from the mouth, its aromatic qualities are used in the production of many pastes, powders and help maintain oral hygiene.

   Few people know, but cloves will help give your teeth a snow-white appearance. The prepared powder from the raw materials of the plant with the addition of 3 grams of yellow gentian can give you a snow-white smile in three weeks.

8. Antioxidant properties of the plant

   Essential extracts of cloves have proven to have an anticarcinogenic effect. Laboratory studies in this direction have yielded positive results and determined the ability of cloves to protect organs from the effects of free radicals and resist malignant neoplasms in early stages lung cancer.

9. The ability of cloves to lower cholesterol levels

   Research published by the American Heart Association noted the plant's natural ability to stimulate enzymatic activity in the body, allowing the plant's properties to be directed toward reduction in triglyceride levels What are triglycerides and what role do they play in the body? Correct levels and methods of lowering blood triglycerides through medical and folk remedies and lowering blood cholesterol. Daily consumption of 10-12 grams of plant powder in the form of a seasoning can control the formation of cholesterol plaques.

10. Help of cloves for diabetes

    People suffering from the disease diabetes mellitus, should be carried out not only correct image life, but also control your diet. Some of the spices used in the diet can help with this disease, and cloves are one of them. The properties of cloves, due to the presence of eugenol in it, support normal level sugar readings, which is important for diabetics. Traditional medicine recommends drinking a brewed infusion of the plant, prepared from 20 buds per 250 ml of water, three times a day. The course of treatment is six months.

11. Cloves for respiratory diseases

    The plant occupies a leading position as an anti-inflammatory agent and can act as an expectorant during seasonal respiratory diseases. In Ayurveda, cloves are considered a mild spice that can create a warming and relaxing effect.

12. Tonic qualities of the plant

    Nature has endowed almost all spices with aphrodisiac properties. Cloves are no exception to this list. Essential plant vapors used in aroma lamps help restore vital energy, strengthen male strength, sexual desire and stabilize sexual dysfunction in both women and men.

13. Cloves - insect repellent

    Along with medicinal properties, clove essential oils can serve us to repel insects and add freshness to indoor air. Add 6-7 drops of oil to one liter of water and the environmentally friendly product is ready. Not only flies and mosquitoes are afraid of it, but also annoying kitchen ants.

14. Use of cloves for cosmetic purposes

    Among cosmetologists, oil is considered an unrivaled skin care product. oily skin, since it is capable of relieving inflammation and irritation of the upper layer of the epidermis with its antiseptic properties. Having a tonic ability, it improves blood circulation in the skin, restoring its elasticity. It is used to treat purulent rashes and heal small wounds. Clove oil is also used as a hair conditioner by adding a few drops of ether to the rinse water. The clove component can be found in many creams, lotions and balms.

Contraindications to the use of cloves

If you want to use cloves for medicinal and cosmetic purposes, you should be aware of its contraindications:

• Use carefully in case of individual intolerance;
• Pregnant and lactating women are prohibited from using infusions from the plant;
• not recommended for children preschool age;
• with obvious exacerbations peptic ulcer;
• people suffering hypertension and having high blood pressure;

Making clove oil at home

Used by the base olive oil What are the benefits of olive oil and what harm can it cause to our health. 11 incredibly useful properties olive oil for the body. as well as contraindications to its use.. Place 5-7 clove buds into it and boil for 5 minutes, without removing the buds, let the liquid cool. Pour into a suitable container and store in a dark place. When using, heat the oil in a water bath. It is good to add a drop of oil to water for morning and evening washing.

Treatment and recipes with cloves

Before preparing clove infusions, you should know which flowers are suitable for this. A bud that is too dry and brittle does not contain any benefits; it does not contain essential oils. If a flower bud placed in water floats vertically, with its base down, its properties will help, but if, on the contrary, it lies in horizontal position, then there is no benefit to it.

1. Cough

   Hold 3-4 buds of the plant in your mouth until they soften, then chew the seeds and swallow the juice that comes out.

2. At the first manifestations of acute respiratory infections

   Dissolve half a lemon in one liter of water, adding 3-4 buds of the plant. Steam half a tablespoon of clove plant flowers with one glass of boiling water, leave for 10 minutes and take for seven days.

   For uterine and hemorrhoidal bleeding

   Take an infusion of the plant, prepared at the rate of 250 ml of water and one dessert spoon of seeds.

   The same infusion can relieve fainting.

Translated from Latin, carnation means flower of Zeus.

The plant was cultivated in ancient Rome, and it came to Europe only in the 16th century. In Ancient Rome, clove solution was not only used to anoint bodies, but also to wash wounds with it after battles.

In France, the flower was considered noble and received the attention of nobles and kings, and in Belgium it was classified as a plant of the common people. During the French Revolution, members of the nobility carried carnations in their hands while going to the scaffold.

Spanish youths associate the flower with ardent passion and give it to their lovers.

In Soviet times, the carnation flower was the most sought after because of its inexpensive cost. It was given as a gift for almost all holidays.

The famous French perfumes “Fiji” and “Opium” are based on clove oil.

Gardeners all over the world love these plants for their unpretentious qualities and ability to please. color scheme. It also grows in our regions. There are hybrid plant varieties with large inflorescences and unpredictable color shades.

Hello, dear readers!
Do you know the joke about how a wife asked her husband to buy a carnation, and he came with a bouquet? Yes, not all men (and not only them...) are well versed in spices. In today's article I want to talk about this “flower”. The benefits of cloves are such that they should definitely be present in your kitchen!

Personally, as a child, I myself believed that this constant heroine of many spices, herbs and seasonings - healthy cloves made from flowers. In fact, it grows on the clove tree in the form of buds, which are picked before they have time to open. There are about 300 species of such trees in nature, and they grow in Africa.

NB! For us, this spice is a frequent ingredient that appears in recipes for marinades or gingerbread, but nevertheless, the benefits (and harm, but more on that later) of cloves are much broader. She is well known to doctors and cosmetologists. The oil is even squeezed out of it, producing an excellent stimulant and anesthetic.

Composition and beneficial properties of these buds

They look very modest, but if you read the research, you can gasp! The benefits of cloves for the body are similar to the effects of multivitamin complexes.

• Dried “flowers” ​​contain vitamins (retinol, that is, vitamin A; beta-carotene; group B in a solid composition; tocopherol, that is, vitamin E; phylloquinone, also known as vitamin K).
• There are also macro- and microelements (phosphorus, potassium, iron, magnesium, copper, selenium, zinc).
• The health benefits of cloves are also determined by the presence of acids in it (fatty, unsaturated, non-essential and essential, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated).
• There are also nutrients such as ash, tannins, mucus, and glycosides.
• There are also digestible carbohydrates (not only the familiar glucose, but also fructose and sucrose).
• And of course, the benefits of cloves for the body would not be complete without such “clove benefits” as aromatic essential oil. It is this component that is responsible for the aroma of the spice (by the way, it is already 20% of the total mass in cloves). Add not 3 buds to the marinade, as in the recipe, but 5 or 6 - and that’s it, the spice will drown out the smell of all the other spices, and for company - also the vegetables.

NB! As for caloric content, everything is solid here: 323 kcal per 100 g. Another thing is that none of us can eat not only one hundred, even twenty grams of this product at a time!

The main advantages of this plant are...

• This is a well-known (in narrow circles) pain reliever that heals wounds.
• Cloves are also famous for their calming and at the same time tonic properties.
• This is a natural antispasmodic.
• It has diuretic and diaphoretic properties.
• And besides, the fragrant buds have antimicrobial, antiseptic and even antiviral effects.

Uses of cloves

NB! Is it possible for children? Yes, to get rid of worms. But it is better to give babies not the buds, but the seeds of the plant (mixed with flax seeds 1 to 10, at the rate of 3 grams of the mixture per 7 kg of the child’s weight). Another way: to prevent Butuzov from being bitten by mosquitoes, their cheeks and open hands are smeared with clove oil.

Health Recipes

1. Infusion against toxicosis

   Take 10 buds, pour a glass of boiling water over them, let them brew for 15 minutes. Drink morning and evening. And you shouldn’t be afraid that this remedy will irritate the already always dissatisfied “pregnant” stomach - it will improve digestion, positively affecting the mucous membrane.

2. Infusion for diabetes

   Brew 20 buds with 1 glass (250 ml) of water. Let it brew. Drink three times a day for six months.

3. Gynecology, namely uterine bleeding

   Infuse 1 dessert spoon of buds in 1 glass of boiling water. By the way, this remedy also stops hemorrhoidal bleeding.

Harmful properties of cloves

In addition to health benefits, cloves can also cause harm - unless, of course, contraindications are taken into account. And this:

• pregnancy (the spice increases the tone of the uterus), breastfeeding (spoils the taste of milk),
• too young (pediatricians do not recommend giving cloves to infants and preschoolers),
• ulcer during exacerbation,
• hypertension with “off-scale” indicators,
• allergy to this product.

This is such a useful spice! Do you have a bag of cloves in your kitchen? If you grind it (or buy it already ground), you get the perfect seasoning for any meat dishes... I don’t know about you, but now I’ll even add these healthy buds to compotes (with plums or apples it will be perfect). And let them be afraid of colds and viruses!

Cloves are a seasoning that is available to almost every housewife who loves and knows how to cook. But not everyone knows that the beneficial properties of cloves are officially recognized by doctors as helping and healing many different ailments. What unique properties does the seasoning we are used to have, and how can we use it for medicinal purposes?

What are the benefits of cloves?

The healing properties of cloves are due to its powerful vitamin composition, which includes:

• Ascorbic acid;
• Beta carotene;
• Tannins;
• Fatty acid;
• B vitamins;
• Calcium;
• Vitamin E;
• Magnesium;
• Vitamin K;
• Phosphorus;
• Iron.

Cloves contain a special substance - evengol, due to which its beneficial properties are manifested. The substance is contained in the essential oil of the plant, which is why clove oil is used in various industries: pharmacology, cosmetology and dietetics.

The benefits and harms of cloves have long been studied by medical institutes, where it has been proven that the spice has the following effects on the body:

• Pain reliever;
• Diuretic;
• Antimicrobial;
• Antispasmodic;
• Sweatshop;
• Tonic;
• Antifungal and antiviral;
• Anti-stress;
• Carminative;
• Wound healing;
• Anthelmintic.

Cloves are used in dentistry to eliminate various infections and inflammatory processes in the oral cavity. It is enough to lightly chew the spicy buds, and you can eliminate the unpleasant odor from your mouth forever.

Nervous system disorders (insomnia, stressful conditions, mental and physical overload) can also be eliminated with the help of cloves, due to the high content of B vitamins.

In dietetics, the plant is used for weight loss: adding the spice to food normalizes weight and improves metabolism, and clove oil is used for massages and wraps (to get rid of cellulite).

The anti-carcinogenic properties of cloves have been proven - it suppresses the development of cancer cells; it is even planned to create a cure for leukemia based on the spice.

Medicinal properties

The medicinal properties of cloves are determined by their rich chemical composition, thanks to which the spice is used to treat many ailments:

• Inflammatory phenomena in the oral cavity (periodontal disease, caries, pulpitis) and toothache;
• Intestinal diseases (eliminates flatulence, normalizes metabolism);
• Colds, cough, sore throat, runny nose (eliminates viruses and infections, improves immunity).
• Swelling (has a diuretic effect);
• Diseases respiratory tract(restores breathing, improves blood circulation);
• Depression, nervous disorders, anxiety, insomnia;
• Inflammation of the gastric mucosa (improves digestion, cleanses of toxins);
• High blood pressure (normalizes blood pressure);
• Skin diseases (dermatitis, acne, pustules);
• Wound, inflammation, skin irritation (has anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect);
• Headache accompanied by nausea and vomiting (relieves spasms and soothes headaches);
• Eye diseases (has an antibacterial effect);
• Endotoxicosis (a condition that occurs after long-term use medicines or after contact with toxic substances).

Treatment of a number of women's gynecological diseases also cannot do without a spicy plant: it increases the tone of the uterus (intensifies contractions during childbirth), treats frigidity for women, and normalizes the menstrual cycle.

Pathogenic organisms and viruses are very “afraid” of cloves: diphtheria and tubercle bacilli, staphylococci, influenza pathogens and helminths. These properties allow the plant to be used for healing from various intestinal infections, flu, viral diseases.

Cloves in cosmetology

A lot of cosmetic products contain clove oil, which has a rejuvenating, antioxidant and lipolytic effect.

Products based on clove oil treat skin diseases:

• Furunculosis;
• Acne;
• Pustular lesions;
• Bacterial dermatitis.
• Cloves are used for hair - in the form of crushed buds and in the form of oil (the form of use depends on the specific recipe and the purpose of application to the hair). The plant activates the blood vessels of the head, which increases the flow of nutrients to the hair, and also eliminates dandruff and excess oil.

Application in cosmetology:

To give the skin health and shine (as well as for problem skin), baths with the addition of a few drops of clove oil are recommended.
Face mask: mix 5 drops of clove oil with honey, cream and 1 tbsp. spoon of pharmaceutical clay. Apply the product for 10 minutes.
Cosmetic ice (for daily rubbing): dissolve 2 drops of oil in 200 g of water and mix with 6 ml of cosmetic cream.
To treat pustules and boils: gently apply one drop of clove oil to the affected area of ​​skin.
To treat warts, clove oil (2-3 drops) is dissolved in water and applied pointwise to the growths (treatment can last up to a month).

Any available cosmetic product can be enriched by adding a couple of drops of clove oil to it.

In cosmetology, a spicy plant is used to get rid of cellulite: clove oil (4 drops) is added to any base oil (10 ml), and used for anti-cellulite massage and various wraps.

How to use cloves

Decoctions, teas, inhalations, compresses are prepared from cloves for the treatment and prevention of diseases, and ready-made clove oil is also used.

Decoctions and teas are prepared and drunk for a variety of diseases, and are also used as prophylaxis (for the treatment of gynecological diseases, sexual disorders, as a compress for eye and skin diseases and etc.).

Contraindications

Having decided to take advantage of the beneficial properties of cloves in practice, you should strictly monitor the dosages, because... clove oil can cause severe burns, and the buds can cause allergic reactions.

If, after contact with the oil on the skin, the burning sensation continues for more than three minutes, you should immediately wash it off and continue to use it with caution. No more than three drops of oil dissolved in liquid should be used internally - otherwise it can cause burns and irritation of the mucous membrane. Buds can be harmful if there is an individual intolerance to the seasoning.

You should not eat cloves:

• During pregnancy and lactation.
• For ulcers and acute inflammatory processes in the gastrointestinal tract.
• For hypertension, because the plant can aggravate the condition.
• Children under two years old, because Cloves will only cause harm to their still weak stomach.

The benefit of cloves for the body is not only that it relieves obvious physical manifestations of the disease. The spice stimulates the body's reserve forces to fight diseases, strengthens the nervous system and restores peace of mind, which is a guarantee of health for many years.

Clove spice is the unopened dried flower buds of the clove tree. It is one of the common seasonings found in Asian countries such as India, Indonesia, Pakistan, East Africa and others. Since ancient times, it has been a popular flavoring agent for various culinary dishes. Many people know it as one of the ingredients in gingerbread dough or mulled wine. But few people know about the medicinal properties of clove tree buds.

Clove spice description where it grows

It belongs to a family of plants called Myrtleaceae, genus Syzygum. It is an evergreen tree growing in tropical and subtropical climates. The Moluccas Islands are considered its homeland. According to scientists, it was from there that it came to India, Sri Lanka, Madagascar and other regions.

The clove tree itself is a shrub or low tree with leathery, elliptical, dark green leaves.

It blooms with small purple-red flowers collected in half-umbrellas. From a botanical point of view, the fruit is considered a false berry.

Flowering occurs twice a year, giving a good harvest each time. The collected buds are dried in the sun until the smell appears. Drying stops when the buds lose 50 percent of their moisture content. When grinding such buds, a characteristic cracking sound is heard.

The seasoning was brought to Europe by Arab traders in the fourth century. But only in the seventh and eighth centuries it began to be used as a food preservative. Although the cost of growing and producing cloves is not very high, traders need to high price, the place of origin of the spice was kept strictly secret.

Only in the Middle Ages did the Portuguese discover the growing region, and from the 17th century the Dutch gained main control over the clove growing areas. They destroyed plantations of the plant on other islands in order to control the price and maintain control over production and sale.

But in the 18th century, the French managed to export clove seeds and seedlings from the Moluccas to their territories in Mauritania.

Today, the largest suppliers of the spice are Indonesia, Tanzania and Madagascar.

What are the benefits of clove spice?

Despite their small size, clove buds are rich in many beneficial substances. It contains:

Vitamins: K, C, E, group B;

Minerals: calcium, potassium, magnesium, manganese, zinc, iron, phosphorus, sodium, selenium and others;

Carbohydrates;

Essential oil;

Antioxidants.

Fiber can prevent constipation and improve bowel function,

Vitamin C will help strengthen the immune system.

Vitamin K is important for normalizing blood clotting.

Manganese is important element to maintain the functions of the brain and skeletal system.

Antioxidants are compounds that reduce the oxidative effect of free radicals, thereby preventing the development of certain chronic diseases.

A special place is occupied by the presence in the buds essential oil. More than 50 percent of it is a compound called evengol, which can also act as an antioxidant.

Together with other biochemical substances, evengol gives cloves many properties, including:

Hepatoprotective;

Antimicrobial;

Anti-inflammatory.

Clove spice medicinal properties

In addition to their pleasant aroma, cloves are known for their powerful medicinal properties. The earliest recorded use of cloves for medicinal purposes dates back to 240 BC. Local peoples use all parts of the plant for treatment: buds, stems and leaves of the plant.

It has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine in India and China.

To the main medicinal properties This spice can include the following properties:

Antiseptic;

Anti-inflammatory;

Antispasmodic;

Antimicrobial;

Antibacterial;

Diuretics;

Sweatshops;

Painkillers;

Antihelmintic.

It is used for diseases associated with respiratory system, infections digestive system and urinary tract.

One of the few conducted scientific research has shown that the essential oil is effective against bacteria such as streptococci and staphylococci.

Cloves are believed to have a slight antihistamine effect. Tea prepared with cloves was used for treatment hay fever, with nasal congestion and sinusitis.

It has a positive effect on the nervous system, reduces tension, anxiety, and relieves anxiety.

The presence of tannins imparts astringent properties, which can be very beneficial for diarrhea.

The analgesic properties of evengol are used for pain of various origins, including dental pain.

Although no studies have been conducted, it is believed that this property of the spice can be used to prevent premature ejaculation.

Medicinal uses of cloves

Antioxidant and anticarcinogenic properties are of great interest to scientific medicine. Few tests so far have shown that it may be useful in the fight against early-stage lung cancer.

These same properties are ideal for protecting organs from free radical damage, especially the liver.

One of serious illnesses is diabetes, a disease in which the amount of insulin produced by the body is insufficient or not produced at all. Since controlling blood sugar for such patients through diet is Starting point, then the inclusion of foods that can control glucose is of particular interest. Research has shown that cloves may have an effect on blood sugar control.

Cloves use in folk medicine

IN folk medicine Cloves have been used for a variety of ailments, including hernia and diarrhea. It was chewed to prevent bad breath, against bloating and to improve function. gastrointestinal tract generally.

Toothache;

Oral diseases;

Muscle and joint pain, including pain from arthritis and injuries;

For eye diseases;

Low blood pressure;

Poor digestion and liver dysfunction.

It improves digestion by stimulating secretion digestive enzymes, reduces gas formation, stomach irritation, dyspepsia and nausea. Clove buds should be crushed, mixed with honey and taken for digestive disorders.

In gynecology, it is used to stabilize the menstrual cycle.

To overcome the desire for alcohol, you need to put two buds of cloves in your mouth and hold them in your mouth without chewing or swallowing.

There is no scientific evidence to support health benefits for many uses. But it has a centuries-old history of use among many peoples. One way to do this is to chew one or two buds.

For toothache, essential oil is often used, which should be dropped onto a cotton pad and placed on the sore tooth or gum.

You can rub the gums around the sore tooth with ground cloves.

For respiratory diseases, colds, and flu, cloves are added to tea. It is also used as an expectorant for coughs with phlegm.

Clove oil is used to rub and massage sore joints for rheumatism and arthritis.

For wounds and bruises, apply compresses with oil, after diluting it with carrier oil.

To get rid of headaches, grind a few buds and mix with rock salt. Add this mixture to a glass of milk. It will quickly and effectively reduce headaches.

To relieve headaches in climbers, drink 2 cups of clove tea before climbing. This tea will thin the blood and improve oxygen delivery to the brain.

In Asian countries, cloves are considered an aphrodisiac and prevent early orgasm in men.

A mask with cloves, honey and a few drops of lemon juice can help treat acne. Keep the mask on your face for 20 minutes and then wash off.

Instead of store-bought mouth freshener, use cloves. Infuse the buds and other herbs, such as rosemary or mint. This rinse aid will prevent the growth and reproduction of bacteria and eliminate unpleasant odors.

To make a homemade natural air freshener for your home, boil an orange peel with a few cloves, cool and pour into a spray bottle.

To refresh and add a pleasant smell to your linen closet, place the buds on the shelves, wrapping them in fabric.

Clove infusion

For treatment in folk medicine, not only whole or ground clove buds are used, but also infusions, decoctions, alcohol tinctures, and in the form of tea.

To prepare the infusion, take several bottles (about 0.5 teaspoon) and brew a glass of boiling water. Cover with a saucer and let sit for one hour.

The infusion is drunk for digestive disorders, flatulence, bloating, and low blood pressure, 1/2 teaspoon three times a day.

You can use it as a lotion for:

Add to water when taking baths and gargling for colds.

Cloves for asthma

Pour 6 buds of spice into 30 ml of water and bring to a boil. Remove from heat, cool slightly and add no more than one teaspoon of honey. Drink this decoction three times a day.

For vomiting and nausea

Mix ground cloves on the tip of a knife with a small amount of natural honey (about 1 teaspoon) and keep in your mouth until the whole mixture dissolves.

Alcohol tincture of cloves

To make an alcohol tincture, you need to pour 25 buds with 250 ml of vodka and leave for a week in a dark place.

The tincture is used for rubbing or in the form of compresses for pain in muscles and joints, neuralgia. After use, the sore spot should be wrapped in a warm scarf or scarf. The compress can be kept for 30 minutes to one hour.

Headache tincture

A tincture of cloves in dry red wine will help with headaches. To prepare it, pour 100 grams of buds with one liter of wine and leave for one month and a half. Shake the bottle periodically during the infusion process. Strain the finished tincture and drink 30-50 ml. it will help cope with insomnia.

How to store cloves

Cloves can be bought in buds or ground. The buds retain their freshness and beneficial properties longer. Unfortunately, if stored improperly, it can lose its aroma and properties. Therefore, store it in a tightly closed container in a cool, dark place. If storing in a glass jar, make sure it is not exposed to sunlight.

Use of cloves in cooking

Cloves have a unique aroma that is different from other spices. It cannot be confused with any other. It is widely used in Food Industry, adding to flour products, sauces, ketchups, alcoholic drinks, and various mixtures of seasonings.

It should be used in very small quantities, since in large doses it will overwhelm the aroma of other herbs and spices.

In a home forge it is added to:

Homemade syrups;

An orange stuffed with buds is a traditional decoration for Christmas and New Year's table in many countries.

Contraindications for use

Cloves in large quantities are contraindicated in high blood pressure. Clove oil should be handled with extreme caution. If undiluted, it can cause burns and irritation to the skin. Always dilute it with a carrier oil.

The use of essential oils during pregnancy, breastfeeding and small children is prohibited.

Cloves may slow platelet activity, which may interfere with the action of anticoagulant medications. It is phototoxic. Therefore, do not go out into the sun immediately after using the oil.

In large quantities it is contraindicated for:

Exacerbation of stomach and duodenal ulcers;

Exacerbation of gastritis, especially with high acidity.

Particular care should be taken when treating people with mental disorders and individual intolerance.

If you adhere to these rules and take all precautions, then this spice will become not only a culinary seasoning, but also a medicine.