If you're wondering what cloves are, they are the dried flower buds of the clove tree (Syzygium aromaticum), prized for their warm aroma and distinctive flavours. The clove has been used in India and other parts of Asia for many centuries. In traditional herbal practices, cloves have been valued for centuries as both a culinary spice and botanical ingredient.
Cloves in Ayurveda
Ayurvedic benefits of cloves
In Ayurveda, cloves are considered to enhance circulation, digestion, and metabolism and help counter stomach disorders such as gas, bloating, and nausea. The essential oil of clove is used as an ingredient in oral hygiene products to promote tooth health and freshen the breath.
The clove contributes to the pungent and astringent tastes. Cloves help pacify Vata and Kapha and increase Pitta.
Cloves naturally contain:
- Essential oils, including eugenol
- Plant-based antioxidant compounds
- Naturally occurring phytonutrients
- Small amounts of vitamins and minerals
Clove oil is extracted from whole cloves and is known for its characteristic aroma and flavour. These naturally occurring compounds contribute to the unique qualities that make cloves a popular ingredient in foods, teas, and traditional wellness practices.
Why Cloves Have Been Valued for Generations
Cloves are widely used in culinary traditions around the world and have long been incorporated into traditional wellness practices.
They are appreciated for their rich, warming flavour, aromatic properties, role in herbal preparations and teas and versatility in cooking and spice blends.
Whether used whole, ground, or infused into beverages, cloves can be an enjoyable addition to a balanced lifestyle.
Ayurvedic uses of cloves
Cloves are used both whole and ground in Ayurvedic cooking. Whole cloves sautéed in ghee with other spices such as cinnamon, bay leaves and peppercorns enhance the flavor of rice and pilafs.
Cloves are an essential ingredient in curry powders and combine well with other Ayurvedic spices such as:
Cloves in Traditional Oral Care Practices
For centuries, cloves have been used in traditional oral care routines because of their distinctive aroma and refreshing qualities.
Common traditional uses include:
- Adding freshness to the breath
- Incorporating into herbal oral care preparations
- Supporting daily oral hygiene routines
How to Use Clove Oil
- Always dilute with a suitable carrier oil
- Use sparingly
- Avoid contact with sensitive tissues
- Follow product instructions carefully
Clove oil is intended for external use unless otherwise directed on the product label.
Cloves and Traditional Digestive Wellness
In Ayurveda and other traditional systems of wellness, cloves have long been included in herbal preparations and spice blends used before or after meals.
Cloves are commonly enjoyed as part of herbal teas, in warming spice blends, in traditional culinary recipes, as an ingredient in digestive herbal formulations.
Their rich flavor and warming nature make them a popular addition to many traditional food preparations.
How to Enjoy Cloves Daily
If you're wondering how to use cloves, there are several simple ways to incorporate them into your daily routine:
Clove Tea
Steep whole cloves in hot water to create a warm and aromatic herbal beverage.
Cooking
Add whole or ground cloves to:
- Rice dishes
- Soups and stews
- Curries
- Spice blends
- Baked goods
Clove Powder
Ground cloves can be added to smoothies, oatmeal, herbal blends, or recipes for additional flavor.
Clove Oil
Use according to product directions for aromatic or topical applications.
Clove Water: A Traditional Herbal Beverage
Clove water is a simple beverage traditionally prepared by steeping cloves in hot water.
How to Prepare Clove Water
- Add 2-3 whole cloves to water.
- Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
- Strain and allow to cool slightly.
- Enjoy warm.
Clove water is appreciated for its warming aroma and distinctive flavor and can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.
Precautions
Cloves are generally recognized as safe when consumed in amounts commonly used in foods.
Keep the following in mind:
- Consume in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
- Clove oil is highly concentrated and should be used according to directions.
- Individuals who are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or under medical supervision should consult a healthcare professional before using concentrated clove products.
- Discontinue use if sensitivity occurs.
Frequently Asked Questions
1.Can I consume cloves daily?
Cloves can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet in culinary amounts. As with any spice, moderation is recommended.
2.Are cloves rich in antioxidants?
Cloves naturally contain plant compounds with antioxidant properties.
3.Can cloves be added to tea?
Yes. Whole or ground cloves are commonly used in herbal teas and traditional beverage preparations.
4.How many cloves can I consume in a day?
There is no established daily requirement for cloves. Most people consume them in amounts commonly used in cooking and beverages.
5.Are cloves used in oral care products?
Yes. Cloves and clove-derived ingredients are commonly used in various oral care products because of their distinctive aroma and flavor.
5.Can cloves be consumed at night?
Yes. Cloves may be enjoyed at any time of day as part of foods, beverages, or herbal tea preparations.
6.What's the best way to use cloves?
Cloves can be used whole, ground, brewed into tea, or incorporated into cooking and baking recipes
Discover how to use cloves in Ayurvedic cooking on our Recipes blog.
© 1999, 2021 Maharishi AyurVeda Products International, Inc. (MAPI). All Rights Reserved. MAPI does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. See additional information.
