Description
Cloves are one of the highly prized spices, widely recognized all over the world for their medicinal and culinary qualities. They are the “flower buds” from evergreen rain-forest tree. The flower buds are initially pale in color, gradually turn to green, and, finally develop into bright-red clove buds by the time of harvesting.
Culinary Uses
This popular spice has been used in preparation of many regular dishes. Along with other spices like pepper, turmeric, ginger etc. is being used in marinating chicken, fish, and meat. The spice also features in the preparation of soups, barbecue sauces, pickling and as one of the ingredients in curry powders.
Health Benefits
The essential oil, eugenol in this spice has been in therapeutic use in dentistry as a local-anesthetic and antiseptic for teeth and gum. Eugenol also has been found to reduce blood sugar levels in diabetics, but further detailed studies required to establish its benefits. The decoction is sometimes used in treating flatulence and indigestion in traditional medicine preparations. It is also thought to have natural anti-parasite (kills intestinal worms) function. The essential volatile oils functions as a rubefacient, meaning that it irritates the skin and expands the blood vessels.
