Clove Flower Bud Extract
The clove tree (Syzygium aromaticum) is a member of the myrtle family and originated in the famous Moluccas, the Indonesian islands between Sulawesi and New Guinea, also known as the Spice Islands. The flower buds of the clove tree are known as cloves in dried form. They have been used for centuries as a seasoning, flavoring agent, and medicinal product. The flower buds of the evergreen tree, which is between ten and 20 meters tall, turn brown when dried and release oil when slightly squeezed. Cloves are also cultivated in Tanzania, Madagascar, Brazil, and other tropical regions worldwide
Clove has been utilized since ancient times
Cloves' history can be traced back to the 3rd century BC, when Chinese physicians highly valued them as remedies. Cloves are meticulously detailed in major works of medieval monastic medicine. Notably, the nun and abbess Hildegard von Bingen (1098-1179) effectively used cloves to treat fever, menstrual cramps, dizziness, and hiccups. Furthermore, cloves were later utilized in treating gum disease, bloating, and bad breath.
Health benefits of Clove
Cloves have multiple benefits beyond just flavoring mulled wine, gingerbread or game dishes. The essential oil found in dried clove flower buds consists mainly of eugenol, a compound with antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. Studies have demonstrated that clove oil is effective against certain antibiotic-resistant germs. It is used to treat bad breath, mouth inflammation, painful denture pressure points, and even as a topical pain reliever. Cloves are also believed to alleviate bloating and cramps, and their eugenol content can aid in digestion.