Health and Wellness
Bibhash Lodh, BS News Agency: Eating cloves offers benefits like boosting immunity, improving digestion, supporting oral health (fighting bad breath/gum issues), reducing inflammation, strengthening bones (due to manganese), and potentially helping manage blood sugar, thanks to their rich antioxidant profile (especially eugenol) and essential nutrients, though more human studies are needed for some effects. They act as an expectorant for respiratory health and may protect the liver and stomach lining.
Key Benefits
Rich in Antioxidants: Cloves are packed with antioxidants like eugenol, which fight free radicals, reduce oxidative stress, and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
Boosts Immunity: Their antiviral and antibacterial properties help strengthen the immune system and fight infections.
Improves Oral Health: Antibacterial properties combat mouth bacteria, reduce bad breath, and help with gum infections and toothaches.
Aids Digestion: Stimulates digestive enzymes, easing bloating, gas, and nausea.
Reduces Inflammation: Eugenol has anti-inflammatory effects, beneficial for joint pain and inflammatory conditions.
Supports Bone Health: High in manganese, crucial for bone density and strength, and may help prevent osteoporosis.
Liver Protection: Antioxidants may help protect the liver from damage and reduce inflammation.
Regulates Blood Sugar: May improve insulin sensitivity and slow sugar absorption, though human research is ongoing.
Respiratory Relief: Acts as an expectorant, helping clear mucus and relieve coughs and colds.
May Protect Stomach: May help thicken the protective mucus layer of the stomach lining, reducing ulcers.
How to Consume
Chew a whole clove for fresh breath and toothache relief.
Add ground cloves to foods, teas, or smoothies.
Use clove oil in toothpaste or mouthwash.