Clove (Syzygium aromaticum Myrtaceae)

Other Names: Cloves, Clove Buds

Clove is a tall, slender evergreen tree native to the Moluccas, growing up to 20 meters high. Its flowers form inflorescences and, when allowed to bloom, resemble red-and-white bellflowers. However, the flower buds are typically harvested and dried to produce cloves. Clove trees begin yielding buds at 20 years old and continue for about 50 years.

Parts for Use

Flower Buds

1. Buds are harvested twice yearly, in summer and winter.
2. Cloves are the dried flower buds.

Ingredients

Clove oil primarily contains eugenol, an anesthetic and antiseptic compound. Cloves also include tannins and flavonoids, known antioxidants that may help fight cancer and strengthen vein walls.

Use in Treatment

Cloves are used to treat gastritis and indigestion, while clove oil soothes toothache. Eugenol, the primary active compound, addresses inflammation, bacterial and fungal infections, and pain. Clove oil is a common ingredient in mouthwashes and over-the-counter toothache remedies. A 1999 study confirmed cloves’ effectiveness against bacteria and fungi. In traditional Chinese medicine, cloves treat fungal infections like athlete’s foot. Taiwanese studies indicate eugenol may reduce blood clotting, though this use requires medical supervision due to potential risks. A 1985 study found clove oil relaxes smooth muscles in the lungs and intestines, but excessive eugenol can depress the central nervous system. Cloves are often combined with other herbs to treat bloating, gastritis, indigestion, rheumatic pain, and infections of the ear, nose, throat, and urinary tract.

Cultivation

Clove trees require tropical conditions, either outdoors or in a greenhouse.

Preparation and Dosage

For Internal Use (Gastritis, Indigestion, Rheumatic Pain)

1. Infusion: Use 1–3 grams of cloves daily, steeped in boiling water for 10 minutes, strained, and consumed.

For External Use (Toothache)

1. Whole Cloves or Clove Oil: Chew cloves 3–4 times daily or apply 3 drops of clove oil to a cotton cloth and press on the affected tooth or gums 2–3 times daily. Consult a dentist promptly.

Warnings

1. Consult a healthcare professional before using clove preparations, especially for blood clotting issues.
2. Clove oil capsules must be enteric-coated to resist gastric juices.
3. Dilute clove essential oil with a carrier oil before skin application to prevent burns.
4. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, limit clove intake to amounts typically found in food.
5. Avoid clove preparations if taking anticoagulants, as eugenol may enhance their effects.