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Clove oil is traditionally used for curing toothache pain, boosting immunity, stress relief, skin care, and as an insecticide.
Clove oil is obtained by steam distillation of clove buds, leaves, and stems, and has a wide range of applications, including:
- Toothpaste
- Foods
- Beverages
- Cosmetics
- Perfumes
- Soaps
- Relaxation therapies
- Insecticides
- Painting products
Clove is an excellent source of nutrition because it is high in antioxidants.
10 most common benefits of clove oil
- May cure toothache pain: Clove oil is primarily known for its use in dentistry as a traditional toothache pain treatment. It contains eugenol, a natural antimicrobial and pain reliever that is found in cinnamon. Clove oil is also used to treat bad breath and boost oral health, as well as in mouth rinses and toothpaste. Studies show that clove oil is effective at killing bacteria and may help fight gum diseases.
- Antioxidants: Clove oil's high antioxidant content can help prevent cellular aging. The use of clove oil in cancer research is under consideration.
- Immunity booster: Practitioners of Chinese medicine state that clove oil boosts the immune system's strength by improving white blood cell function and blood circulation in the body.
- Home remedies: Clove oil is used in a variety of home remedies to treat diarrhea, bad breath, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, and flatulence. It is a popular remedy against intestinal helminths.
- Stress reliever: Clove essential oil is an excellent stress reliever, whose benefit can be attributed to the oil's aphrodisiac properties.
- Clove essential oil stimulates the mind and alleviates mental exhaustion and fatigue. This oil refreshes the mind and stimulates brain function when taken orally in sufficient quantities. It also induces sleep, making it an excellent treatment for people suffering from insomnia.
- According to some research, clove essential oil can help treat neurological disorders, such as memory loss, anxiety, and depression.
- Pain management: Clove essential oil is well-known for its use in musculoskeletal system pain relief blends. Clove bud oil can be used in a massage oil blend or as a balm to help relieve symptoms of arthritis, sprains, strains, and muscle pain, as well as rheumatism.
- Insecticide: Eugenol, the active ingredient in clove oil, repels insects (such as ants) and pests (such as mites, ticks, and spiders). Eugenol's antifungal properties have been shown to prevent and control some fungal diseases in plants.
- Skincare: Clove oil is used in the skincare industry to treat acne, provide anti-aging benefits, rejuvenate the face, moisturize dry skin and lighten blemishes.
- Alleviates respiratory problems: Clove oil is one of the best natural remedies for clearing nasal passages and respiratory disorders, such as cough, cold, bronchitis, asthma, sinusitis, tuberculosis, and sore throats due to its anti-inflammatory and cooling properties.
- Blood pressure, heart health, and cancer: Eugenol may help dilate major arteries, relieving excess blood pressure. Thus, clove oil can effectively address high blood pressure. It may prevent platelets in the blood from adhering together.
While the results of the studies are promising, most of the studies were conducted in the laboratory and have not been replicated in humans.
To summarize, the therapeutic properties of clove essential oil include:
- Antioxidants
- Analgesic (reduces pain sensation)
- Anthelmintic (kills intestinal parasites)
- Antimicrobial and antiseptic
- Antineuralgic (counteracts neuralgia)
- Carminative (relieves flatulence, easing abdominal pain and bloating)
- Spasmolytic (eases muscle spasm)
Clove oil's antimicrobial, antifungal, antiseptic, antiviral, aphrodisiac, and stimulating properties contribute to its health benefits.
What makes clove oil so beneficial?
Clove oil contains a diverse range of phytochemicals, such as:
Eugenol
- Antioxidant and antimicrobial properties
- Has a strong pungent aroma that is both sweet and spicy
- Used in germicides and mouthwashes
- Used as sweetener or intensifier
- Could be used in the synthesis of vanillin
Beta-caryophyllene
Possess a warm, woody, and peppery aroma
Used for pain, inflammation, and anxiety management
Eugenyl acetate
Antioxidant with a sweet, woody, floral, and spicy aroma
Used for the floral notes in perfumes
Eugenol is the dominant compound in clove bud oil, typically accounting for 70 to 95 percent of its composition, which makes using clove oil beneficial.
Are there any side effects of clove oil?
Cloves, like most other foods, should be consumed in moderation. Excessive consumption can result in bleeding, mucosal membrane irritation, sensitivity issues, and allergies. There is no evidence that cloves are safe for pregnant or lactating women. There has been little research on the benefits and side effects of cloves, but it is said that two to three cloves per day pose no risk. However, it is best to consult with a doctor first if including its supplements in the diet.
The clove cigarettes available in the markets are claimed to be a healthier way to kick nicotine addiction. However, this is not true. Clove cigarettes also contain nicotine. Additionally, direct inhalation of clove oil into the lungs may result in lung irritation and damage to lung tissue. Hence, clove cigarettes are not recommended to substitute regular ones.
