Madagascar clove, also known as clove, is an aromatic herb derived from the Caryophillus aromaticus tree, native to the Moluccan Islands. It is widely used as a spice in cooking due to its intense flavor and aroma. However, due to its power, moderate use is recommended. Explore its properties and benefits, and discover how to combine it in your dishes.
Properties of cloves
- It has carminative properties which helps reduce gases through an oily substance, which gives the characteristic aroma to cloves, called eugenol.
- It is astringent in nature.
- It contains flavonoids, which reduce blood sugar levels.
- Anesthetic and antibacterial widely used in dentistry in America , they act as a mild anesthetic and antibacterial .
Benefits of Madagascar cloves
In the digestive system
It is used to relieve flatulence , it is considered a digestive par excellence. It is used in cases of loss of appetite, it is used to treat vomiting and dizziness problems, it stops diarrhea, and it also expels the so-called intestinal worms.
Respiratory diseases
It is considered an expectorant and anti-inflammatory , so it is used in treatments to control bronchitis, coughs and colds. Madagascar clove infusions are ideal for counteracting conditions called altitude sickness, moor sickness, or mountain sickness, caused by changes in the heights to which climbers, skiers or tourists are exposed.
Other common uses
- Madagascar clove is used by dentists, when combined with zinc oxide they form a compound used to fill dental gaps caused by cavities.
- It is also used as an analgesic, ideal for toothache and at the same time as an oral disinfectant.
- Cloves are closely linked to the alcoholic beverage industry, providing aroma and flavor to wines.
How to include cloves in meals?
In sweet dishes it is used in cakes, cookies, among others, and in savory recipes it is often used in sauces, meats, and purees. Cloves are included in many recipes according to the presentations:
ground cloves
It is ideal for making cookies and seasoned breads. It provides a special touch in infusions, yogurts, juices and smoothies.
The whole clove
It is used in recipes such as creams, sauces, and as a dressing on salads. It is used whole and then extracted before serving the dish. Its flavor when chewed can be unpleasant to the palate, but when removed, a particular flavor and aroma remains in the food that causes distinction in any dish.
To use clove as local oral anesthesia.
Clove relieves dental pain. Place a piece on the affected area to take advantage of its anesthetic properties. Although it provides temporary relief, it is not a substitute for professional advice or proper dental treatment.
Madagascar clove is a spice that brightens meals. Use it either in powder or whole!
