Clove / Lavang / Kirambu / Laung is an evergreen tree in the family Myrtaceae, native to Indonesia with the aromatic flower buds known as cloves. The clove tree grows up to 8–12 metres (26–39 ft) tall, with large leaves and crimson flowers grouped in terminal clusters. The flower buds initially have a pale hue, gradually turn green, then transition to a bright red when ready for harvest. The plant is commercially harvested in Indonesia, as well as in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Comoro Islands, Madagascar, Seychelles, and Tanzania.
Cloves – spicy, warming, stimulant – is strongly antiseptic, relieves pain, controls nausea and vomiting, improves digestion, protects against intestinal parasites. Clove oil contains a wide range of bioactive compounds, including eugenol, β-caryophyllene, eugenol, eugenin, and oleanolic acid. Eugenol is one of the most powerful antiseptics. Clove oil, even in strong dilution, is active against the main test cultures – E. coli, staphylococcus, streptococcus.
Uses:
- Flower buds – dried and used as a spice.
- The buds are chewed after meals to freshen the breath .
- Clove stimulates appetite, aids digestion and has antiseptic properties.
- Clove oil is used in dentistry as an antiseptic and pain reliever for toothaches and other types of pain.
- Clove has been used in alternative medicine as a possibly effective aid in treating premature ejaculation, when it is combined with other ingredients and applied to the outer skin of the penis before sexual intercourse.
- The oil is sometimes used externally for dermatomycosis of the feet.
- Clove is used as a flavoring or fragrance in other products such as toothpaste, soaps, and cosmetics.
- Clove essential oil is also used in aromatherapy.
Cautions: Clove essential oil is very potent and requires careful application under the supervision of a specialist and after an allergy test. May cause skin irritation and gum irritation. It is advisable to dilute it with base oil. Consult your doctor in case if you have: liver disease, a bleeding or blood clotting disorder such as hemophilia, a weak immune system, plant or food allergies.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: The use of clove as a flavoring agent in foods is considered safe during pregnancy. However, it is not known whether clove used as medicine will harm an unborn baby. It is not known whether clove passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this product without medical advice if you are pregnant or breast-feeding a baby.