Cloves

Cloves are the flower buds of the clove tree, an evergreen also known as Syzygium aromaticum (1Trusted Source).

Found in both whole and ground forms, this versatile spice can be used to season pot roasts, add flavor to hot beverages, and bring spicy warmth to cookies and cakes.

You may know cloves as one of the main ingredients in gingerbread baked goods or a staple spice in Indian cuisine.

Cloves are best known as a sweet and aromatic spice, but they have also been used in traditional medicine.

This article reviews 8 of the most impressive health benefits of eating cloves.

Cloves contain fiber, vitamins, and minerals, so using whole or ground cloves to add flavor to your food can provide some important nutrients.

One teaspoon (2 grams) of ground cloves contains (4Trusted Source):

  • Calories: 6
  • Carbs: 1 gram
  • Fiber: 1 gram
  • Manganese: 55% of the Daily Value (DV)
  • Vitamin K: 2% of the DV

2. High in antioxidants

        Cloves are high in antioxidants, including eugenol, which can help reduce oxidative stress.

3. May help protect against cancer

    Test-tube studies show that the compounds in cloves may reduce cancer cell growth and promote cancer cell death. More research is needed to confirm these effects in humans.

4. Can kill bacteria

   Studies show that cloves may promote oral health, thanks to their antimicrobial properties, which may help kill harmful bacteria.

5. May improve liver health

    Some studies show that cloves and the compounds they contain may help reduce oxidative stress and protect the liver.

6. May help regulate blood sugar

   Test-tube and animal studies have shown that the compounds in cloves may help promote insulin production and lower blood sugar.

7. May promote bone health

  Animal studies show that clove extract and manganese may help increase bone mineral density. More research is needed to confirm these effects.

8. May reduce stomach ulcers

   Some animal studies show that clove extract and clove oil may increase the production of gastric mucus and help protect against stomach ulcers. More research in humans is needed.

The bottom line

Cloves have many potential health benefits, including keeping blood sugar in check and helping block the growth of bacteria.

You can also simmer whole cloves in boiling water for 5–10 minutes to make a soothing cup of clove tea.

Cloves are delicious and may provide many important health benefits.