Clove is a powerful, aromatic spice that’s found its way into kitchens and medicine cabinets around the world. Best known for its warm, sweet flavor in dishes like pumpkin pie and Indian biryani, clove also hides several lesser-known uses that can be quite beneficial. Here are four secret uses of clove spice that might just make you see this humble spice in a whole new light.
1. Natural Pain Relief for Toothaches
One of the most remarkable properties of clove is its ability to ease pain, particularly in the mouth. This is because cloves contain eugenol, a natural anesthetic and antiseptic compound. If you’re experiencing a toothache, simply placing a whole clove near the sore area can help reduce pain until you can see a dentist. For a stronger effect, you can also dab a little clove oil on a cotton ball and apply it to the affected tooth or gum.
2. Enhance Skin Health
Clove oil, made from the bud of the clove, is full of antioxidants which are perfect for protecting the skin from premature aging and environmental damage. A few drops of clove oil can be mixed with your regular skincare products to boost their effectiveness. Additionally, due to its antimicrobial properties, clove oil can be used to reduce skin inflammation and treat acne. Just be sure to dilute it with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil before applying to the skin to avoid irritation.
3. Natural Insect Repellent
Cloves are a natural insect repellent. The strong aroma that we find pleasantly spicy is not at all appreciated by insects. You can make a natural bug repellent by mixing clove oil with water and spraying it around your home, especially in areas where insects are likely to enter. Alternatively, inserting whole cloves into an orange, commonly known as a pomander, can keep your wardrobe smelling fresh and free of moths.
4. Improving Digestion
Clove has been used in traditional medicine to enhance digestion and relieve digestive upsets, including gas and bloating. The spice stimulates the secretion of digestive enzymes, which can help reduce digestive discomfort. Adding ground clove to your meals can not only spice them up but also aid in the smooth digestion of your food.
Final Thoughts
Clove is more than just a spice for your meals; it’s a versatile, powerful ingredient that can play a significant role in natural health care and home maintenance. Whether it’s providing relief from a toothache, enhancing skin health, repelling insects, or aiding digestion, clove has numerous applications that make it a valuable addition to your pantry. So next time you come across cloves, remember that this small spice packs a mighty punch of benefits!
