Ufuoma Uvomata: Cloves Have So Many Health Benefits

Cloves are one of those things our mums know about but never properly introduced us to. God knows when my mother came to me with those tiny things and asked me to eat them, I looked at her like she was crazy.

She actually tried to get me to include them in my diet for a long time. I went to visit her recently and I complained about my teeth hurting. She recommended I eat them, and to my surprise, they helped.

Of course, I had to Google what exactly it was I had just put into my body, and what I found was really exciting.

When I think of the healthiest Nigerian foods, pepper soup is number one on the list. The healthiest Nigerian drink would be zobo. And yes, they both contain cloves.

So here is everything you need to know about the numerous health benefits of cloves.

Better digestion
The benefits of better digestion translate into so many other benefits, including weight loss, lowered cholesterol, better sleep, increased energy and stamina.

Prevent cancer
According to research by scientists from the University of Minnesota, China’s Capital Medical University, and the University of Pittsburg in a series of experiments, clove extracts have been confirmed to halt the activity and growth of a variety of cancer cells.

Protect your liver
Cloves are high in antioxidants, which help to keep the liver healthy and reverse damage over time.

Manage diabetes
Cloves help to manage diabetes by keeping your blood sugar levels in check. They are also known to promote the production of insulin.

Keep bones strong
The tiny nail-shaped spices are rich in manganese, vitamin K, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining bone health.

Boost immunity
The high amounts of antioxidants in cloves aid the immune system in fighting off oxidative damage and free radicals. The spice contains eugenol, which helps to ease infections and fight disease-causing bacteria in the body.

Keep teeth clean and strong
Clove oil has been proven to reduce the bacteria in the mouth that cause gum disease, and helps create a balanced oral biome. It reduces gum swelling and irritation and helps remineralise teeth against acids that can erode dentin.

Cure headaches
The eugenol present in cloves has remarkable pain-relieving abilities. Clove oil can get rid of headaches when inhaled or rubbed on the affected area.

Clear acne
The anti-microbial & anti-fungal properties in cloves fights skin infections, including acne. Learn how to cook with cloves and efficiently add them to your diet. You can buy cloves in Nigeria at your local market or you can buy cloves online.