4. Anti-Inflammatory Potential
Eugenol and other compounds found in cloves have demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity in laboratory research. However, laboratory findings do not necessarily mean that eating cloves will produce the same effects in humans.
How Can You Add Cloves to Your Routine?
There are several simple ways to use cloves:
* Add a small amount of ground cloves to oatmeal.
* Add whole cloves to tea.
* Use cloves when preparing soups or stews.
* Mix a small amount into baked goods.
* Combine them with other warming spices such as cinnamon.
A Word of Caution
More is not necessarily better. Concentrated clove oil is very different from using a small amount of cloves as a culinary spice. Large amounts or concentrated products may cause unwanted effects.
People taking medications, particularly blood-thinning medication, should speak with a healthcare professional before using concentrated clove products.
Final Thoughts
Cloves may be a useful addition to a balanced diet because they contain several interesting plant compounds. But there is no strong evidence that simply eating cloves every day for 30 days will produce dramatic health changes.
The best approach is to use cloves as part of a varied, balanced diet rather than treating them as a cure or replacement for medical treatment.
