Cloves Benefits and Side Effects

Cloves contain a component known as eugenol which is a natural antioxidant. Antioxidants are very important to protect the human body from free radicals or reactive oxygen species (ROS). DNA, proteins, and lipids may be severely damaged because of ROS effects.

Clove bud helps in scavenging these free radical thus protecting the biomolecules against metal ion induced oxidation.

In vitro studies suggest that eugenol is more effective in stopping the oxidative damage caused by free radicals as compared to vitamin E or any other potent antioxidant.

Antioxidants also help protect against diseases caused by oxidative stress like diabetes, heart disease, and chronic inflammation. A study conducted on animal models showed that pre-treatment with clove essential oils decreased the oxidative stress and reduced glutathione levels in the brain. This leads to an improved memory and cognition. The research study published in the journal “Flavour and Fragrance” considered clove as the best natural antioxidant. Cloves also contain Vitamin C which is another antioxidant compound that can help in neutralizing the radicals.

(Read more: Antioxidant rich food)

Other than being an antioxidant, eugenol, the primary component of clove's volatile oils also possesses anti-inflammatory properties. In a preclinical study, it was seen that the addition of clove extract to diets already high in anti-inflammatory components provided quicker relief from inflammatory symptoms. The presence of eugenol in higher amounts also helps in the reduction of pain associated with oedema (swelling due to fluid accumulation in tissue).

Furthermore, cloves also consist of a variety of flavonoids such as kaempferol and rhamnetin which contribute to its anti-inflammatory (and antioxidant) potential

Cloves exhibit potent antibacterial properties against a number of human pathogens. The extracts of clove bud/extract/oil are powerful enough to kill some common infectious bacteria including Pseudomonas and Staphylococcus aureus. Clove extracts are also effective in killing specific bacteria that spread cholera.

According to a study, clove essential oil is potent in killing Escherichia coli. It is basically a bacteria that is responsible for causing problems like cramps, diarrhoea, and fatigue. Earlier lab studies suggest that extracts from clove bud are useful against gram-negative bacteria like Enterobacter, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Salmonella typhi.

Due to the richness of antioxidant properties in cloves, they are the perfect spices for protecting the organs from the effects of free radicals, especially the liver.

In an animal-based study clove oil and eugenol have been claimed to be helpful in relieving fatty liver disease along with improving liver function. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease which is also known as NAFLD is one of the most common causes of liver dysfunction these days. Natural products like clove are increasingly being considered for the treatment of such problems. A study suggested that Syzygium Simile leaves (SSL) can reduce the uptake and accumulation of fats by the liver. Thus, cloves can be used in the anti-NAFLD therapies.

Cloves are one of the most common home remedies for toothache. It has been suggested that eugenol has anaesthetic properties and is responsible for getting rid of the pain. Being an antibacterial, cloves are effective in the treatment of gum-related diseases and problems such as gingivitis and periodontitis. To relieve pain, an entire clove bud is pressed onto the tooth that is affected by the infection. Cloves are used for preparing various formulations like mouthwashes, toothpaste, topical gels etc. In case of severe pain, crushed cloves or clove oil seems more effective. Cloves also help in getting rid of bad breath.

There are various plants which can help in developing the immunity level in a person. Clove is one such plant. There are certain compounds in the dried flower bud of clove which help in increasing the count of the white blood cells which in turn makes us resist foreign agents and diseases. However, animal-based studies suggest that clove oil can reduce the cell-mediated immunity which is detrimental to the health.

(Read more: Immunity boosting foods)

Low bone density can lead to osteoporosis, which may cause breaks and fractures in bones. Some of the compounds in cloves like phenolic and eugenol grants preservation in bone density and increases the tensile strength of bones. Thus, regular use of clove can be helpful for patients suffering from osteoporosis.

Cloves are a good source of minerals like calcium, manganese, and phosphorus. Minerals are of utter importance for the growth of bones and bone health. According to a study, when manganese supplements were consumed for 12 weeks they resulted in an increase in bone mineral density and its growth. Since it was an animal study, further research is required to evident similar effects in human bones.

Regular consumption of clove can help in maintaining blood sugar levels. People suffering from diabetes may go through either lower levels of insulin or no insulin at all. Various compounds present in cloves emulate insulin which leads to controlled blood sugar levels.

A preclinical study showed how the extracts of cloves moderated blood sugar spikes. The presence of Nigericin has also been suggested to improve insulin secretion by the pancreatic cells.

Cloves are amongst the many spices that have potent anticancerous properties. Cell damage is one of the primary reasons for cancer. Clove has a number of antioxidants that can prevent cell damage. The eugenol that is found in clove is also an effective anti-cancer agent. In a study, it was seen that eugenol played a positive role in the treatment of cervical cancer. Another test tube study showed that concentrated quantities of clove oil were responsible for the death of cancerous cells in cases of oesophagal cancer.