YES! It’s December again — already!! And, I know it’s crunch time for everyone — so many thanks for looking in!
Gosh — over the last few months we’ve discussed Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, Movember, fund-raising and a variety of other subjects including — food! — yes! great tasting food that’s actually good for you!
And, by popular demand — I am back this month with another post dissecting another fabulous food — or rather spice — that is a holiday staple in so many recipes for so many people. So, come with me now as we explore the exotic world of the humble — and amazing — clove!
Now, clove is no new kid on the block. Clove is an ancient spice that was used in China nearly 2500 years ago. Growing primarily in tropical countries it is a member of the Myrtaceae family — otherwise known as Myrtle. The clove tree itself is a tropical evergreen that produces a clove bud — and it is this bud that is used for cooking purposes.
There are many variations of clove, including E. caryophyllata, E. aromatica, Caryophyllus aromaticus and Syzgium aromaticum (now that’s a mouthful) but — ultimately they all have very similar characteristics. It is a distinctive species that has a pungent and pleasant smell as well as a strong and burning flavor. And the reason for this is the natural oil that makes up fifteen percent of each clove. To be more exact, this fifteen percent includes a combination of eugenol oil, eugenol acetate and B-caryophyllene.
But, here’s where it gets fun! In addition to this quantity of natural oils, the active ingredients in clove are known to have anesthetic, antiseptic, rubefacient, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, carminative and anti-flatulent properties!! Wow! So, let’s re-phrase this in simple English.
First, the essential oils including eugenol not only give clove its sweet aromatic fragrance, but they provide local anesthetic and antiseptic properties. As a result, clove can be used in dental care to fight bad breath, treat painful gums and numb irritated oral tissues. Eugenol also has been found to reduce blood sugar levels in diabetics, to relieve stress and tension when used in aromatherapy and to be quite an effective aphrodisiac!
The essential oils also function as a rubefacient — think “a warm and soothing rub” — when applied to the skin. In other words, these oils stimulate the skin and expand the blood vessels. In turn, the increased flow of blood makes the skin feel warmer and reduces inflammation — making the oils a popular home remedy for treating arthritis and sore muscles — especially when used in a hot bath or a poultice.
Clove also contains substantial minerals like potassium, iron, selenium, magnesium and manganese. Potassium, of course, is an important electrolyte that helps control heart rate and blood pressure. And, manganese is a co-factor of the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD), which is an enzyme that repairs cells and reduces the damage caused to them by superoxide — the most common free radical in the body! Clove also is a good source of Vitamin K, Vitamin B6, thiamin, riboflavin and Vitamin C — all of which join the fight against harmful oxygen-free radicals and infectious agents in the body.
Moreover, as an antioxidant, clove contains good amounts of Vitamin A and Beta-carotene — both known for their antioxidant properties. Vitamin A is essential for good vision and helps maintain healthy mucus membranes and skin. And the flavinoids in clove help protect the body from both lung and oral cavity cancers!
And if that were not enough, clove also contains carminative properties — which means it’s good for the digestion. Clove increases gastro-intestinal enzyme secretions, which help relieve indigestion, constipation and flatulence! — And it works as a natural anti-parasite agent that can destroy intestinal worms — just in case. Now, that’s what I call good for the gut!
So, let’s celebrate the clove this holiday season and all its flavorful, medicinal and healing aspects! Use it as decoration or potpourri. Use it in meats and curries and soups to add an exotic touch. Use it in hot ciders and mulled wines. Use it in pies and cookies and your favorite candies. Or use it just to relax, de-stress and enjoy this wondrous season of goodwill, good cheer and good tidings! And no matter what holiday you celebrate, may you and yours enjoy it in peace, harmony and health!
TAKE THE COURSE AND TAKE CHARGE!
Image courtesy of Artur84 at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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