Herb's Introduction
Syzygium aromaticum (L.) Merr. & L. M. Perry, commonly known as Clove, is an evergreen tree belonging to the family Myrtaceae. It is renowned globally for its highly aromatic dried flower buds, which are used as a prominent spice and in traditional medicine systems across the world. Native to the Maluku Islands (or Moluccas, the Spice Islands) in Indonesia, the clove tree has been cultivated in tropical regions worldwide for centuries, valued both for its distinct flavor and its numerous health benefits. The commercial part of the plant is the unopened flower bud, which possesses a strong, pungent, and warm aroma and taste, primarily due to the high content of the essential oil component eugenol. It holds a significant place in culinary arts, traditional medicine, and various industries.
Name in Different Countries
The widespread use of Syzygium aromaticum is reflected in its diverse names across the globe: Arabic: قرنفل (Qaranful), laung, Habahan Assami: লং Bengali: লবঙ্গ (lavanga) Chinese: 丁香 (Ting-hsiang) Deutsch (German): Gewürznelke, Kruidnagel English: Cloves French: Giroflier, Clou de girofle Hindi: लौंग (laumg), lavamg Indonesian: Cengkih, Kembang lawang Italian: Chiodi di garofano, Garofano Kannada: ಲವಂಗ (lavanga) Malayalam: കരയാമ്പൂ (karayampu), grampu, karampu Marathi: लवंग (lavang) Nepali: Lwang (as noted for spices in Nepal) Persian: mekhak Portuguese: Cravo-da-índia Russian: Gvozdika, Clavo, Raja Sanskrit: bhadrasriya, devakusuma, lavanga, lavangam Siddha / Tamil: கிராம்பு (kiraampu), இலவங்கம் (ilavangam) Telugu: లవంగము (lavangamu) Thai: Kaan phlûu (Garn ploo) Urdu: laung, lavang Vietnamese: Ðinh hu’o’ng
Terminology
Scientific Name: Syzygium aromaticum (L.) Merr. & L. M. Perry Synonyms: Eugenia aromatica (L.) Baill., Caryophyllus aromaticus L., Eugenia caryophyllata Thunb., etc. Family: Myrtaceae (The Myrtle family) Commercial Part: The dried, unopened flower buds (cloves). Key Chemical Constituents: Eugenol (the principal component of the essential oil), Acetyl eugenol, β-caryophyllene, and α-humulene. These phenolic compounds are responsible for the herb's strong aroma and most of its pharmacological activities. Vernacular Name in Nepal: The spice is known as Lwang in Nepali, and its use is documented among the medicinal plants and spices of the region, where it is used as a spice and for its traditional medicinal benefits.
Availability
Cloves are an ancient and globally traded spice. They are primarily grown in tropical climates with warm, humid conditions and well-draining soil. Native Region: Maluku Islands (Indonesia). Major Producers Globally: Indonesia, Madagascar, Tanzania, Sri Lanka, and India. Availability in Nepal: Although not typically native or grown commercially on a large scale in Nepal due to climatic conditions, cloves are readily available throughout the country as a common imported spice in both whole and ground forms, as well as an ingredient in various herbal preparations and essential oils. Its inclusion in lists of Nepali spices and medicinal plants confirms its common usage.
External Look
The commercial clove is the dried, unopened flower bud of the Syzygium aromaticum tree. Tree: An evergreen tree that can grow up to 8–12 meters tall, featuring dark green, leathery, lanceolate leaves and terminal clusters of sanguine (blood-red) flowers. Clove Bud (Spice): The dried bud is small, reddish-brown, and has a distinctive shape resembling a nail, which is why its French name is clou de girofle (nail of clove). It consists of a long, thick calyx (the "handle" of the nail) that terminates in four spreading sepals, surrounding the small, spherical, unopened petals (the "head" of the nail) which contain the essential oil. The dried buds are brittle and have an oily feel due to their high oil content. Fruit (Mother of Clove): The olive-shaped, single-seeded fruit develops after flowering and is also aromatic.
Healing Properties
Clove is a treasure trove of bioactive compounds, especially eugenol, which grant it extensive healing properties confirmed by both traditional medicine and modern research: Analgesic and Anesthetic: The essential oil is particularly famous for its use as a local analgesic, especially in dentistry, where it numbs pain (like toothache). Anti-inflammatory: It exhibits significant anti-inflammatory activity, which helps in reducing pain and swelling. Antimicrobial (Antibacterial, Antifungal, Antiviral, Antiparasitic): Clove oil is a potent antiseptic and germicide, effective against various pathogens, including bacteria (like MRSA), fungi, and viruses. Antioxidant: Cloves are extremely rich in phenolic compounds, which provide powerful antioxidant capacity, fighting free radicals and reducing oxidative stress. Carminative and Antispasmodic: It aids digestion, helps expel gas, reduces bloating, and soothes spasms in the digestive tract. Stimulant: It acts as a general stimulant for the body and nervous system.
Advantages
The advantages of using Syzygium aromaticum are numerous, stemming from its potent chemical profile and versatility: Natural Pain Relief: Highly effective for quick, temporary relief from dental pain and can be used externally for headaches and muscle aches. Digestive Aid: Improves digestion, increases hydrochloric acid in the stomach, and is traditionally used for nausea, vomiting (antiemetic), dyspepsia, and stomach ailments. Broad Spectrum Antimicrobial: Its powerful antiseptic nature makes it useful for oral hygiene (toothpaste, mouthwash), treating minor infections, and acting as a food preservative. Rich Source of Antioxidants: Contributes to overall health by combating chronic diseases linked to oxidative stress. Respiratory Support: Its expectorant properties help in removing mucus, easing symptoms of coughs, colds, and bronchitis. Aromatic and Flavoring Agent: Adds a unique, warm flavor to food and beverages and is widely used in the perfume and cosmetic industries.
Uses
Cloves are used in a variety of ways globally, including culinary, medicinal, and industrial applications: Culinary: Used whole or ground in various cuisines (Asian, African, European) to flavor meats, curries, marinades, baked goods (especially during holidays), hot beverages (like wassail), and fruit dishes. It is a key ingredient in spice blends like Garam Masala. Traditional Medicine Systems (Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, Chinese Medicine): Ayurveda: Used for Amlapitta (acidity/dyspepsia), Swasa (asthma/respiratory issues), Chardi (vomiting), Kasa (cough), Hikka (hiccups), and as an anti-inflammatory and stimulant. Siddha: Used for Kazhicchal (diarrhea), Pasiyinmai (anorexia), Pal vali (toothache), and Vaanthi (vomiting). Unani: Used for Bakhrul Fam (halitosis), Waj-ul-Asnam (toothache), Zof-e-Meda (stomach weakness), and Sue-Hazm (dyspepsia). Dental Care: Clove oil is an essential component in temporary dental fillings, mouthwashes, and is used to relieve toothache and gum inflammation. Aromatherapy: The essential oil is used for its warming, stimulating, and digestive properties. Non-Culinary: Used in kretek cigarettes (Indonesia), as a repellent, and to make fragrant pomanders.
Using Way
The manner of using Clove depends entirely on the desired effect: For Toothache: A single whole clove can be gently chewed near the affected tooth, or a drop of clove essential oil (diluted with a carrier oil if sensitive) can be applied directly to the painful area or a cotton swab and placed in the tooth cavity for temporary numbing relief. As a Spice: Use whole buds in marinades, rice dishes, or to stud meats (like ham/onions), ensuring removal before serving. Ground clove is used in baking and spice blends. For Digestive/Respiratory Issues (Internal): Infusion (Tea): Steep 1-2 crushed clove buds in a cup of hot water for 5-10 minutes. Can be consumed to aid digestion, reduce nausea, or help with cough/cold symptoms. Powder: Small amounts of dried, ground clove powder can be mixed with honey or other ingredients as per traditional recipes (e.g., Lavangadyam Churnam in Ayurveda). Oil (Internal): Essential oil should only be taken internally under the guidance of a qualified practitioner, and only in highly diluted, minute amounts due to its potency. Topical (for Headaches/Muscle Pain): Clove oil must be diluted with a carrier oil (like coconut or almond oil) and massaged gently onto the affected area. Important Note on Dosage and Safety: Clove oil is very potent. High doses, especially of the essential oil, can be toxic and may cause liver damage. Always use in moderation and consult a healthcare professional for specific medicinal applications, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, or managing a chronic condition.
Conclusion
Syzygium aromaticum, or Clove, stands as one of the world’s most powerful and versatile spices and medicinal herbs. From its unique, nail-like appearance to its potent, eugenol-rich essential oil, it delivers exceptional analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial benefits. Its deep integration into global cuisine and traditional healing systems like Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani highlights its proven efficacy for digestive, respiratory, and dental ailments. Available widely even in regions like Nepal as the trusted spice Lwang, clove continues to be valued not just as a flavor enhancer but as a vital natural remedy, embodying the synergy between nature's gifts and human well-being.
