Clove, a well-known spice in cooking, also has other benefits. It is also used in traditional medicine. Discover here why women in particular should make it their health ally.
Clove, commonly used in cooking, also has health benefits. It aids digestion and fights dental infections. Here are four reasons why women should use it:
Improvement of oral health
Women are often more concerned about their oral health than men, due to hormonal changes that can affect their gums. The antimicrobial properties of cloves make it an excellent natural remedy for combating oral infections, toothaches, and gum problems. Clove infusion can be used as a mouthwash to soothe inflammation and prevent infections. Its pleasant taste can also help freshen breath.
For menstrual pain
Cloves could reduce or even relieve the symptoms of dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) due to their analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-nausea properties. Painful menstruation, also called dysmenorrhea, can be caused by high levels of prostaglandin in the body. Prostaglandin is a hormone produced by the uterine lining during menstruation and can cause painful uterine contractions, nausea, vomiting, headaches, and bloating. It is possible to reduce menstrual pain by regulating prostaglandin levels. Cloves can be an interesting support for dysmenorrhea due to their anti-inflammatory, anti-vomiting, anti-nausea, and analgesic properties (reduce pain).
Moreover, some studies suggest that cloves may inhibit the production of prostaglandins and histamine. Like prostaglandins, histamine could also induce contractions of the smooth muscles in the female genital system. In this context, cloves could inhibit histamine production, which limits the transmission of pain signals to the brain.
Usage tips
Allow 2-3 whole cloves or powdered cloves to steep in a cup of hot milk. Strain and drink between 2 and 3 cups per day.
For urinary tract infections
Cloves can be beneficial in preventing and relieving urinary tract infections (UTIs) due to their antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. Cloves contain a bioactive compound called eugenol, which exhibits bactericidal action against E. coli bacteria, the culprits behind UTIs. Studies have shown that eugenol inhibits the growth and reproduction of these bacteria, helping to prevent the spread of infection.
Furthermore, cloves have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that aid in reducing bladder inflammation and the pain associated with UTIs. It has also been shown that eugenol can help reduce swelling and irritation of the urinary tract, as well as alleviate pain sensations.
Infusion method
Infusing cloves provides significant hydration when dealing with urinary tract infections. This helps eliminate waste products produced by the body during the destruction of Escherichia coli bacteria. For a clove infusion, pour 2-3 cloves into a cup of hot water and steep for 10 to 15 minutes. Then, strain the mixture. Drink 2 to 3 cups per day.
Strengthening the immune system
Women’s immune systems can be more vulnerable due to hormonal fluctuations, stress, or nutrient deficiencies. Cloves are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and essential minerals such as vitamin C, magnesium, and calcium, which help strengthen the immune system. By regularly consuming clove infusion, women can increase their resistance to infections and illnesses, while promoting better digestion and easier nutrient absorption.
Precautions
Pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as babies and children under 6 years old, should not use or consume clove for intimate hygiene.
People with stomach ulcers, epilepsy, and those undergoing anticoagulant and antiplatelet treatments should not use or consume cloves.
Do not use or consume cloves in excess. Excessive consumption of cloves can cause side effects such as nausea, heartburn, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
In the long term, cloves can cause an allergy or be toxic to the liver. It is therefore advisable not to exceed 10 days of treatment and to take breaks of one to two weeks between each treatment.
