The true cloves are evergreen trees or shrubs of the myrtle family with fragrant leaves. Clove is native to the Moluccas, but today it is also cultivated in many other tropical countries. In 2008, the most important clove exporting countries were Indonesia, Madagascar, Tanzania, Sri Lanka and Comoros.
Clove oil is obtained by distilling dried flower buds obtained from the clove tree.
This interesting, strong aroma has been used by people for several centuries.
Benefits of clove oil which helps as:
- Antimicrobial to help kill bacteria
- Painkiller for such diseases
- Pain reliever for tooth and muscle pain
- Helps prevent indigestion
- Relieves respiratory disorders such as cough and asthma
As with any essential oil, researchers are actively conducting various experiments and researching their more precise origin and benefits, let's take a look at some of the existing studies:
- A 2017 study looked at the antifungal activity of several essential oils. Of the oils tested, clove oil was the most effective at inhibiting the growth of various environmental fungi
- In 2017, researchers tested clove oil to see if it had any effect on chronic itching when applied to the skin. The study found that compared to other oils, clove oil significantly reduced itching.
- A 2016 study tested 10 natural herbal products to see how effective they were against organisms that cause oral infections. Clove oil was found to be most effective in inhibiting oral cavity-causing organisms
How to use clove oil:
- It can be used to create sprays by mixing it with water - diffuse it at home creating a pleasant aroma
- In massages - by mixing it with base oils, smear the body evenly and calmly, thus promoting relaxation and nourishing your body
- Adding to creams, scrubs, various cosmetics
- It can also be used to improve the oral cavity - by mixing it with one of the base oils (coconut, olive oil), dipping a cotton swab in this mixture, then smearing the oral cavity, repeating it several times a day, it is possible to reduce tooth/gum pain
If any allergic reaction, itching, or headache occurs, immediately stop using this oil, if necessary, consult a health professional
Clove oil is often associated with the feeling of Christmas, it creates a pleasant aroma, excitement and joy that we can share with our loved ones.