Clove, a spice with a rich history and diverse uses, is derived from the sun-dried flower buds of the clove tree, turning them brown and hard with a spicy, hot flavor. With over 2000 years of use in Asia for both medicinal and culinary purposes, cloves gained popularity in Europe during the Middle Ages, rivaling even pepper in fame.
Interestingly, a staggering 95% of the world’s clove production is dedicated to making Indonesian cigarettes, despite its widespread culinary use. The clove tree’s fragility and the practice of harvesting its buds before petal emergence, which typically begins in the tree’s eighth year, contribute to this unique situation.
Cloves are known for their various health benefits:
Cloves are known for their various health benefits. For instance, infusing 4 or 5 cloves in boiling water creates a drink that can alleviate digestive issues like stomach aches and bloating. Additionally, cloves are beneficial for dental health. Sucking on a clove can freshen breath and prevent dental problems, thanks to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
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