Ground Cloves

With their robust, aromatic, and sweet taste, ground cloves have long been a versatile spice. Their unique flavour and numerous health benefits make them a fascinating ingredient in traditional medicine and a staple in cuisines worldwide.

What are cloves?

Whole cloves are pink flower buds from the clove tree that have yet to bloom. When they dry, they become brown. Cloves are mostly harvested from the tree species Syzygium aromaticum. They have a very warm, sweet, and fragrant taste. These exotic trees are endemic to Indonesia's Maluku Islands, sometimes known as the Spice Islands. They thrive in warm, moist environments. Once dried, the buds may be used whole or crushed in food and medicinal applications.

Ancient usage

Cloves have been utilised for over 2,000 years in India, China, and the Middle East. They are said to be among the earliest spices to be marketed. People in ancient Roman and Chinese civilisations utilised them not just for flavour but also to keep food fresh and as medicine. As a result, cloves played a significant role in the worldwide spice trade, assisting nations in increasing commerce and paving the way for new trading routes. In the 1600s, the Dutch were so keen to dominate the market that they planted solely clove plants.

Commercial production

Cloves are produced commercially in Indonesia, Madagascar, and Zanzibar. The drying process, which gives the spice its distinct scent and flavour, requires special care. Typically, the buds are hand-picked and let dry in the sun for a few days. Indonesia is the world's largest producer of cloves, which has a huge effect on global pricing and supply chains.

Health benefits of cloves

Recent scientific investigations are beginning to confirm what many civilisations have known for centuries: cloves are beneficial in various ways. Researchers discovered they contain many antioxidants, which help protect cells from harm and reduce the risk of chronic illnesses. According to studies, the eugenol in cloves may help lessen the risk of cancer and liver illness while also keeping blood sugar levels under control, which may benefit people with diabetes. Clove oil is well-known for healing toothaches and oral infections in dentistry. Cloves have also been linked to improved digestion, headache relief, and immune system strength.