Clove oil (Latin Oleum Caryophyllorum) is a natural essential oil formed in the spherical glands of a plant known as the spicy clove—although its less known, official botanical name is a fragrant cap (Syzygium aromaticum). Capetka belongs to the myrtle family and grows wild in Indonesia. It is also a cultivated plant, the plantations of which are located in many countries with an equatorial climate, and Tanzania is its greatest tycoon.

Oil-secreting glands are present on all parts of theclove, but most of them are in the flowerbuds. We all know the driedflower budsunder the name of cloves, which are a popular spice.Naturalessentialoilof good quality is obtained by distilling pinkishflower budswith steam. Inferior oils are obtained from the stalks and leaves, they have a lower active ingredient content, and are often used to adulterate essential oil fromflower buds.

Composition of natural clove oil from clove buds

The most important component ofnaturalclove oilis eugenol and, to a lesser extent, its derivative – acetyloeugenol. The content of these substances in the oil from thebuds ranges from 78% to even 95%.Eugenol is a compound from the group of terpenes and is responsible for the most importantpropertiesof clove oil. First of all, it has a strong disinfecting (antiseptic) as well as local anesthetic effect. In addition,clove oilcontains a number of complex organic substances, including Methyl salicylate, which has an external analgesic, anti-inflammatory and warming effect as a result of skin hyperemia. Unfortunately,clove oilit may also contain small amounts of methanol (methyl alcohol), which is toxic to humans. Fortunately, these are very small amounts that cannot harm us.

Medicinal properties of clove oil

Due to its strong disinfecting effect,clove oilhas long been used in dentistry as a disinfectant and anesthetic. Eugenol obtained from essentialoilis still included in preparations for disinfecting not only the oral cavity, but also the dental canals. It is also included in some dental cements used as a temporary filling (in combination with zinc oxide). Chewing cloves or directly applying a small amount of oil to the painful area has been used as a home remedy fortoothache for centuries.

On the other hand, the useof clove oilon the skin is recommended for various types ofmuscleand joint pain (especially rheumatism) and for neuralgia. It causes hyperemia and warms the skin, anesthetizes, and its substances have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. The effectof clove oilon the skin alone is also helpful in soothing all kinds ofinsect bites. It also deters insects.

Clove oilhas antibacterial, antifungal, antiprotozoal and antiviral properties, so it can be used as an aid in various types of skin infections after consulting a doctor. Be careful when applying the oil directly to the skin as it may cause irritation – it is better to dilute it in a neutral base oil. You can also use baths, sitz baths or soaking feet in water with the addition of a few drops of oil.

The properties of the natural clove essential oilas a volatile substance will also be appreciated byallergy sufferers, because it destroys mites. An aromatherapeutic effect will be an additional advantage – thescent of clove oilhas a positive effect on the mood. On the other hand, inhaling the oil as an additive to inhalation will help you fight all infectionsof the respiratory system.

Natural clove essential oilof good quality is also recommended by some doctors for internal use – of course in a diluted form. However, be careful as it can irritate the stomach and intestines. The oil has a relaxing, carminative, antiseptic and astringent effect inthe digestive system. Parasites and fungi do not like it. After being absorbed from the digestive system, the oil stimulates blood circulation and disinfects also the urinary tract.

Cloves are found in some spice blends, such asgaram masala. It is worth trying their taste and action.

Clove oilis also used in cosmetics, perfumery and food industry. One thing is certain – it is worthwhile for it to stay in our home permanently, and adding an aromatic fireplace to the fireplace will at least from time to time clean the air of bacteria and mites.