Not only can they help to lower blood sugar, but this powerful little spice can help to lower blood pressure
at the same time. Research has shown that eugenol, along with some of the other compounds found in cloves, have vasodilatory effects. This means that they may help to relax and widen blood vessels, potentially leading to lower blood pressure. Cloves also contain antioxidants which help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, two factors known to contribute to high blood pressure. Some research shows that incorporating cloves into your diet or using clove oil in aromatherapy may help to promote healthy blood pressure and cardiovascular health. That being said, they can not replace prescribed blood pressure medications. Anyone already on blood pressure medication should consult with their doctor before trying any kind of naturopathic aid for their blood pressure.
Eugenol in Cloves: Exploring Potential Anti-Cancer Properties
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Eugenol is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory substance. Thanks to these properties, it has some promising potential as an anti-cancer agent. There is some research that suggests that the bioactive components in cloves may help to inhibit the growth of cancer cells while simultaneously inducing cell death in certain types of cancer. More research is required to fully understand the mechanisms underlying these anti-cancer effects of cloves. Incorporating cloves into an already healthy, balanced diet may offer some additional cancer protective effects. As always, it is important to remember that cloves cannot and should not replace traditional cancer treatments. It is important to consult a healthcare practitioner before incorporating cloves for potential cancer prevention, especially if you are looking to take them in high concentrations.
Relieve Itchy Skin
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In traditional medicine, cloves – in particular, clove oil – have been used to help relieve itchy skin. This is thanks to the spice’s natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Again, it is the powerful compound eugenol at work here, having been found to have a soothing effect on itchy, irritated skin. To use clove oil on your skin, you must first dilute it in a carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil. From there, apply this oil mixture topically to the affected area. Before applying to a large or highly visible area of your skin, first do a patch test to check for any adverse reactions. Just because clove oil is natural, doesn’t mean it will necessarily be right for you. As always, it is best to first consult with a dermatologist or healthcare provider before use. This is especially if you have sensitive skin or pre-existing skin conditions, to make sure that this is safe for your skin and won’t make your condition worse.
Improve Breathing
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Source: ShutterstockIf you’re having some difficulty breathing, perhaps some phlegm build-up post cold and flu season, then breathing in steam with cloves may offer some respite. Eugenol and other aromatic compounds in cloves have been traditionally used for their therapeutic benefits on the respiratory system. can help to open up your airways, soothe sore throats, and alleviate respiratory congestion. It can be beneficial for relief from colds, bronchitis, and even allergies. It does this by loosening mucus and making it easier to breathe. All you have to do is add a few cloves or a few drops of clove oil to a bowl of steaming hot water, lean over the bowl and cover your head with a towel to trap the steam, and breathe deeply. Do be cautious to ensure that the steam is warm but not too hot, as steam can very easily burn your skin. If you have pre-existing respiratory conditions or sensitivities, consult with your doctor before trying this method.
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