A clove a day improves heart health and regulates cholesterol

 Cloves Significantly Boost Heart Health

   

A clove a day improves heart health and regulates cholesterol

Besides its culinary uses, studies have shown that cloves can significantly boost heart health. They are rich in antioxidants and bioactive compounds such as eugenol, and help lower harmful low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol while supporting good HDL cholesterol levels. Cloves, the aromatic buds of the Syzygium flower, are known for their rich flavor and numerous health benefits.

Besides their culinary uses, studies have shown that they can significantly boost heart health. They are rich in antioxidants and bioactive compounds such as eugenol, and help lower harmful low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol while supporting good HDL cholesterol levels.

Eating one clove a day also helps maintain healthy blood lipid levels, reduce inflammation, and protect against oxidative stress, all of which contribute to improved cardiovascular function and overall heart health. Regular use also improves blood circulation and maintains healthy blood pressure levels, according to the Times of India.

Heart Health Benefits

A study published in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research found that participants with hyperlipidemia who took clove supplements experienced a significant reduction in total and LDL cholesterol levels. Clove's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties were highlighted as key contributors to this improvement.

A study published in the Journal of Food Technology and Preservation showed that a combination of clove and ginger extracts reduced total and LDL cholesterol in animal models. These findings suggest that cloves may support heart health by maintaining healthy lipid levels and reducing inflammation.

It may also play a potential role in preventing plaque formation. Eugenol, the main active compound in cloves, can prevent the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. Oxidized LDL cholesterol is a major factor in the formation of arterial plaques, which can lead to cardiovascular disease. Therefore, adding cloves to your diet offers protection against atherosclerosis.

Additional Health Benefits of Cloves

Besides heart health, cloves offer many other benefits.

They have anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce systemic inflammation associated with chronic diseases such as arthritis and metabolic disorders. Regularly including cloves in your diet can relieve joint stiffness and reduce markers of inflammation over time.

Some studies have also indicated that cloves can help regulate blood sugar levels, making them beneficial for diabetics. Adding cloves to meals or tea can help improve glucose control and insulin sensitivity. Cloves have also been traditionally used to relieve digestive disorders, including bloating and indigestion. They can also stimulate digestive enzymes, promoting smooth digestion and nutrient absorption.

The eugenol in cloves also has natural analgesic and antiseptic properties, making them useful in preventing toothaches and gum problems. Using clove oil or chewing cloves can help reduce oral bacteria and impart a naturally fresh breath. Cloves are also rich in antioxidants, which help protect cells from oxidative stress and support overall immune function. These antioxidants also slow cell aging and contribute to improved heart and liver health.

Included in your diet

Incorporating cloves into your daily routine is simple and versatile. They can be consumed as a hot beverage, used in cooking, or even as an oil, as follows:

• Clove tea: Steep one whole clove in hot water for 5-10 minutes. This light tea can be consumed daily to support cardiovascular health.

• Culinary Uses: Ground cloves can be added to soups, baked goods, or smoothies. One clove per serving is sufficient for optimal benefits.

• Clove Oil: A few drops of clove oil can be used in cooking or as a natural flavoring agent. Caution should be used, as clove oil is highly concentrated.

• Topical Use: When diluted with a carrier oil, clove oil can be applied to the skin to relieve muscle pain or minor skin irritation.

Precautions and Considerations

However, while cloves are generally safe in moderate amounts, excessive consumption—especially clove oil—can cause side effects, including liver toxicity and gastrointestinal irritation. Pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as those with underlying medical conditions, should consult their physician before significantly increasing their clove intake.