CLOVE

Botanical Name

Syzygium aromaticum

The clove of commerce is the air-dried unopened flower bud obtained from evergreen medium sized tree. The tree grows to a height of 10-12 mtrs and start flowering in about 7 years. It continues to produce flower buds for 80 or more years. It is a valuable spice of the orient. Clove clusters are plucked by hand when the buds are fully developed with a pronounced pink flush and then dried over several days in the sun. Unopened flower buds, leaves and stalks yield essential oil.
 

Cloves, which is also used as a spice and a medicine, is often found in the manufacturing of toothpaste, cosmetics, soaps, and, perfumes. Containing chemicals which help to decrease pain and fight infections, cloves can be used for food flavouring as well. Especially used when cooking meats and curries, cloves provide an aesthetic appeal. Nonetheless, cloves are used for medications to slow down the blood clotting. Here is the good news: Cloves can treat acne while promoting youthful skin.