Cloves can be described as a dried bud of a flower that is not open. The flower bud is pink in color in the initial stages, but then gradually turns brown, as it dries up. Native to the Philippine Islands, cloves are now produced in several countries all around the world and are also used in many cuisines to enhance the flavor in a variety of dishes.


Cloves and clove oil have also been used for centuries now, because of the numerous health benefits that have been associated with them. The main ingredient used in producing clove oil, is not the clove, but the flower of the clove plant. This oil is not like some of the other ordinary edible oils; clove oil uses are way more, since it contains antiseptic, antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties.


Therefore, there are several nutritional and medicinal benefits of clove oil for the health of the individual.

Clove oil uses for ailments

There are many clove oil remedies that people have been using, in order to alleviate or even cure various ailments. Most people first turn to clove oil for a toothache, because it contains an ingredient known as eugenol, which is a natural pain killer. It is best to dilute some clove oil in a small amount of olive oil and then dip a piece of cotton in it. The oil mixture then directly needs to be applied to the achy tooth. Apart from reducing the inflammation, the bacteria and the fungi will be eliminated. However, it is still advisable to visit a dentist after using this remedy, to prevent any recurrence of toothaches. Clove oil is known therefore known to be an excellent toothache remedy especially if you suffer from it during pregnancy since it is considered to have almost negligible side effects.

Clove oil uses also include the improvement of the respiratory system, since it reduces any inflammation in the body. People who are suffering from a stuffy nose, cold, asthma, viral infection, bronchitis or tuberculosis can alleviate their discomfort, by taking a steam, to which 10 to 15 drops of clove oil have been added. In case of a sore throat, people are generally advised to chew on a few pieces of clove as well.

Clove oil has an excellent effect in treating several skin conditions, which include severe acne, rashes, scrapes, blisters and minor cuts. It can also be used on insect bites and stings, to keep the infection away. Some people may use clove oil to cure cold sores within the mouth because of its antiseptic qualities; however, it is best to check with a doctor, before treating cold sores with clove oil. Applying clove oil on acne affected areas on the skin can help reduce the inflammation. In order to use clove oil for acne treatment, it is best to dilute a few drops of it, with a few drops of Vitamin E oil or olive oil. This is because clove oil is very strong and could lead to further skin irritation, if it is not used in the right manner.

Clove oil uses also include the reduction of arthritis pain and muscle aches. It is a rich source of iron, calcium and omega-3 oil, all of which are great for improving the health of joints, muscles and bones. People who use clove oil can see an improvement in their blood circulation, which boosts the immunity system, making them less vulnerable to various diseases and conditions.

There are certain clove oil uses for diabetics too. Several people who are diabetic are asked to consume clove oil, in order to reduce the levels of blood sugar in their bodies.

Besides these the benefits of clove oil for hair treatment and treatment of the scalp is also widely known.
 
One of the many clove oil uses is that it can be very effective as an anesthesia for fish. Hence, many professionals use clove oil for fish that need to be put to sleep for a while. As compared to many of the other products that are given to fish, clove oil is relatively safe for the fish, as well as the user. However, the recovery period that may be required by the fish, after taking the anesthesia, will probably be longer, especially, if the water is cold. However, clove oil has not been approved by the FDA and the use of it in fish that are meant for human consumption is prohibited.

In spite of the numerous clove oil uses and benefits that are known of, it is best to consult a doctor, before consuming this oil, or using it in any other form.