Description :
The Clove tree is native to Indonesia but has been naturalized in most tropical climates around the globe. The trees can grow up to 40 feet high. They have a unique blueish-grey bark. The leaves, which grow in pairs up to 5 inches long, resemble dark, shiny bay leaves. Twice per year, inch-long red blossoms appear in clusters near the branch tips. The blossoms attract bees which pollinate the flowers. The dark brown, nail like spice that we are used to in our recipes is actually the dried, unopened flower bud from the Clove tree. Historically cloves were crushed (or chewed) and kept in the mouth to relieve mouth sores or toothaches.
History and Folklore:
The word clove comes from the Latin word clavus, which means nail, because the clove bud resembles a nail. Trade in Cloves as a spice was lucrative as far back as the 17th century. Before nitrous oxide, dentists would have patients chew cloves for their anesthetic properties.
Cultivation and Harvest:
From a tree of at least 20 years in age, harvest the unopened buds shortly after they appear, before they begin to turn pink. Pick them off the tree and dry them in the sun or in a closed mason jar. When dried, you can press them with your fingernail and they should exude oil.
Precautions:
Do not use if pregnant or nursing.
Traditional Herbal Actions:
Anesthetic, antimicrobial, anodyne, antiseptic
Other Names:
Ding Xiang, Eugenia aromatica, Eugenia caryophyllata, Eugenia caryophyllus
Tincture Ingredients: Cloves (Syzgium aromaticum)
*These statements have not been verified by the FDA and is only referenced here as a fun fact and/or for historical commentary, is not to be used as medical advice in any way. Consult your doctor before ingesting any herbal product.
None of these items or statements are approved by FDA. Consult your physician before taking any supplement. Do not take herbs or tinctures during pregnancy without consulting your healthcare provider. This product is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease. All information here is for entertainment and educational purposes only.
Dylan –