Clove

Latin name: Syzygiumaromaticum

Native to: Maluku Islannds (or Moluccas) in Indonesia

Benefits: Helps with pain relief, traditionally used as the essential oil in aromatherapy. The main active compound found in clove is eugenol, which has anesthetic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

The chemical eugenol has been extensively used in dental care due to it's relief of tooth-related pain and improving the symptoms of gingivitis (swelling of the gums) and other dental conditions.

Many people use clove to help defeat their cigarette habit. Cloves are known to be one of the foods to help quit smoking. Its strong tastes significantly helps with the nicotine cravings.

Cloves are also being studied for their antioxidant effect in the prevention of cancer in the digestive system, reducing joint pain, and even as a mosquito repellent. It is also rich in manganese, calcium, magnesium, vitamin C, fiber and omega 3 essential fatty acids.