Ingredients: 100% Whole Cloves.

Origin: Madagascar

The name cloves comes from the Latin word clavus (a nail), because of the appearance of the dried, unopened flower buds. Cloves are native in South-east Asia, but they are now widely grown in the tropical climates of the Caribbean, Indonesia, Malaysia, Madagascar, Tanzania and Sri Lanka. They are picked when the pink buds are small, before the purple or crimson flowers develop. The buds change to a darker brown as they slowly dry up in the sun. Cloves have a sweet, pungent flavour and aroma. They can be quite bitter, but the heat of cooking tempers their flavour.

The warm scent and taste of cloves is quite distinctive, hence their use in many classic spice mixtures and in numerous Indian and Asian curry powders. They are also used in European spice mixtures for mulling wine. Cloves have an affinity with apples and are added whole or ground to apple puddings, pies, tarts and sauces. Ground cloves are used to spice rich cakes, biscuits and gingerbreads .

Cloves provide some impressive health benefits. They are an excellent source of beta-carotene, manganese, Vitamin K, and potassium. Cloves include multiple compounds that are linked to anti-inflammatory properties, such as eugenol which has been shown to reduce the risk of diseases such as arthritis. Eugenol is also a potent antioxidant, helping to reduce the risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.

Cloves can also help protect the stomach from ulcers which are caused by thinning in the layers of mucus that protect the stomach lining. Studies show that cloves can thicken this mucus, lowering the risk of developing ulcers.  Cloves may also improve general liver function.

Cloves provide a significant amount of the mineral manganese. Manganese helps your body manage the enzymes that help repair your bones and produce hormones. Manganese can also act as an antioxidant that protects your body from free radicals.

Brew cloves for 10 minutes at 70 degrees to 100 degrees.

Disclaimer: Eugenol can sometimes interact with medication, such as Warfarin. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, avoid consuming clove oil or clove tea. Cloves may also affect blood sugar levels. In people with diabetes, excessive amounts of eugenol can cause hypoglycemia. Please consult your healthcare professional if you are taking any other prescription medications before its use.

If you require specific advice on any Tettiera branded product, please contact Customer Support on [email protected]. This information is supplied for personal use only.