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Cloves Powder

Also known as: Syzygium aromaticum, Clove, Clove powder, Clove bud powder

Overview

Clove powder is derived from the dried flower buds of the clove tree (Syzygium aromaticum), native to the Maluku Islands in Indonesia. It is widely cultivated in tropical regions and has been traditionally used as a spice and in folk medicine. Clove powder is rich in bioactive compounds, primarily eugenol, along with β-caryophyllene, gallic acid, and kaempferol. Research suggests potential analgesic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiviral properties. Studies include in vitro, animal, and some human trials, though high-quality clinical trials are limited. It is considered a phytochemical-rich botanical supplement with moderate to advanced research maturity, but more systematic reviews and meta-analyses on human supplementation are needed to confirm its benefits.

Benefits

Clove powder exhibits several evidence-based benefits, primarily supported by preclinical studies. It demonstrates anti-inflammatory effects by reducing inflammatory markers like TNF-α and inhibiting NF-κB signaling pathways, as shown in animal models. Its antimicrobial properties are effective against pathogens such as *Salmonella enteritidis* and *Listeria monocytogenes*. Eugenol and other constituents contribute to antithrombotic effects by inhibiting platelet aggregation, suggesting cardiovascular benefits. Clove also acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from oxidative stress. Additionally, it has shown immunostimulatory effects in animal models. While these benefits are promising, human data are limited, and further clinical trials are needed to confirm these effects and establish clinical significance.

How it works

Clove powder's mechanism of action involves several biological pathways. It inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α and suppresses the NF-κB signaling pathway, reducing inflammation. Its antimicrobial action is attributed to protein denaturation and membrane disruption by eugenol and other phenolics. Clove also inhibits platelet aggregation via thromboxane and prostaglandin biosynthesis blockade, contributing to its antithrombotic effects. It modulates the immune system by enhancing cellular and humoral responses and provides antioxidant defense through radical scavenging. Eugenol's lipophilic nature facilitates absorption, but detailed pharmacokinetics in humans are not well-characterized.

Side effects

Clove powder is generally recognized as safe when used in culinary amounts. However, higher doses or concentrated extracts may cause irritation or toxicity. Common side effects include possible gastrointestinal discomfort and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Uncommon side effects may involve mucosal irritation and skin sensitization with topical use. Rare side effects, primarily observed in animal studies at very high doses, include hepatotoxicity or systemic toxicity. Clove powder may interact with anticoagulants due to its antiplatelet activity, requiring caution. It is contraindicated in individuals with bleeding disorders or those on blood thinners without medical supervision. Limited data exist for use during pregnancy, lactation, and in children, so caution is advised.

Dosage

There is no established consensus on optimal dosage ranges for clove powder in humans. Culinary use is generally considered safe. Animal studies have used clove oil at 50–100 mg/kg, but these dosages are not directly translatable to human use. Due to the varying potency of whole clove powder, essential oil, and extracts, caution is advised, especially with the more concentrated essential oil. The lipophilic nature of eugenol suggests better absorption with fats. Effects have been observed with repeated dosing over days to weeks in animal studies. Human maximum safe dose is not clearly defined, and therapeutic doses should be approached cautiously.

FAQs

Is clove powder safe for daily use?

Culinary amounts are generally safe for daily use. However, therapeutic doses should be approached with caution due to potential side effects and interactions.

Can clove powder reduce inflammation?

Animal and in vitro studies suggest anti-inflammatory effects. However, human evidence is limited, and more research is needed to confirm these effects.

Does clove powder help with infections?

Lab studies show antimicrobial and antiviral activity. Clinical efficacy in treating infections has not been confirmed through rigorous human trials.

Are there any risks with blood thinners?

Yes, clove's antiplatelet effects may increase the risk of bleeding, especially when combined with blood-thinning medications. Consult a healthcare professional.

How quickly does clove powder work?

Animal studies show effects within days to weeks. Human data on the time course of effects are currently lacking, so it is difficult to determine how quickly it works in humans.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8036487/ – This review highlights clove's anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antithrombotic properties, emphasizing eugenol's inhibition of platelet aggregation and inflammatory cytokines. Animal studies showed significant reduction in lung inflammation and immune enhancement. The review notes promising antiviral effects against HSV and HCV protease inhibition but calls for more clinical trials.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9521177/ – This study details clove essential oil's antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties, attributing effects largely to eugenol and β-caryophyllene. It includes in vivo wound healing and anti-inflammatory evidence in mice, and discusses mechanisms such as protein denaturation and membrane disruption in microbes. The review underscores the potential but notes the need for clinical validation.
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/16/6/756 – This meta-analysis included 77 studies on Mediterranean herbs and spices, but specific high-quality RCT data on clove powder supplementation in humans are scarce or not separately analyzed. This indicates a research gap for clove powder in clinical trials, highlighting the need for more focused research.
https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-health-benefits-of-cloves-89050 – This article provides an overview of the potential health benefits of cloves, including their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It highlights traditional uses and some of the compounds responsible for these effects, such as eugenol. However, it also emphasizes the need for more research to confirm these benefits in humans.
https://econtent.hogrefe.com/doi/10.1024/0300-9831/a000607 – This study investigates the effects of clove oil on various health parameters. It provides insights into the potential therapeutic applications of clove oil and its active compounds. The research contributes to the understanding of clove's pharmacological properties and its role in traditional medicine.