The dried, aromatic, immature flower buds of the evergreen clove tree (Syzygium aromaticum), native to the Molucca Islands, have been used since early times as a breath sweetener; a comforter for heart, liver, stomach and bowels; a remedy for ...
* Please Note: This information is based partly on Traditional Medicine which uses natural materials to support health. This information has not been evaluated or approved by the FDA. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These products are intended to support general well being and are not intended to treat, diagnose, mitigate, prevent, or cure any condition or disease. If conditions persist, please seek advice from your medical doctor.
Description
The dried, aromatic, immature flower buds of the evergreen clove tree (Syzygium aromaticum), native to the Molucca Islands, have been used since early times as a breath sweetener; a comforter for heart, liver, stomach and bowels; a remedy for nausea, colic, flatulence and diarrhoea; a preventive for paralysis of the tongue, inflammation of the gums, and loosening of the teeth. Rose water flavored with cloves was a favorite eyewash.
Clove (Syzygium aromaticum)
Plant Family
Myraceae.
Synonyms
Eugenia aromatica, E. caryophyllata, E. caryophyllus.
Description and Distribution
A slender evergreen tree with brilliant red flowers, attaining a height of about 20 feet (6 m). When dried, the flower buds turn reddy-brown and are rich in essential oil. The tree is believed to be native to Indonesia, but is extensively cultivated in other tropical countries such as the Philippines, the Molucca Islands, Madagascar and the West Indies.
Extraction Method
Steam distillation of the buds. Lower grade oils are also extracted from the leaves, stalks and stems.
Nature of the Oil
Clove bud: a pale yellow liquid. The aroma is sweet and spicy with a pleasantly sharp top-note. Clove leaf: a dark amber liquid with a harsh dry odour. Clove stem: a pale yellow liquid whose odour is reminiscent of clove bud oil. The odour effect of clove bud oil is warming and stimulating; a reputed aphrodisiac.
Main Constituents
Clove oils contain an extremely high proportion of the potentially caustic eugenol. Clove bud (the preferred oil for aromatherapy): eugenol (up to 90 per cent), eugenyl acetate, caryophyllene. Clove leaf: eugenol (up to 90 per cent), little or no eugenyl acetate (the leaf oil is used by the chemical industry to extract eugenol). Clove stem: eugenol (up to 95 per cent), with other minor constituents.
Although some aromatherapists use clove bud oil on the skin for conditions such as acne, athlete's foot and as an insect repellent, I would not recommend this (see 'Cautions'). However, it can be used in a vaporiser as a room scent or fumigant, or as a first-aid measure for toothache while awaiting dental treatment.
Blends Well With
Citrus essences, other spices, rose, vanilla, ylang ylang. The oil is highly odoriferous, so use sparingly.
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Directions
All pure essential oils should be used with care. Do not apply directly into skin. A 2% dilution of essential oils to a base of carrier oil or lotion is recommended for all skincare and massage preparations.
Ingredients
100% Pure Clove Bud Essential Oil
Cautions
Clove oil is highly irritating to skin and mucous membranes. Therefore, it is advisable for the home user to avoid skin applications and steam inhalations of any type of clove oil. However, it can be used in a vaporiser as a fumigant or room scent.
Additional Information
Essential Oils by RedSafari.com are 100% Pure Natural Essences derived from the highest quality fruits, flowers, leaves, spices, herbs and roots. Our essential oil distillers and growers are located around the world, operating ethically, organically and chemical-free.
RedSafari.com Essential Oils Are Not Tested On Animals.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Products are intended to support general well being and are not intended to treat, diagnose, mitigate, prevent, or cure any condition or disease. If conditions persist, please seek advice from your medical doctor. The essence of the current American rule on Traditional Uses is, as stated by FTC, "Claims based on historical or traditional use should be substantiated by confirming scientific evidence, or should be presented in such a way that consumers understand that the sole basis for the claim is a history of use of the product for a particular purpose."
