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I’ve heard that cloves are good for your teeth. True?
By: Jennifer Hazard
Clove oil, available at pharmacies and supermarkets, has antibacterial properties and is indeed a time-honored home remedy for tooth pain.
But new findings also show that this aromatic spice is good for your whole body too: The phenolic components of cloves make it a powerful source of nutrition. And yes, that means cloves are good for your teeth.
According to research from Miguel Hernandez University in Spain, cloves offer the highest levels of antioxidants of common spices, helping prevent premature aging and cancer. In fact, using spices like cloves to flavor your foods can benefit your health in the long term. Diane Hartle, associate professor at the University of Georgia College of Pharmacy, recommends seasoning foods liberally with herbs and spices to increase the medicinal value of your meal.
Use whole cloves with holiday favorites like honey-baked ham, and powdered cloves for delicious pumpkin pie. Or try drinking traditional chai -- a black tea mixed with cloves, cinnamon, cardamom and nutmeg -- for a comforting winter drink.
Photo: @iStockphoto.com/HeikeKampe
Jennifer Hazard has written for Martha Stewart Living and various regional magazines and newspapers, including Maine Food & Lifestyle and Vermont Life. She frequently contributes to Oral Care and Health Daily.
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