The clove tree is monoecious, flowers are hermaphrodite and self-pollinating. The tree matures between 8-10 years after planting. Clove trees live for more than 100 years, the oldest tree recorded is aged 375 years in Indonesia. Generally, it takes 20-30 years for clove to attain full bearing. The best quality cloves for use as a spice are grown in the wetter climates where annual rainfall is in excess of 1,500mm and usually in the range 3,000 – 4,000mm
Cloves, and the essential oil contained in them, are often used medicinally. A spicy, warming, stimulant herb, it is strongly antiseptic, relieves pain, controls nausea and vomiting, improves digestion, protects against intestinal parasites, and causes uterine contractions. Cloves are taken internally as a tea in the treatment of internal parasites, stomach upsets, chills, and impotence. The flower buds are chewed to freshen the breath or ease the pain of toothache.
The essential oil is applied externally in the treatment of toothache, headache, cold, arthritis, and rheumatism. It is also useful for treating ulcers, bruises, burns, bronchitis, asthma, minor infections, and colic. It is sometimes used to ease nausea. Two little-known compounds in clove oil have shown ‘strong activity’ against bacteria associated with plaque formation and gum disease. Clove oil is very potent and can cause gum irritation, it is advisable to dilute it with equal amounts of vegetable oil. For infants and even milder dilution is required. Use should be avoided during pregnancy, or if with sensitive skin
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