What is Clove Oil?
Clove oil is extracted from the dried flower buds of clove (Eugenia caryophyllata). It has numerous medicinal properties and is used topically for pain relief. The oil is rich in plant-derived phenylpropanoids, with the main compound being eugenol. [1] The other bioactive compounds include thymol, carvacrol, and cinnamaldehyde. The color of clove oil ranges from pale yellow to a golden brown. It has a spicy fragrance, similar to that of cloves. The oil is also commonly used as a fragrance and flavoring agent.
Health Benefits
Although clove oil is known primarily for dental care, the benefits are not limited to it. This powerful oil can do wonders for you in multiple ways listed below.
Treats Acne
Clove oil is often recommended for acne patients as it has potent antimicrobial properties. Research shows that the oil can inhibit Staphylococcus bacteria, which can cause acne breakouts, pimples, boils, skin sores, rashes, blisters, impetigo, and Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome.
To treat acne, you can mix a few drops of clove oil with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil or jojoba oil, and apply it with the help of a cotton ball on the inflamed area. You can also mix 2-3 drops of oil with 1 teaspoon of raw honey and apply it. Rinse it off once dry.
Skin Care
Eugenol in clove oil has rejuvenating and stimulating properties, which can increase blood flow to the skin and make it look radiant. You will find it in many products for lessening the effects of aging, like wrinkles, sagging skin, and blemishes.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
The flavonoids in clove oil have potent anti-inflammatory properties. This powerful natural oil is used to treat all kinds of inflammation in the body from toothaches, inflamed gums, skin eruptions, muscle and joint pain, to inflammation in the gut.
