Clove oil

Common Name:  Clove oil

Botanical Name:  Syzygium aromaticum

Other Names:  Laung, Clove, caryophyllus oil, Cloves

Introduction

It is an essential oil obtained from the clove plant. Clove tree is said to be native of Maluku but now it is cultivated in Sri Lanka, Pakistan, India, Indonesia and Medagascar. It is an evergreen tree which attains a height of 8 to 10 meters. It has large leaves. The buds of the flowers are pale in colour but later on become green and get bright red colour when they are collected. Clove oil is obtained by the method of steam distillation from the leaves.

The oil is transparent liquid but sometimes its colour is pale yellowish brown. It has a spicy smell and a herbal taste.

Uses of Clove oil

Aromatherapy: It is a very strong oil and therefore must be used very carefully in aromatherapy. Usually it is used in dilute form mixed with other vegetable oils. It is used as a stimulator of the mind and is generally used as a massage for the treatment of depression. It is also used in the treatment of arthritis, rheumatism, respiratory problems and leg ulcers.

Medicinal uses: When applied to the cavity of the decayed tooth it gives immediate relief in toothache. It is also successfully used for many skin disorders like acne and pimples etc. It is also found effective in giving relief in respiratory problems like asthma, tuberculosis and bronchitis. It has antiseptic and pain relieving properties and therefore is used in bruises, burns and cuts and as a pain reliever. It stops bad breath and therefore forms an essential part of any herbal tooth paste.

Precautions: It is a very strong oil and should always be used in not more than 1 percent concentration.