Cloves are the aromatic flower buds of a tree in the family Myrtaceae, Syzygium aromaticum. They are native to the Maluku Islands (or Moluccas) in Indonesia, and are commonly used as a spice.The flower buds initially have a pale hue, gradually turn green, then transition to a bright red when ready for harvest.Cloves are harvested at 1.5–2 centimetres (0.59–0.79 in) long, and consist of a long calyx that terminates in four spreading sepals, and four unopened petals that form a small central ball. Cloves contain fiber, vitamins, and minerals, so using whole or ground cloves to add flavor to your food can provide some important nutrients.Cloves also contain phenolic, antioxidant, anticancer and analgesic compoundsCloves are mainly Cultivated in Indonesia, Madagascar and Brazil. Currently, Indonesia is considered the World’s Largest Producer of Cloves.
| Scientific name | Syzygium aromaticum |
|---|---|
| Ayurvedic name | Lavang, Laung |
| TCM name | Ding xiang |
| Plant type | Herb |
| Harvested parts | Flowers |
| Main producer | Indonesia |
| Main use | Flavoring, Cosmetic, Perfume, Repellent |
| Taste | Pungent, Sweet |
