To accompany the cold season
Combined with lemon, honey, or other spices, it adds a comforting aroma to hot drinks. The goal: to naturally support the body when temperatures drop.
A little antioxidant boost
A pinch of ground cloves in a dessert, compote, or curry is enough to benefit from its valuable compounds. There's no need to overdo it: it's a very concentrated spice.
For fresher breath
Chewing a clove very slowly after a meal is an old grandmother's trick. The taste is intense, but the sensation of freshness in the mouth lingers for a long time.
To relieve tension
Mixed with a vegetable oil, it is used in some homemade massage oils. Applied warm to the neck or shoulders, it provides a warm and relaxing sensation.
3 quick recipes with cloves
Comforting infusion
Bring a cup of water to a simmer, add 4 to 5 lightly crushed cloves, let it steep for 8 to 10 minutes, strain, and then add a little honey if desired. Ideal after a meal or before bedtime.
Scented vapor for more free breathing
In a bowl of very hot water, add about ten cloves and optionally a pinch of salt. Place your face over the bowl, cover your head with a towel, and breathe gently for a few minutes.
Clove-flavored honey
In a small jar, place a few whole cloves and cover with liquid honey. Let it infuse for at least a week. A spoonful in herbal tea adds sweetness and spicy notes.
Precautions and common sense usage
As with all concentrated spices, moderation is key. Culinary use or infusions are generally well tolerated by adults, but highly concentrated forms (such as essential oils) require caution and dilution in a vegetable oil.
