Take 2 whole cloves and slightly crush them using a mortar and pestle. Crushing the cloves helps release their essential oils and beneficial compounds.
Boil the Water:
In a small saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil.
Add Ingredients:
Once the water is boiling, add the crushed cloves. If you’re using ginger, add a small piece (about 1 inch) of fresh ginger, sliced thinly. Ginger complements cloves and adds additional health benefits.
Simmer:
Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the cloves and ginger to infuse their flavors and beneficial compounds into the water.
Strain:
After simmering, strain the liquid into a cup to remove the cloves and ginger pieces.
Add Optional Ingredients:
If desired, add a teaspoon of honey to sweeten the elixir and a slice of lemon for a refreshing taste. Both honey and lemon also have their own health benefits, such as soothing the throat and boosting vitamin C intake.
Enjoy:
Sip the clove elixir slowly. It’s best to drink this first thing in the morning to maximize its health benefits.
Benefits of Cloves:
Antioxidant Powerhouse: Cloves are rich in antioxidants, which help fight free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body.
Anti-inflammatory Properties: Cloves contain eugenol, a compound that has strong anti-inflammatory effects.
Digestive Aid: Cloves can help improve digestion by increasing the secretion of digestive enzymes.
Boosts Immunity: Regular consumption of cloves can help strengthen the immune system due to their antiviral and antibacterial properties.
Improves Oral Health: Cloves have been traditionally used to relieve toothaches and improve oral health due to their analgesic properties.
Notes:
While consuming 2 cloves daily can offer numerous health benefits, it’s important to consume them in moderation. Excessive consumption of cloves can lead to adverse effects.
If you have any health conditions or are on medication, consult your healthcare provider before adding cloves to your daily routine.
