I Chew Cloves And Say Goodbye to 10 Years of Diabetes.
While cloves may help regulate blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity, they cannot cure diabetes. The information in the image regarding the “recipe” likely refers to using cloves as a natural supplement or food additive, not a cure.
Cloves and Diabetes Management
Scientific research suggests that compounds in cloves, particularly eugenol and a compound called nigricin, may offer benefits for individuals with or at risk of diabetes:
- Improved Insulin Function: Studies indicate that clove extract can help the body use the hormone insulin more efficiently to move sugar from the blood into cells.
- Lower Blood Glucose Levels: Research, including a human study with prediabetic volunteers, showed that daily consumption of a specific clove extract significantly reduced blood sugar spikes after meals. In prediabetics, it also helped lower fasting blood glucose levels.
- Antioxidant Properties: Cloves are rich in antioxidants, which help fight oxidative stress linked to chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease.
Important Precautions
- Not a Cure: Cloves are a supportive measure as part of a healthy diet and lifestyle, not a replacement for prescribed diabetes medication or medical treatment.
- Consult a Healthcare Provider: It is crucial to consult a doctor before incorporating large amounts of cloves or clove supplements into your diet, especially if you have an existing medical condition or are on medication (such as blood thinners or insulin), as high doses can interact with drugs or have side effects like dangerously low blood sugar.
- Moderation is Key: Stick to small, culinary amounts (around 1-3 whole cloves daily). Ingesting concentrated clove oil can be toxic and is generally unsafe.
Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.
Healthy Clove Recipes
Clove Tea (Clove Water)
Clove tea is a simple and effective way to regularly consume small amounts of cloves.
- Ingredients: 3 whole cloves, 1 cup of water, honey or lemon juice (optional, for taste).
- Instructions: Add the water and whole cloves to a small saucepan. Bring to a boil and simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, until the water turns a light brown color. Remove from heat, let it steep for another minute, then strain the cloves out and serve warm.
Spiced Apple Cider (Non-alcoholic)
This warm beverage is great for cold days and is a healthy alternative to sugary drinks.
- Ingredients: Apple cider, whole cloves, cinnamon sticks, cheesecloth.
- Instructions: Place about a dozen whole cloves on a double thickness of cheesecloth and tie it to form a spice bag. Add the spice bag and a few cinnamon sticks to a slow cooker filled with apple cider. Cook on low heat for 2 hours until warm and infused with spice. Discard the spice bag and cinnamon sticks before serving.
Savory Dishes (Stews and Curries)
Cloves add a depth of flavor to various main dishes and are a staple in many spice blends.
- For Curries/Lentils: Add 1-2 whole cloves along with bay leaves and cinnamon sticks when simmering dishes like chickpea (chole) curry or lentil stews. This adds subtle flavor without overwhelming the dish.
- For Roasted Vegetables: Mix a pinch of ground cloves or a few whole cloves into a spice rub for roasted cauliflower, carrots, or other root vegetables before baking. This pairs well with other spices like turmeric, cumin, and ginger.
- For Braised Meats/Casseroles: Stick a few whole cloves into an onion half or directly into meat before slow-cooking a stew or casserole. Remove the cloves and onion before serving.
