Herbs & Spices

Cloves (Ground)

97Health
Score

A+

Ground cloves are an intensely aromatic flower-bud spice with extraordinary manganese and eugenol content, delivering powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic effects.

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Why Cloves (Ground) scores 97

Nutrient density35

Protein quality7

Fiber content10

Healthy fats6

Bioactive compounds14

Glycemic impact10

Top nutrients

Manganese2614.3Vitamin K118.2Iron65.7Magnesium61.7Vitamin E58.8

Nutrition

per_100g

274

Calories

Protein

65.5g

Carbs

13g

Fat

33.9g

Fiber

Health benefits

Provides exceptional antioxidant protection

strong evidence

Eugenol and dense polyphenols give cloves one of the highest ORAC values of any food, neutralizing free radicals and reducing oxidative stress

Acts as a natural analgesic and antiseptic

strong evidence

Eugenol blocks pain-signaling sodium channels and has antibacterial action, the basis for clove oil's long use in dental pain relief

Reduces inflammation

moderate evidence

Eugenol and beta-caryophyllene inhibit COX-2 and NF-κB-driven inflammatory cytokine production

Supplies abundant manganese and vitamin K

strong evidence

Very high manganese (60mg/100g) and vitamin K (142mcg/100g) support bone formation, antioxidant enzyme function, and proper calcium utilization

Pairs well with

·Pair with cinnamon and nutmeg in warm spice blends because their complementary phenolics layer aroma and compound antioxidant intake
·Combine with citrus and apples because eugenol's warmth balances acidity and its oils infuse fruit dishes deeply
·Add to slow-braised meats and stocks because eugenol is fat-soluble and disperses fully during long, gentle cooking

Practical tips

·Best timing: anytime
·Use very sparingly—cloves are among the most potent spices and overuse turns dishes bitter and numbing
·Grind whole cloves fresh for maximum eugenol aroma; pre-ground powder fades quickly
·Steep whole cloves in warm liquids and remove before serving to control intensity
·Store airtight and dark to preserve the volatile eugenol-rich essential oil

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