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Cloves (Ground)
Herbs & Spices

Cloves (Ground)

94
Health
ScoreA+

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 94

Nutrient density31
Protein quality7
Fiber content10
Healthy fats4
Bioactive compounds14
Glycemic impact10
Top nutrients

% Daily Value per a pinch (2 g)

Manganese 52%Vitamin K 2.4%Iron 1.3%Magnesium 1.2%Vitamin E 1.2%

Nutrition

per_100g

274
Calories
6g
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: Clove bioactives have no circadian dependency; the spice is used in both food and topical oral applications throughout the day.
  • ·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

Related foods

Celery Seed
97
Cilantro (Dried)
97
Cinnamon (Ground)
97
Turmeric (Ground)
97
Cayenne Pepper
96
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
96

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