Cloves/ Laung

Here are detailed insights on Cloves / Laung:


General Information

  • Botanical Name: Syzygium aromaticum

  • Common Names: Cloves, Laung (Hindi), Lavang (Marathi), Grambu (Tamil/Malayalam)

  • Family: Myrtaceae

  • Origin: Native to Indonesia, widely used in Indian, Asian, African, and Middle Eastern cuisines

  • Form: Dried flower buds

  • Flavor & Aroma: Warm, pungent, and sweet-spicy, with a strong aroma due to eugenol


Culinary Uses

  • Used whole or ground in dishes like biryani, garam masala, curries, and desserts

  • Common in pickling, baking, chai (tea), and spiced beverages

  • Often tempered in oil or ghee for flavor infusion


Health Benefits

  1. Dental Health – Eugenol acts as a natural painkiller and antiseptic for toothaches and gum infections

  2. Aids Digestion – Stimulates digestive enzymes, relieves gas, bloating, and nausea

  3. Antioxidant-Rich – Fights free radicals, supports immunity and cell protection

  4. Anti-inflammatory – Useful in treating sore throat, arthritis, and respiratory inflammation

  5. Blood Sugar Control – Helps manage insulin sensitivity

  6. Boosts Liver Health – Protects the liver from oxidative stress

  7. Respiratory Relief – Acts as an expectorant in cough syrups and steam inhalation

  8. Improves Metabolism – Enhances circulation and boosts metabolism


Nutritional Value (per 100g approx.)

  • Calories: ~274 kcal

  • Fiber: 34g

  • Carbohydrates: 66g

  • Protein: 6g

  • Rich in: Manganese, vitamin C, vitamin K, calcium, eugenol (essential oil)