Essential Oil of the Month: Clove Bud
Clove Bud: (Eugenia caryophyllus)
“Embarking on a journey enriched by cloves is an embrace of their multifaceted essence.” Esha
The unmistakable warm, spicy scent of Clove Bud may awaken happy holiday memories of food, family, fun and festivities. Its pungent fragrance is energetic and stimulating, encouraging us to move forward and make things happen. It inspires a feeling of inner warmth.
For some the scent of Clove may have an association with the antiseptic environment of a dental office. This correlation is relevant as the traditional use of Clove oil has a long history relating to dentistry.
“The Caesars had seen it imported,
Though they knew not from whence it came.
They brought it by galley from Palestine
To relieve their dental pain.”
- Neil Stewart McLeod
Today you may find it in toothpastes and mouthwashes. However, the essential oil of Clove Bud is not recommended for oral use unless under the explicit direction of a qualified professional, or even for topical use without a carrier, as its potent constituents can cause reaction. With that said, it is those very constituents, particularly eugenol, that make Clove Bud effective in many uses.
The name Clove is derived from the Latin term “clavus,” or “Nail” as it was referred to in ancient times. Indeed, the dried bud does resemble a nail.
Clove has an impressive history that dates back centuries, with mentions in ancient Chinese, Egyptian, and East Indian Ayuvedic practices for its extensive list of health benefits, to mask bad odors, as well as to bring good luck.
In China, records trace the use of cloves back to the Han dynasty of the early second century BCE, where they were chewed as breath fresheners. In fact, it was customary for court envoys to hold clove buds in their mouths when speaking with the emperor.
Ancient Romans and Greeks often used cloves in celebrations to bring joy and good luck.
From its origins in the islands of Indonesia the clove trade spread quickly. By the 17th century Clove Buds were so valued that in Britain it was said to be worth its weight in gold.
The essential oil is steam distilled from the pink unopened flower buds of the clove tree which dry and turn a deep brown color.
Clove Bud essential oil is most commonly used in Aromatherapy, not to be confused with clove leaf oil which has a less sweet scent and is more prone to produce sensitivities and undesirable reactions.
Used in skincare, Clove Bud essential oil can be useful in improving dry skin. As stated earlier, its potent constituents are what make it useful but also what can sensitize skin. So, it is important to properly dilute it in a carrier. Many people find it helpful as a natural agent that can reduce the appearance of tired looking eyes, puffy skin and stretch marks.
Myth and Folklore: In Indonesian folklore, it is believed that cloves possess protective powers against evil spirits. It was thought that burning it as incense would stop others from gossiping about you.
“The incense of cloves sanctifies the Indonesian air, a ritual of purification and protection.” Esha
Other cultures believed that burning Clove Bud as incense would attract financial abundance. Today we can use our home diffusers in this manner without the smoke and fire of incense. Combine Clove Bud essential oil with milder essential oils such as sweet orange, grapefruit and/or ylang ylang.
In ancient times Clove buds were referred to as the “Spice of the gods,” having associations with Greek gods Zeus and Apollo. In East Indian mythology, cloves are considered to be the embodiment of the god Vishnu's divine power and are associated with the Hindu goddess Lakshmi who symbolizes beauty, wealth, and fortune.
Various folk tales and myths surround Clove as it was believed to be imbued with the magical powers of protection, love, and abundance. Historically it has been believed to enhance relationships, attract wealth, and foster harmony and prosperity in one’s life.
Clove bud has been reputed to have aphrodisiac qualities. With Clove’s association with the Fire element and that of the Sun, its intense red-hot fragrance may stoke the fires of passion. Ancients would often include it in love potions or wear clove buds in their pockets to attract a lover.
Popular Clove Bud Infused Products from Body Bliss
PRECAUTIONS: CAUTIONS: Always dilute properly, as it may be a possible skin irritant. Do a patch test before using. Not to be used during pregnancy, nursing, for children under the age of 12, or for those with an existing medical condition, particularly bleeding disorders.
