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We all have that one spice sitting unnoticed in the back of our kitchen cabinet. For many, it’s clove—small, dark, and often unused. Despite its humble size, clove is a powerhouse for health. It’s known for easing pain, reducing inflammation, and supporting heart health.
However, like any potent remedy, its effectiveness depends entirely on how it’s used. Missteps can easily turn this helpful spice into a source of harm.
Mistake #1: Mistaking Numbness for an Allergy
Someone hears cloves help with toothaches, pops one in their mouth, and within seconds, their tongue feels numb.
They panic, thinking it’s an allergic reaction.
In truth, that numbness is normal. It comes from eugenol, a natural compound in clove that numbs pain—similar to what dentists use. The numbness is temporary and local. Don’t let it scare you away from its benefits.
Mistake #2: Storing Cloves Improperly
Cloves lose their strength when exposed to heat, moisture, or light—which often happens if stored near the stove or in a sunny kitchen.
To preserve their power:
Store in airtight, dark containers
Keep in a cool, dry place like a pantry
Whole cloves last longer than ground ones
Pro tip: Smell them. A strong, spicy aroma means they’re still fresh.
Mistake #3: Overdoing It
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