The Encyclopedia of Crystals, Herbs, and New Age Elements: An A to Z Guide to New Age Elements and How to Use Them - Adams Media 2016

Clove
The Power of Scent: Essential Oils

ORIGINS

Like the spice discussed in Chapter 2, clove essential oil comes from the flower bud of the evergreen tree Syzygium aromaticum. Clove leaf oil is also used, but its effect is milder than that of the flower bud. This essential oil has a sweet, spicy fragrance.

HISTORY/LORE

Cloves were found in Syrian pottery dating back to 1720 B.C.E. It was once believed that cinnamon was the bark, clove was the flower, and nutmeg was the fruit of the same tree. Cloves were one of the “big four” most valuable spices during the medieval era, along with nutmeg, cinnamon, and pepper.

USES

Healing Uses: Clove boosts the immune and digestive systems and offers antioxidant support. Like cinnamon, clove contains large amounts of eugenol, a natural antiseptic and anesthetic. Eugenol is used in the dental industry to numb the gums. To stimulate circulation and soothe muscular pain, rub clove essential oil on the affected area.

Personal/Spiritual Growth: Clove gets to the root of pain and discomfort—physical or emotional. It works with the solar plexus, heart, and throat chakras to fortify the self, expand inner strength and vision, and draw out personal truth. Once the truth has emerged, you will feel inspired to take action in that direction.