Cloves

(S) Lavanga

(C) Ding xiang

Part Used: dried flower buds

Energetics: pungent/heating/pungent KV- P+

Tissues: plasma, muscle, marrow and nerve, reproductive

Actions: stimulant, expectorant, carminative, analgesic, aphrodisiac

Indications: colds, cough, asthma, indigestion, toothache, vomiting, hiccough, laryngitis, pharyngitis, low blood pressure, impotence

Precautions: inflammatory condition, hypertension, high Pitta

Preparation: infusion (do not boil), powder (250 to 500 mg), milk decoction

CLOVES are an effective stimulant and aromatic for the lungs and stomach. They dispel chill and disinfect the lymphatics. Along with rock candy, they are effective in colds and cough. The volatile oil is a powerful analgesic. Cloves are mildly aphrodisiac. They are very heating and their energizing effect may be a little irritating owing to their rajasic quality.