Aromatherapy involves the use of scents of herbs and other plants for alternative healing. Most commonly, oils from the herbs and plants are distilled using steam or water, producing concentrated essential oils. The aromas of the essential oils are typically inhaled or massaged into the skin, and are rarely ingested. Clove is a popular choice for aromatherapy, and has been used for its aromatic properties for thousands of years.
Aromatherapy is not a replacement for medical treatment. Check with your doctor before using clove oil, or any essential oil, to treat any condition or disease.
Definition
The clove is the bud of the aromatic Eugenia aromatica tree, an evergreen that is thought to have originated in China and India. This slender evergreen can grow up to 12m tall, according to Julia Lawless, author of "The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils." Clove producers remove the buds from the tree and dry them to produce commercial cloves.
Production
Clove oil, the essential oil commonly used in aromatherapy, is produced by suspending the dried buds and leaves of the Eugenia aromatica in a container. Steam is then applied to the buds and leaves, which causes them to release oils into the container, according to Lawless.
Active Compound
The active compound of clove essentail oil is called eugenol, notes Michael Castleman, author of "The Healing Herbs." While dried clove buds may contain only 20 to 30 percent eugenol by weight, clove essential oil contains 60 to 90 percent eugenol.
Uses
Because eugenol has antifungal and antiseptic properties, traditional Chinese medicine practitioners applied clove essential oil to the skin to treat skin infections and athlete's foot, notes Lawless. Current topical aromatherapy uses of clove oil include treatment of acne, insect bites, cuts, burns and toothaches. It also appears as a fragrance and antiseptic in toothpastes, mouthwashes and oral pain relief medications.
Clove oil may be warmed and inhaled to relieve the symptoms of respiratory illnesses and conditions such as bronchitis, asthma, influenza and colds. Inhalation may help clear respiratory infections and soothe the throat and nasal passages.
Risks
Although eugenol is considered a potent antiseptic and antifungal compound, it may pose health risks. According to Castleman, clove essential oil may encourage the growth of benign and cancerous tumors. It may produce rashes when applied topically. Castleman advises against taking clove oil internally. It can cause severe stomach upset and diarrhea.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Aromatherapy
- "The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils"; Julia Lawless; 1995
- "The Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 1991
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