In the fall and winter, it’s easy to… Runny nose, hoarseness and sore throat are constant companions during these months. However, there is a natural way to help yourself and relieve throat pain. An inconspicuous product that we add to mulled wine can turn out to be a real salvation.
Cloves are an aromatic spice obtained from the dried buds of the clove tree. It has a characteristic smell and taste, which is why it is often used in the kitchen – especially in the autumn and winter.
The most valuable ingredient of cloves is eugenol, which gives them their smell and taste, and at the same time has an anesthetic and antiseptic effect. They also contain many vitamins and minerals, including potassium, calcium, zinc, magnesium and vitamins A, C, D, E, K and B vitamins.
Cloves are used in Chinese medicine to improve digestive processes. However, they are best at relieving throat discomfort.
Cloves have analgesic, antibacterial and antiviral properties. Therefore, they are perfect for rinsing a sore throat. Preparing the infusion is not difficult – we make it similarly to regular tea.
All you need is a teaspoon of dried cloves and a glass of boiling water. The brewing time for whole cloves should be about 7-10 minutes. You can gargle with the prepared infusion every few hours.
You can also drink it safely. It is best to wait until it cools slightly and add honey, then drink slowly so that it has a soothing effect on the throat. Clove water can also be prepared from ground spice.
Some people also recommend chewing cloves slowly to help numb a sore throat. The procedure can also be repeated prophylactically to reduce the risk of upper respiratory tract infections. Just 2-3 cloves twice a day is enough. Their taste is slightly spicy and tart, but you can get used to it.
