Nail

Cloves are the flowers that do not open (dry buttons) Nail Tree. The name "nail" comes from the French, from the word "clou du giroflier" for small nail form with the buttons before opening.

Clove is native to the Moluccas Islands, Indonesia, formerly called "Spice Islands". Although as early as the third century BC, the Chinese used the nail, it was the Arabs who introduced this species in Europe. It should be noted that over the centuries, the nail has been one of the most valued and valuable spices in the trade, for example in the seventeenth century was even priced in gold.

Uses Nail

Its use is widespread as a spice in cuisines all over the world, either whole or ground. Although we have to moderate the amount that is used because it is a very strong spice flavor (between pungent and spicy) and very aromatic.

It is used to prepare all kinds of stews, meat, vegetables, sauces, soups, marinades and even present in the preparation of cakes, jams and hot wine.

Nail Benefits

Besides its use in the kitchen, the nail has medicinal properties. And throughout history, has been employed as a preservative for food and as a perfume (to the breath, to make incense in aromatherapy, etc..)

Mainly it is good for treating flatulence (thanks to essential oil, eugenol, it contains). And also has analgesic, antiseptic and anesthetic. Hence, there are still who uses the homemade recipe to put a clove on the tooth or tooth that hurts and hence the advice not to bite a nail because it numbs the tongue.

Finally, keep in mind that the nail, but is sold in both powder and beans, it is best if we bought over. Because the aroma and flavor are rapidly lost, it is better grinding grains employ just before.