Clove leaf essential oil is extracted from Eugenia caryophyllata, alsoknown as Syzygium aromaticum, Eugenia aromatica, E. Carophyllus of theMyrtaceae family. It is extracted by steam distillation of the leaves. It has awarm, strong, spicy smell and the oil is colorless to pale yellow with a mediumto watery viscosity. The whole tree is highly aromatic. A native of Medagaskaand Indonesia, Eugenia caryophyllata is an evergreen tree that grows to about 10meters tall and has bright green leaves. It was often used by the Greeks, Romanand the Chinese, to ease toothache and as a breath sweetener. The main chemicalcomponents of clove oil are eugenol, eugenol acetate, iso-eugenol andcaryophyllene.
It is a stronggermicide and is used in dental preparations, as a fragrance component intoothpastes, soaps, toiletries, lotions, massage oils, cosmetics and perfumes.It is extensively employed as a flavor ingredient in major food categories,alcoholic and soft drinks. It is also used in the production of printing ink,glue and varnish. It is used in diffusers, potpourri, scent, air fresheners,body fragrance, perfume oils, aromatherapy products, bath oils, towel scenting,spa's, incense, light rings, laundry, facial steams, hair treatments,and more.Clove oil helps keep fish moths at bay, is used as an insect repellent and alsokills ants.
Clove oil isanthelmintic, antibiotic, anti-sphrodisiac, emetic, antihistaminic,anti-rheumatic, anti-neuralgic, antioxidant, antiseptic, counter-irritant,expectorant, stimulant, spasmolytic, stomachic, vermifuge, analgesic,antispasmodic, carminative, anti-infectious, uterine and tonic.