Spices have been a quintessential part of our day-to-day cooking, but there are certain spices that are a lot more than flavour or taste enhancers. Well, clove is one such spice, which has been used for its unique medicinal properties and as an active ingredient in Ayurveda and home remedies, here are some simple ways to use this spice to improve metabolism and help lose weight effectively.
Why clove?
Clove is a powerhouse of nutrients such as manganese, vitamin K, and fiber. This spice is known for its potent medicinal properties such as reducing digestive issues, lowering inflammation, fight bacteria, and promote oral health. Its active compounds, such as eugenol works as an antioxidant and also has analgesic properties, which makes it a valuable addition to culinary dishes and natural remedies alike.
Clove-infused Water: Add a few whole cloves to a jug of water and let it infuse overnight. Drink this clove-infused water throughout the day to promote hydration and boost metabolism, aiding in weight loss.
Clove Tea: Prepare clove tea by simmering a few whole cloves in hot water for 5-10 minutes. Strain and drink this aromatic tea regularly to improve digestion, suppress appetite, and enhance metabolism, all of which can support weight loss efforts.
Spice Blends: Incorporate ground cloves into homemade spice blends and use them to season your meals. Cloves add a warm, slightly spicy flavor to dishes like soups, stews, curries, and stir-fries, making them more satisfying and flavorful without adding extra calories.
Smoothies: Add a pinch of ground cloves to your favorite smoothie recipes. Cloves not only enhance the flavor but also provide metabolism-boosting properties and aid in digestion, helping you stay full for longer and avoid overeating.
Baked Goods: Sprinkle ground cloves into baked goods such as muffins, cakes, and cookies. Cloves add a hint of warmth and spice to sweet treats while offering potential benefits for weight loss due to their metabolism-boosting effects.
Infused Oils: Make clove-infused oil by steeping whole cloves in olive oil or coconut oil over low heat. Use this aromatic oil for cooking or drizzling over salads and vegetables to add flavor and promote satiety, which can aid in weight management.
Homemade Chai: Prepare homemade chai tea by simmering black tea with spices like cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger in water or milk. Cloves not only impart a distinctive flavor but also offer digestive benefits that can support weight loss by improving gut health.