Cloves, known in India as Laung, are one of the most powerful spices in the pantry. These tiny dried flower buds may look delicate, but they pack an intense warmth, sweet sharpness, and a hint of bitterness that can instantly transform dishes. Native to the Maluku Islands (Spice Islands) of Indonesia, cloves have travelled across centuries and continents to become a staple in Indian kitchens, Ayurvedic medicine, and even festive rituals.
Why Cloves (Laung) Are Special
- Aromatic Profile: Strong, warm, and slightly sweet with woody, peppery, and menthol-like undertones. The distinctive kick comes from eugenol, the essential oil that makes cloves one of the most potent spices.
- Culinary Power: A little goes a long way, cloves can dominate the flavour of a dish, making them a spice best used sparingly.
- Cultural Depth: From biryanis to chai, garam masala blends to festive sweets, cloves bring depth and aroma to Indian cooking.
Health Benefits of Cloves
- Digestive Aid: Cloves stimulate digestion and are often used in home remedies for nausea, bloating, and indigestion.
- Antimicrobial Properties: The eugenol oil in cloves has strong antibacterial and anti-fungal effects.
- Oral Health: Traditionally used to relieve toothaches and freshen breath.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Helps protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Blood Sugar Support: Some studies suggest cloves may improve insulin function, aiding glucose regulation.
Caveats: Things to Keep in Mind
While cloves have many benefits, moderation is key:
- Potent Active Compounds: Cloves are rich in eugenol, a strong essential oil. Excessive consumption can cause digestive discomfort, heartburn, or a burning sensation in the mouth and stomach.
- Not for Everyone: Pregnant women, children, and people on blood-thinning medications should consult a doctor before using cloves medicinally.
- Avoid Overpowering: In cooking, a few pieces are enough. Using too many cloves can overwhelm a dish’s balance.
- Allergic Sensitivity: Some individuals may have allergies or sensitivities to cloves, resulting in mouth or skin irritation. Discontinue use if symptoms appear.
Regional Names of Cloves
| Language | Name |
|---|---|
| Hindi | लौंग (Laung) |
| Tamil | கிராம்பு (Grambu) |
| Telugu | లవంగం (Lavangam) |
| Kannada | ಲವಂಗ (Lavanga) |
| Malayalam | ഗ്രാമ്പൂ (Grampu) |
| Marathi | लवंग (Lavang) |
| Gujarati | લવિંગ (Laving) |
Cooking with Cloves (Laung)
- In Everyday Cooking: Added whole to tempering for pulao, curries, and dals.
- In Spice Blends: Essential to garam masala and chai masala.
- Festive Foods: Enhances biryanis, kheers, and rich Mughlai gravies.
- Pairing Tip: Works beautifully with cinnamon, cardamom, pepper, and bay leaf for warm spice bases.
Trusted Brands for Cloves in India
- Sidapur / Malabar Coast
Notable: Premium, handpicked cloves from Thalanadu, Kottayam, Kerala, known for high oil content, deep aroma, and GI-tag efforts. Sun-dried, 100% natural, with no artificial colours or preservatives.
Ideal For: Home chefs and connoisseurs seeking authentic, flavourful cloves for Indian and global recipes. - Fabeato
Notable: Premium, freshly packed whole cloves with no fillers or artificial substances. Strong aroma and flavour, resealable packs for lasting freshness.
Ideal For: Home cooks wanting authentic taste and pantry convenience. - Wayanadcraft
Notable: Certified organic, superior grade, handpicked, and highly praised for freshness, aroma, and rich flavour. Sustainably sourced with excellent packaging.
Ideal For: Organic-focused households and anyone wanting bold, high-quality cloves for both sweet and savoury dishes. - Sri Saraswathi Organics
Notable: Certified organic cloves, minimal processing, available in multiple pack sizes, and praised for purity and aroma.
Ideal For: Organic and health-focused buyers who want quality and flexibility in purchase size. - Kerala Spices Online
Notable: Premium quality, hand-selected, 1st quality cloves from Kerala. No oil extraction, retaining original strength and character.
Ideal For: Customers preferring bold, unadulterated spice.
Storing Cloves
Keep in an airtight container away from direct sunlight. Whole cloves retain aroma longer than ground powder; crush or grind fresh for maximum flavour.
A Spice Beyond the Kitchen
Cloves aren’t just for food, they’re burned in rituals, infused in herbal teas for colds, and even used in traditional perfumes. Their warming, protective nature has made them a spice of both flavour and symbolism across cultures.
Bringing Cloves to Your Kitchen Soon
At Aara Living, we celebrate pantry staples like cloves (Laung) not just for their taste but for their cultural richness. Soon, our curated pantry range will feature hand-picked spices like these, ensuring every dish you cook carries the same warmth, purity, and tradition.
“Note: Clove oil is much more concentrated than culinary cloves. Never ingest pure clove oil or apply it undiluted to the skin as it can be toxic or cause irritation. For culinary purposes, always use whole or ground cloves.”