All parts of this glossy, green-leaved evergreen tree smell of aromatic cloves when it is bruised. Its fragrant cream summer flowers turn a deep-pink when the stamens drop.
These beautiful flowers are worn by some Asian women in their hair.
Its spice is a sun dried, nail-shaped flower bud and those that are of good quality should release a little oil when pressed with a fingernail.
It is also a powerful local antiseptic and mild anesthetic, which may be http://www.gopjn.com/t/2-17528-45098-31711?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthherbs.com%2Fproduct.php%3Fpid%3D6225%26n%3DEssential-Oil-of-Clove"target=_blank">used externally in toothache.
Uses:
The Essential oil (spicy sweet oil) is water-distilled from its buds, although lower grade oils can be extracted from the leaves, stems and stalks.
It is used commercially in perfumery, cosmetics, food, drink, and dental preparations, such as toothpaste.