Clove, locally known as Grambu or Karayambu in Kerala, holds a special place in the kitchens and traditional medicine cabinets of the region. These small dried floral buds of the Eugenia caryophyllata tree carry a rich aroma and powerful properties. Unlike generic spices, cloves offer a multifaceted role in Kerala’s culinary heritage and health practices. Their deep fragrance, distinct taste, and longevity make them indispensable in households across the state.
Integral part, used in both veg and non-veg dishes
Traditional Sweets
Used in payasams and deep-fried snacks for flavour
Rice Preparations
Added to biryanis and ghee rice for aroma
Homemade Pickles
Infuses oil with its pungent fragrance
Tea Additive
Occasionally added to spiced teas or ‘chukku kaapi’
Medicinal Uses of Clove
Toothache relief
Clove oil is applied directly to relieve pain
Crushed clove leaves also provide temporary comfort
Digestive aid
Clove oil helps relieve acidity and indigestion
Often used in home remedies with warm water
Supports liver health
Traditional remedies include cloves in liver tonics
Promotes detoxification processes
Regulates blood sugar
Used in controlled diets for managing sugar levels
Popular in natural healing communities
Medicinal Benefits of Clove
Health Benefit
How Clove Helps
Toothache
Numbs the pain and disinfects the affected area
Indigestion
Eases bloating and helps digestion
Liver Function
Supports liver detox with antioxidants
Blood Sugar Control
Improves insulin function in traditional use
Oral Hygiene
Used in mouthwashes and toothpaste formulas
Nutritional Composition of Clove
High in antioxidants
Protects body cells from damage caused by free radicals
Source of fibre
Aids in digestion and gut health
Contains essential vitamins
Vitamin K and Vitamin C are present in small amounts
Rich in minerals
Includes manganese, calcium, and iron
Nutrients Found in Cloves
Nutrient
Role in Health
Antioxidants
Fights oxidative stress, boosts immunity
Fibre
Improves digestion and supports bowel health
Manganese
Essential for bone health and enzyme function
Vitamin K
Helps in blood clotting and bone metabolism
Iron
Vital for oxygen transport in the blood
Availability and Storage
Available in sealed packs
Found in local markets, supermarkets, and Ayurvedic stores
Long shelf life
Can be preserved for years without losing aroma or strength
Easy to store
Requires no refrigeration; airtight containers are sufficient
Clove Availability and Storage Facts
Aspect
Details
Packaging
Sealed plastic or glass jars
Shelf Life
2–3 years without significant loss in quality
Availability
Year-round in Kerala
Best Storage Practice
Store in a cool, dry, and dark place
Form Sold
Whole cloves and powdered varieties
Economic and Market Aspects
Price varies with the season
Harvest season and weather influence cost
Quality determines price
Larger, well-dried buds fetch a higher market rate
Worthwhile investment
Small amounts deliver a strong flavour and multiple uses
Economic Details of Cloves
Factor
Impact on Price and Value
Harvest Season
Affects supply, which influences pricing
Bud Size & Quality
Determines the market rate per kilogram
Storage Conditions
Affects resale value and shelf life
Consumer Demand
Higher during festival seasons and traditional functions
Branding and Packaging
Branded cloves may cost more due to quality assurance
Cultural Significance in Kerala
Used in traditional remedies
Passed down through generations in local households
Part of festive dishes
Cloves hold a presence in religious and wedding meals
Linked with Ayurveda
Included in several Ayurvedic formulations and tonics
Cultural Relevance of Clove in Kerala
Context
Clove Usage
Festivals
Included in festive cooking and sweet making
Traditional Healing
Central to home remedies and family traditions
Ayurvedic Use
Mixed in decoctions and herbal oils
Daily Life
Often used in tea and kitchen spice blends
Marriage Feasts
Enhances the aroma of rice and meat preparations
Final Thoughts
Clove, or Grambu, is far more than a kitchen spice in Kerala. This tiny bud delivers flavour, health, and tradition in every use. Its presence in both sweet and savoury dishes reflects the rich culinary culture of the region, while its healing qualities secure its place in traditional medicine. Affordable, potent, and aromatic, clove continues to be a valuable addition to every Malayali household.
