Eugenol - a wonder herb

Eugenol is the active ingredient found in a host of herbs and spices. If you have never heard of it before, you should pay attention.

Eugenol is antibacterial and antifungal. It helps with reproductive disorders. It protects your neurons and reduces inflammation. It has anti-cancer properties.

It protects you from oxidative stress. It has been used as anaesthesia and to relieve pain. You probably used it when you had a toothache.

Yes, if you guessed correctly, one of the many spices that has it is clove. Surprisingly, it is also found in several plant families, including Holy Basil or Tulsi, Ginger, Cinnamon Turmeric, Pepper, and Nutmeg, to name a few.

It is not without reason that all of these play an important role in our food, regardless of cuisine or culture.

Even the much-maligned pizza comes with basil leaves.

Numerous studies have been conducted that show the potential of eugenol in combating cancer. Colon, breast, and even skin cancer. Skin cancer is uncommon but has a high death rate, relative to most cancers.

Eugenol is used in conjunction with other cancer drugs. When used, it reduces the toxicity of the drugs that you have to take when combating cancer.

Similarly, eugenol, when used in the case of breast cancer, reduces the proliferation of cancer cells.

Eugenol also protects the body from cardiovascular risks. Cardiovascular risks arise because of the buildup of plaque in your arteries, the hardening of your arteries, or both.

So what should you do? 

In low doses, these herbs have been shown to have almost no negative side effects. So your best bet is to add a tiny pinch to your food every day. I add a pinch of cinnamon to my coffee, for example. I chew on a clove or holy basil occasionally.

I recommend you do the same. Don't overdo it. There is such a thing as too much.

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