Properties of cloves for diabetes

Diabetes is a metabolic disease in which blood glucose levels increase due to decreased insulin production or the body's resistance to insulin. Controlling blood sugar levels is essential to prevent long-term complications of diabetes, such as heart, kidney, and nerve damage. Today, in addition to drug treatments, the use of herbal compounds such as cloves is considered as a complementary method to control diabetes. Cloves contain several bioactive compounds such as eugenol, flavonoids, and tannins that have the effect of lowering blood sugar levels and improving insulin action. These compounds affect diabetes control through various mechanisms such as reducing glucose absorption from the intestine, increasing glucose consumption in cells, inhibiting glucose production in the liver, and reducing oxidative stress. Hypoglycemic effects of cloves Cloves have significant hypoglycemic effects due to the presence of bioactive compounds such as eugenol and gallic acid, which are exerted in the body through several different mechanisms. One of these mechanisms is the decrease in the activity of digestive enzymes such as alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase, which slows down the digestion of carbohydrates and, as a result, reduces the absorption of glucose in the blood. In addition, the eugenol present in cloves directly affects muscle and liver cells and increases the absorption of glucose by these cells, which leads to a decrease in blood sugar levels. Also, the antioxidant compounds in cloves protect beta cells of the pancreas, which are responsible for insulin production, and increase the production and secretion of insulin in the body. Together, these features reduce blood sugar levels and improve diabetes control in people with this disease. Reduction of glucose production in the liver and its anti-diabetic effects The liver plays an important role in regulating blood sugar levels, and in diabetic conditions, it produces too much glucose, which leads to an increase in blood sugar. The compounds in cloves can inhibit the activity of enzymes responsible for glucose production in the liver and thus reduce glucose production. Research has shown that eugenol and other polyphenol compounds in cloves reduce the activity of gluconeogenesis enzymes such as glucose-6-phosphatase and phosphoenol pyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK). This decrease in enzyme activity means a decrease in glucose production in the liver and better control of blood sugar in diabetic patients. In addition, cloves can reduce the level of blood lipids, which helps improve glucose metabolism and better insulin function in the body. reducing inflammation caused by diabetes Chronic inflammation is one of the main features of type 2 diabetes, which is caused by increased blood glucose levels and oxidative stress. Inflammation can increase insulin resistance, reduce the function of pancreatic beta cells, and increase the risk of diabetic complications such as heart disease and kidney damage. Due to its strong anti-inflammatory compounds, cloves can help reduce inflammation in diabetic patients and, as a result, play an important role in controlling the disease and reducing its complications. One of the most important anti-inflammatory compounds in cloves is eugenol, which can reduce the level of inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) by inhibiting various inflammatory pathways. These cytokines are molecules that play a role in causing and intensifying inflammation, and their levels increase in diabetics. Inhibiting these cytokines can help reduce general inflammation in the body and improve insulin function. Research has shown that taking cloves can have anti-inflammatory effects similar to some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, but without the side effects of these drugs. In a study published in the journal "Phytotherapy Research", researchers found that daily consumption of 1 to 2 grams of clove powder in patients with type 2 diabetes for 8 weeks reduced the levels of CRP, TNF-α and IL-6, which indicated a reduction in systemic inflammation in these patients. These results show that cloves can be effective as a natural anti-inflammatory supplement in reducing the inflammatory effects of diabetes and improving the health status of patients. How to use cloves for diabetes Clove, as one of the valuable medicinal plants, has many methods of consumption that can be used to control blood sugar and reduce the complications of diabetes. Choosing the right way to consume cloves depends on the individual's condition, body tolerance and how to use it in the diet. Some of the most common ways to consume cloves include clove tea and tea, clove powder or extract, and clove supplements, each of which has its own characteristics and benefits. In the following, we examine these methods in detail. ### Clove tea and tea Clove tea is one of the easiest ways to use this plant to control diabetes, which, in addition to reducing blood sugar, also has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The active compounds of cloves, such as eugenol and flavonoids, help improve insulin sensitivity and prevent sudden increases in blood sugar. To prepare clove tea, just boil 4 to 5 cloves in a glass of boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes to release its compounds. Some people use cinnamon or ginger in its composition to increase the effects of this drink, because both substances have anti-diabetic properties. Consuming one to two cups of clove tea daily, especially after meals, can help regulate blood sugar levels and prevent diabetes complications such as inflammation and weak immunity. However, consuming too much clove tea may cause stomach irritation or hypoglycemia, so it should be used in moderation. ### Using clove powder or extract Clove powder and extract are more effective ways to absorb the active compounds of this plant, because these forms of clove have a higher concentration of antioxidants, tannins and flavonoids that help regulate blood sugar. Clove powder can be added to foods, teas, smoothies, yogurt or even honey to enhance its anti-diabetic effects. The recommended amount for daily consumption of clove powder is about half to one teaspoon (1 to 2 grams), which helps to reduce fasting blood sugar, increase insulin sensitivity, and reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Clove extract, usually available in liquid form, has a higher concentration of eugenol and can have stronger blood sugar-lowering effects. To consume the extract, usually a few drops of it are poured into water or tea and consumed once or twice a day. Since the compounds in cloves can interact with blood sugar-lowering drugs such as metformin and insulin, it is better to use it under the supervision of a doctor. ### Clove supplements For people who find it difficult to consume clove tea or powder, supplements containing clove extract in the form of capsules, tablets or clove oil are considered a suitable option to take advantage of the benefits of this plant in controlling diabetes. These supplements usually contain a specific dose of active ingredients such as eugenol, which work faster and more precisely than traditional forms of cloves. Research has shown that regular consumption of clove supplements can help reduce inflammation, improve pancreatic function, reduce insulin resistance, and stabilize blood glucose levels. The usual dosage of these supplements varies depending on their concentration, but it is often recommended to take one to two capsules a day with food for better absorption in the body. However, it is important to consult a doctor before starting to take clove supplements, especially for people who are taking anti-diabetic drugs, because there is a possibility of increasing the effect of the drugs and lowering blood sugar too much. The amount and proper usage of cloves for diabetic patients Taking cloves as a herbal supplement can have beneficial effects in lowering blood sugar, reducing inflammation and improving insulin sensitivity in diabetic patients, but to achieve the desired results, it must be consumed regularly and in the right dose. The consumption of cloves in the form of powder, extract or tea may be different for each person and depends on various factors such as general health status, severity of diabetes and the type of treatment used. ### Recommended dose of cloves for diabetic patients In general, the appropriate dose of cloves should be adjusted according to the needs of each person and in consultation with the doctor. Here are some common dosages for different ways of taking cloves: 1. **Clove tea and tea:** To consume clove tea, it is usually recommended to brew 4 to 5 whole cloves in a glass of boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes. Daily consumption of **one to two cups of clove tea** can help regulate blood sugar levels and improve digestion. 2. **Clove powder or extract:** Clove powder is usually consumed in a dose of 1 to 2 grams (half to a teaspoon) per day. You can add clove powder to foods, smoothies or teas. For clove extract, it is usually recommended to put **a few drops of the extract** in a glass of water or tea and **take it once or twice a day**. Note that the amount of extract may vary based on its concentration, so it is important to follow the instructions carefully. 3. **supplements containing cloves:** Clove supplements are available as **capsules or tablets** and their dosage is usually clearly stated on each label. Generally, **one or two capsules per day** are taken with food. Time to consume cloves The time of clove consumption can also have a great effect on its effectiveness. For best results, it is recommended to take clove **after meals** to help improve digestion and control blood sugar after meals. If you use clove supplements, it usually works best **morning and night**, as these are the best times to regulate blood sugar levels throughout the day. Precautions and warnings in excessive consumption of cloves Although cloves are a natural and beneficial herb, consuming too much of them may cause side effects that are dangerous for diabetics. For this reason, it is important to adjust the amount of clove consumption accurately and avoid its excessive consumption. Some of the possible problems of excessive consumption of cloves are: - **Excessive drop in blood sugar (hypoglycemia):** One of the side effects of consuming too much cloves can be a severe drop in blood sugar. Since cloves help to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar, consuming too much of it, especially along with anti-diabetic drugs such as metformin or insulin, can lead to **excessive hypoglycemia**, which is dangerous. Therefore, diabetic patients who use blood sugar-lowering drugs should avoid consuming large amounts of cloves and always consult their doctor about the dosage. - Stimulation of the stomach and digestive system: Cloves have warming and stimulating properties and excessive consumption can cause digestive problems such as heartburn, abdominal pain and digestive discomfort. To reduce these problems, it is recommended to consume cloves in moderation and reduce the amount of consumption in case of any digestive discomfort. - ** Interference with drugs and medical treatments: ** Cloves can interact with some medications, especially those that affect blood sugar levels or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Taking large amounts of cloves may increase the effects of anti-inflammatory drugs and increase the risk of bleeding. Therefore, it is important that diabetic patients consult their physician before using cloves in any form (powder, tea, extract, or supplement). - **Poisoning with eugenol in high doses:** Eugenol, the main active compound in cloves, can cause liver toxicity, kidney damage, and neurological disorders in high amounts. Excessive consumption of cloves or its extract, which has a high concentration of eugenol, may bring the risk of poisoning. To avoid this situation, you should avoid excessive consumption of cloves and adjust the dosage under the supervision of a doctor. - **Pregnancy and breastfeeding:** During pregnancy and breastfeeding, the use of cloves should be done with caution. Some studies have shown that consuming large amounts of cloves can stimulate uterine contractions and may be dangerous for the fetus or baby. Consequently, pregnant and lactating women should consult their physician before using cloves as an herbal supplement. Clove is known as a medicinal plant with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-diabetic properties that can have significant effects in controlling blood sugar, reducing inflammation, and preventing diabetes complications. Regular and balanced consumption of cloves can help reduce blood sugar, improve pancreatic function, reduce inflammation and strengthen the immune system. However, to achieve the best results, the consumption of cloves should be done under the supervision of a doctor and in appropriate amounts. Especially for those who use antidiabetic drugs, it is recommended to consult their doctor before starting to use cloves to avoid possible side effects. Finally, cloves are not recommended alone for diabetic patients and cannot replace diabetes medications because we still do not have enough studies to prescribe it. **To receive a visit (online or in person) with Dr. Yazdan Panah, fill out the form below**