Cloves (Laung): The Tiny Spice with Powerful Benefits

What Are Cloves (Laung)?

Cloves, known as laung in Hindi, are the dried flower buds of the clove tree (Syzygium aromaticum). Native to the Maluku Islands of Indonesia, they have been traded along ancient spice routes for thousands of years and have been a cornerstone of Indian cooking and Ayurvedic medicine for centuries.

Despite their small size, cloves are one of the most intensely flavoured spices in existence. A single clove can perfume an entire pot of biryani. Their warm, slightly sweet, and deeply aromatic character makes them indispensable in both savoury and sweet Indian cooking.

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Culinary Uses of Cloves

Cloves are used at almost every stage of Indian cooking — as a whole spice for tempering, as part of a garam masala blend, and even in desserts and teas.

In Savoury Dishes

Whole cloves are typically added to hot oil or ghee at the start of cooking, where they release their essential oils and infuse the entire dish with warmth. They are essential in biryani, pulao, and slow-cooked meat curries like rogan josh and nihari. Even a small quantity adds remarkable depth.

In Spice Blends

Cloves are a key component of garam masala, chai masala, and biryani masala. Their role is to add warmth and a subtle sweetness that balances the sharper notes of black pepper and cumin.

In Masala Chai

A couple of whole cloves added to your chai while it simmers transforms a simple cup of tea into something deeply warming and aromatic. Try the Perfect Masala Chai Recipe for a traditional preparation.

In Pickles and Marinades

Cloves are used in Indian pickles (achar) and marinades for their preservative properties and their ability to add complexity to tangy, spiced preparations.

In Desserts

A pinch of ground clove in gajar halwa, kheer, or shahi tukda adds a subtle warmth that elevates the sweetness of the dish without overpowering it.

Health Benefits of Cloves

Cloves have been used in Ayurvedic and traditional medicine for centuries, and modern research continues to validate many of these traditional uses.

Rich in Antioxidants

Cloves contain eugenol, one of the most potent natural antioxidants. Antioxidants help protect the body from oxidative stress and free radical damage, which are linked to chronic disease and ageing.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Eugenol also has well-documented anti-inflammatory properties. Regular consumption of cloves as part of a balanced diet may help reduce inflammation in the body.

Supports Digestion

Cloves stimulate the secretion of digestive enzymes, helping to reduce bloating, gas, and indigestion. This is why they are commonly included in post-meal mouth fresheners and digestive preparations in Indian tradition.

Oral Health

Clove oil has long been used as a natural remedy for toothache and gum discomfort due to its anaesthetic and antibacterial properties. Chewing a whole clove after meals is a traditional Indian practice for freshening breath and supporting oral hygiene.

Supports Immunity

Cloves are a good source of Vitamin C and have antimicrobial properties that may help the body fight infections. A simple home remedy: boil 2–3 cloves in water with ginger and honey for a soothing drink during cold and cough season.

Why Quality Matters with Whole Cloves

Not all cloves are equal. Lower-quality cloves are often old, dry, and stripped of their essential oils — the very compounds responsible for their flavour and health benefits. Premium cloves should be plump, dark brown, and intensely aromatic when you press them between your fingers.

Phoran's whole cloves are handpicked, hygienically packed, and free from artificial polishing or preservatives — so you get the full flavour and potency that cloves are known for.

Learn more: Why Fresh Ground Spices Taste Better

Recipes That Use Cloves

• Chicken Biryani — Restaurant-Style Hyderabadi
• Butter Chicken — Restaurant-Style Murgh Makhani
• Chole Masala — Authentic Amritsari Punjabi
• Perfect Masala Chai — Traditional Indian Tea
• 5 Dishes That Shine with Garam Masala

Explore: All Whole Spices | Premium Masala Blends