Cloves (Laung): Kerala's Aromatic Spice with Ancient Roots

The Treasured Bud from Kerala's Spice Gardens

In the lush, tropical climate of Kerala's spice gardens grows one of India's most aromatic treasures - cloves. Known as Laung in Hindi, these fragrant flower buds have been cherished for centuries in Ayurveda and Indian cooking. But what makes Kerala's cloves so special, and why have they remained a staple in Indian households for generations?

At Aurora Spices, we bring you cloves sourced directly from Kerala's fertile soils, where ideal growing conditions create buds rich in essential oils and unmatched fragrance.

Why Kerala Cloves Stand Apart

Kerala's tropical climate, with its balanced rainfall and humidity, provides the perfect environment for cloves to develop their signature warm, sweet aroma and medicinal properties. The region's cloves are known for:

• Higher Oil Content: Rich in essential oils, particularly eugenol

• Potent Aroma: Stronger and more complex fragrance

• Medicinal Quality: Enhanced therapeutic properties

• Traditional Processing: Sun-dried using time-tested methods

The Health Elixir in Every Bud

Cloves have been a cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years, and modern science confirms their remarkable health benefits:

1. Natural Dental Care
Cloves contain eugenol, a natural anesthetic and antiseptic that makes them perfect for dental care. They've been used for centuries to relieve toothaches and maintain oral hygiene.

2. Digestive Support
In Ayurveda, cloves are valued for their ability to kindle digestive fire (agni). They help relieve gas, bloating, and support healthy digestion.

3. Respiratory Health
The anti-inflammatory properties of cloves make them excellent for respiratory health. They're often used in traditional remedies for coughs, colds, and sinus congestion.

4. Antioxidant Powerhouse
Cloves rank among the highest antioxidant-containing spices, helping combat oxidative stress and support overall wellness.

5. Blood Sugar Regulation
Studies suggest compounds in cloves may help support healthy blood sugar levels already within normal range.

How to Identify Premium Quality Cloves

With the growing demand for authentic spices, knowing how to identify quality cloves is essential:

• Appearance: Look for whole, plump buds with a rich brown color and slightly oily texture

• Aroma: High-quality cloves release a strong, sweet-spicy fragrance when pressed

• Float Test: Good cloves should sink or stand vertically in water due to their high oil content

• Head and Stem: The bud should have a rounded head and smaller stem

"When you press a fresh clove between your fingers, it should release an aroma that fills the room immediately," says Richu Martin, Founder of Aurora Spices. "That intensity is what we preserve through our direct-from-farm sourcing."

Culinary Excellence: Beyond Traditional Uses

While essential for garam masala and biryanis, cloves can elevate both traditional and modern cooking:

Traditional Indian Cooking

• Essential in spice blends for biryanis and meat curries

• Key ingredient in masala chai and mulled beverages

• Perfect for pickling and preserving

Modern Culinary Applications

• Add depth to baked goods and desserts

• Enhance fruit compotes and poached fruits

• Infuse flavor in sauces and marinades

• Create aromatic rice and grain dishes

Bring Kerala's Aromatic Treasure to Your Kitchen

Understanding the journey of cloves from Kerala's spice gardens to your kitchen transforms this humble bud from a simple spice to a wellness powerhouse.

At Aurora Spices, we're committed to preserving this rich heritage. Our cloves are:

• 100% Pure and Natural with no additives

• FSSAI Certified for quality and safety

• Directly Sourced from Kerala farms

• Freshly Packed to preserve aroma and potency

Experience the authentic taste and therapeutic benefits of premium Kerala cloves. Whether you're making a traditional biryani, brewing spiced tea, or exploring natural wellness remedies, our cloves bring the true essence of Kerala's spice heritage to your home.