A plant record

Clove (jiwof)

Syzygium aromaticum

EnglishClove

Kreyòljiwof

FrançaisGirofle

BotanicalSyzygium aromaticum

Clove (jiwof) — Syzygium aromaticum, used in Haitian and Caribbean herbal tradition

Traditionally used

Digestion, toothache, pain relief, antimicrobial, nausea, respiratory

Prepared as

Clove tea: steep 3-4 whole cloves in hot water 10 minutes, drink for nausea and digestive complaints. Whole clove chewed for toothache and oral infections. Clove oil applied undiluted to tooth cavity for immediate pain relief. Cloves simmered in coconut oil 10 minutes, applied to painful joints. Clove steam inhalation for respiratory congestion. Use 2-3 cloves daily maximum.

In three languages

Kreyòl — Pou dijèsyon, mal dan, kalme doulè, kont mikwòb, kont ka kè vire, ak pwoblèm respiratwa

Français — Pour la digestion, maux de dents, soulagement de la douleur, propriétés antimicrobiennes, nausées, et troubles respiratoires

Safety

Safety notes for this plant are still being written. Until they are, treat it with a cautious hand.

Plants can look similar and be misidentified — always verify with a local herbalist or guide before use.

Kept alongside

LicoricePineapplePeacock flowerCalotropePapayaRingworm senna

More on Haitian plant medicine