Karayam (കറയാം) | Cloves (लौंग)
What is Karayam (കറയാം) – Karayam (കറയാം) is the Malayalam name for cloves or Syzygium aromaticum – Cloves or Karayam (കറയാം) are the aromatic flower buds of the clove tree, in the Myrtaceae family.
Cloves or Karayam (കറയാം) are native to the Maluku Islands in Indonesia and are commonly used as a spice. They are best known for their powerful aroma that can add intense warmth to any dish they are added to.
Cloves or Karayam (കറയാം) are a popular spice around the world and are used in a wide range of international cuisines. The easiest way to harness the health benefits of Karayam (കറയാം) is to add it to your daily food intake. An interesting fact about cloves is, while they are hot in taste, it is cooling in its trait.
Although cloves are available in both whole and ground form, culinarily Cloves or Karayam (കറയാം) are preferred whole, as the whole bud contains far more flavour and aroma prior to being ground.
Read more: Health Benefits of Karayam (കറയാം)
Cloves or Karayam (കറയാം) is a traditional spice that has been used for food preservation and possesses various pharmacological activities. They are considered to be analgesic, antioxidant, anticancer, antiseptic, anti-depressant, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial.