Organic Sri Lankan Cloves

Premium, ethically sourced
  • Organic certified Sri Lankan Cloves (Ceylon Cloves)
  • Hand picked – premium quality – Ideal for Gourmet cuisine and gifting
  • Premium packaging – Glass Vials or Burlap Pouches
  • Available as Sri Lanka Organic Cloves, Whole, Powder and Essential Oils
  • Sourced primarily from Micro-Small category farms (Organic)
  • Suitable for Ethnic Stores, Speciality Stores, Gourmet and Health-food Stores
  • Retail and Bulk Packaging available
  • International Shipping available
USDA Organic
EU
HACCP
JAS
ISO 22000
Natural
Regenerative Agriculture
Organic
Eco Friendly

Description

Organic Sri Lanka Cloves – Ceylon Cloves

Sri Lanka, known as the “Spice Island,” has been a hub for spice cultivation for centuries. Among these treasures, cloves hold a special place. Introduced to Sri Lanka by Arab traders in the 9th century, cloves have thrived in the island’s lush, tropical climate, developing a distinct flavor and aroma that sets them apart from cloves grown elsewhere.

Sri Lankan cloves are often referred to as “Ceylon Cloves,” a term coined from the island’s former name, Ceylon.

You can now source Sri Lankan Cloves from us with Organic Certification or have them sourced from Home Gardens and small scale farms through our Regenerative Agriculture programme.

 

Origins and why Sri Lankan Cloves are literally the best

Sri Lanka, historically known as Ceylon, has been a cradle of spice cultivation for centuries. It was Arab traders who first introduced cloves to this enchanting island in the 9th century. Since then, Sri Lanka’s fertile soil, combined with a tropical climate, has provided the perfect environment for cultivating these fragrant buds. Today, Sri Lankan cloves are celebrated worldwide for their exceptional quality and distinctive flavor.

 

The Ideal Climate for Organic Cloves

Sri Lanka’s diverse micro-climates, particularly in the central highlands, create an optimal setting for growing organic cloves.

Balance Rainfall – Ensures cloves receive the necessary moisture without the risk of waterlogging.

Consistent Temperatures – This stability is vital for the cloves’ growth, allowing them to flourish and develop their unique flavor profile.

Rich, Loamy Soil – The soil in Sri Lanka, particularly in the central regions, is rich in nutrients and well-draining. This combination is crucial for the healthy growth of cloves, resulting in robust and flavorful buds.

Altitude Advantage – The cooler temperatures at higher altitudes contribute to a slower growth process, allowing the buds to develop more complex and nuanced flavors.

 

Varieties and Grades of Sri Lankan Cloves 

Hand-Picked Cloves: This method allows for careful selection of mature and high-quality cloves. They tend to be larger in size, have a more uniform appearance, and possess a higher oil content. Favored in culinary applications where size, appearance, and flavor intensity matter.

Machine-Picked Cloves: Harvested using automated equipment. Although a few companies are experimenting, almost all Cloves from Sri Lanka are hand-picked.

Grades of Sri Lankan Cloves

Grade 1 : These are the highest quality cloves available. They are carefully selected for their large size, uniform colour, and high oil content. They are plump, uniformly dark brown, and have a rich aroma and flavor. Ideal for premium culinary applications and for use in medicinal and aromatic preparations.

Grade 2: Good quality but may have slight variations in size and color. May include cloves with minor imperfections or size discrepancies, but they still have a strong aroma and flavor. Suitable for a wide range of culinary uses.

Grade 3: More noticeable variations in size, color, and quality. May include smaller or less uniformly colored buds. They may have a slightly milder aroma and flavor. Often used in commercial spice blends, processed foods, or applications where appearance is less critical.

Different suppliers may use different terminology.

 

How Sri Lankan Cloves are used

Culinary:

  • Flavoring agent in dishes, baking, sauces, and beverages.
  • Used in pickling and preserving.

Medicinal:

  • Dental care for toothaches and gum pain.
  • Aids digestion and may alleviate gastrointestinal issues.
  • Respiratory remedies for coughs and colds.
  • Anti-inflammatory properties for pain relief.

Aromatherapy:

  • Clove essential oil for soothing and stress relief.

Traditional Medicine

  • Used in Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine

Herbal Remedies

  • Natural antiseptic for wounds.
  • Analgesic properties for muscle and joint pain.

Insect Repellent:

  • Acts as a natural insecticide.

Beverages:

  • Adds flavor to mulled drinks like wines and ciders.

Perfumery:

  • Used in the fragrance industry.

Soap Making and Cosmetics:

  • Adds fragrance and potential skin benefits to soaps and cosmetics.

Health Benefits

Antimicrobial Properties: The study investigates the potential medicinal benefits of cloves in preventing bacterial infections.

Reference: Jayaweera, D. M. A. (1982). Medicinal plants (indigenous and exotic) used in Ceylon. Part IV. The bactericidal action of some selected plants. Journal of the National Science Council of Sri Lanka, 10(3), 243-257.

Chemical Composition and Essential Oils: Examines specific chemical compounds found in Sri Lankan cloves, particularly the essential oils extracted from their leaves and buds. It also investigates the antimicrobial properties of these compounds.

Reference: Jayatilaka, A., Jeevatharan, M. (2017). Comparative analysis of chemical constituents in essential oils from leaves and buds of Syzygium aromaticum by GC-MS and its in-vitro antimicrobial activity. Pharmacognosy Journal, 9(4), 482-488.

Antioxidant Properties: Focuses on the ability of Sri Lankan cloves to protect cells from oxidative damage, which is important for overall health. The study may assess how cloves can act as antioxidants, particularly in the context of diabetes.

Reference: Perera, W. H., & Medagama, A. B. (2014). Antioxidant effects of clove (Syzygium aromaticum) on red blood cells in hyperglycemic rats. Pakistan Journal of Biological Sciences, 17(3), 358-363.

Antifungal Activity: Investigates the ability of Sri Lankan cloves to inhibit the growth of fungi. It explores the potential of cloves as a natural antifungal agent, which could have applications in medicine or food preservation.

Reference: Jayaweera, D. M. A. (1982). Antifungal activity of some selected higher plants used in indigenous system of medicine. Planta Medica, 44(3), 167-171.

Pharmacological Effects: This research examines the physiological effects of Sri Lankan cloves. It may assess how the consumption of cloves impacts processes like lipid peroxidation, which is relevant to various health conditions.

Reference: Sridhar, S., & Srinivasan, K. (2013). Inhibitory effect of dietary spices on iron-induced lipid peroxidation in rabbits. International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition, 64(3), 306-314.

 

Impact

Sri Lankan cloves have had a profoundly positive impact on local communities, fostering economic development and stability. The cultivation of cloves has provided a reliable source of income for many Sri Lankan farmers, empowering them to invest in education, healthcare, and infrastructure within their communities. This economic stability has reduced poverty rates and improved overall living conditions. Moreover, the clove industry has encouraged entrepreneurship and local businesses, creating a vibrant economic ecosystem that supports not only farmers but also various ancillary industries such as transportation, packaging, and retail. Our own foray into Regenerative Agriculture is enabling small home gardens to also be part of this positive experience.

In addition to bolstering local economies, the cultivation of cloves in Sri Lanka has yielded significant environmental benefits. Clove plantations promote sustainable agricultural practices, emphasizing organic farming methods and responsible land management. Farmers often employ techniques like intercropping and crop rotation, which help maintain soil fertility and reduce the need for harmful pesticides. The careful stewardship of land surrounding clove farms has led to improved biodiversity and soil conservation. By preserving natural ecosystems, the clove industry in Sri Lanka contributes to the long-term health of the environment.

On a larger scale, the success of the Sri Lankan cloves industry has played a pivotal role in the country’s economy. Cloves are a major export commodity, contributing significantly to foreign exchange earnings. This revenue has been reinvested into critical sectors like education, healthcare, and infrastructure, fostering overall national development. Additionally, the global demand for high-quality Sri Lankan cloves has elevated the country’s standing in the international market. This economic boost has further diversified Sri Lanka’s economy and reduced its dependence on a few key industries, ensuring a more robust and resilient economic foundation for the nation.

Source Areas

Cloves are primarily grown in specific geographic regions of Sri Lanka known for their conducive climate and soil conditions. The main areas where cloves are cultivated in Sri Lanka include:

Kegalle District: This district, also in the central province, is known for its diverse agricultural practices, including the cultivation of cloves. The combination of suitable climatic conditions and fertile soils makes Kegalle a notable region for clove production.

Kandy District: Situated in the central highlands, the Kandy District is another significant area for clove cultivation. The district’s varying elevations and mild temperatures create favorable conditions for growing high-quality cloves. Kandy city and its surrounding areas are known for their robust clove farming activities.

Matale District: Located in the central province of Sri Lanka, the Matale District is one of the most prominent regions for clove cultivation. The cool, hilly terrain and well-drained soils provide an ideal environment for growing cloves. The district’s towns of Matale and Dambulla are central hubs for clove production.

Cloves are also cultivated in the districts of Nuwara-Eliya, Kalutara, Galle and Ratnnapura

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