Syzygium aromaticum: A Comprehensive Review of Its Phytochemical Composition and Pharmacological Properties

Syzygium aromaticum (clove tree) is an aromatic and medicinal plant belonging to the Myrtaceae family. It is native to Indonesia whose flower buds form a spice called cloves. Phytochemical analysis of essential oil showed the presence of eugenol (major compound), saponins, alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, tannins and steroids. The essential oil of Syzygium aromaticum possesses various biological activities such as antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anticancer, acaricidal, insecticidal, antioxidant, antidiabetic, cardiovascular and anti-inflammatory. In this review we have established a monograph on Syzygium aromaticum, that is the botanical description, the Taxonomic classification, its origin and distribution, its benefits and the chemical constituents of essential oil.