Cloves and thyme in Moroccan herbalism

Here we bring together cloves and thyme: Moroccan customs, how to use them and precautions.

Cloves (القرنفل)

Cloves are part of ras el hanout, tagines and traditional perfumes.

How to use: A pinch in cooking, or a little as a light infusion.

Thyme (الزعتر)

Wild thyme from the Moroccan mountains flavours winter tea, food and oil.

How to use: One small spoon in a cup of hot (not boiling) water, 5–10 minutes, then strain. One or two cups a day.

Buying cloves with cash on delivery

• With us it's cash on delivery across Morocco: you pay only when you receive your order.
• Combine cloves with other products: 10% off 2, 15% off 3 or more, free delivery from €13.75.
• No returns, except damaged or wrong items reported within 48 hours with a photo and order number.
• Read the product page carefully: size, ingredients, origin and how to use.
• Compare sizes: larger for daily use, smaller for a first try.

Cloves, then and now

• Cloves is one of the products Moroccans have known for generations, with ways of using it passed down in families.
• Names vary by region, between Arabic, Amazigh and Darija, but the customs are similar.
• Today the same traditional products come with clear labels and home delivery.
• In the souks of Fes, Marrakech and Essaouira, the attar (herbalist-grocer) displays herbs, spices and oils in sacks and bottles.

General precautions

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women, children and anyone on medication: ask a doctor first.
• Patch-test oils and skin products on a small area; avoid the eyes.
• Store cool and dry, out of reach of children.
• Moderation first; herbs do not replace a varied diet.

General, traditional information only; not medical advice.