Cardamom is one of the most valuable spices in the world, with an intense aromatic flavour that enhances both savoury and sweet dishes. It has earned the title “Queen of Spices” for its eloquence, culinary magic, and healing powers. Here you will know All about Cardamom and its health benefits
This magical spice has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Spiritually, cardamom energy has the ability to cut through the confusion of a busy mind, bringing more clarity and helping to lift heavy, depressed feelings. Cardamom encourages us to be more present in the ‘here-and-now,’ as well as opening the third eye to awaken inner realms of deeper insight.
So let’s talk about cardamom! We’ll look at what cardamom is, how to use it, its health benefits, and some delicious, healthy recipes in this article…
True cardamom seeds are found in green pods.
True cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) has a green pod, which I prefer. You can also purchase black podded cardamom (Amomum costatum and Amomum subulatum), a different species that I am unfamiliar with (other than they have a different, more smokey flavour). If you see white cardamom pods for sale, they are most likely green pods that have been bleached or faded over time.
Be aware that I recommend green for flavour and vibrancy. You can find cardamom powder in any store that sells herbs and spices, but I strongly advise against purchasing the ground variety and instead opting for the actual pods. There is a significant distinction between the two. The culinary magic of pre-ground cardamom is quickly lost as the flavorful aroma fades. I always peel the pods open and then either use a pestle and mortar to mash the seeds or repeatedly chop them with a heavy, sharp knife. I made this quick video to demonstrate how to crush the seeds. Once you know how, it goes quickly and easily.
All about Cardamom and its health benefits
Digestive Support
In Ayurvedic circles, cardamom is well known as a potent digestive aid, particularly helpful to lessen bloating and intestinal gas. It is related to ginger, which is used to support digestion, and it also helps with acid reflux, heartburn, and constipation. Cardamom can increase the secretion of digestive juices and increase appetite, which improves food digestion and absorption. It also helps to calm the stomach, particularly when related to stress, by relaxing the smooth muscles in the digestive tract.
Detoxification with Diuretics
Cardamom is an excellent detoxifier, which is aided greatly by its diuretic properties. While fighting infections, it also stimulates the kidneys to excrete uric acid, urea, toxins, excess water, and other waste products. This promotes better overall health.
Freshening Breath
This potent spice is an excellent substitute for minty-fresh breath. To freshen their breath, traditional cultures chew cardamom. It also has the added benefit of inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth.
Dental Health
Aside from freshening the breath, cardamom can help with mouth ulcers and infections of the mouth and throat. Cardamom has been shown in studies to have effective antimicrobial effects on oral bacteria while also supporting probiotic bacteria (which are necessary for balance and equilibrium within the body’s systems). It has been demonstrated to be effective against oral pathogenic bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans. Cineole, the primary active component of cardamom oil, is a potent antiseptic that has been shown to kill bacteria that cause bad breath and other infections.
Depression
In Ayurvedic medicine, cardamom is commonly used to treat depression. It has a miraculous ability to lift the spirit and calm the nerves.
Reduces Blood Pressure
Human studies clearly show that ground cardamom seeds, when taken on a regular basis, can significantly lower blood pressure in hypertensive individuals.
Aphrodisiac
Cardamom is a powerful aphrodisiac that has been used for centuries to support sexual health, erectile dysfunction, and impotence. It is mentioned in the Arabian Nights (a famous collection of Persian, Indian, and Arabian folktales) as an aphrodisiac.
Cancer-Resistant Properties
While the science behind cardamom’s cancer-fighting properties is still being unravelled, scientific studies have revealed promising evidence that this spice has anti-cancer properties. Cardamom has very powerful antioxidant properties, according to one study by Ray Sahelian, M.D. These studies also revealed that cardamom has complex abilities that can aid in the fight against cancer (due to its C9H9NO and 3,3′-diindolylmethane content).
Chest Infections and Coughs
Cardamom has traditionally been used to treat cold and flu symptoms. Bronchitis and coughs are also treated with it. Its stimulating expectorant action aids in the removal of phlegm from the nose, sinuses, and chest, making it an effective treatment for colds, coughs, asthma, and chest infections.
Antioxidant
Cardamom has an impressive antioxidant profile. It is well known for its ability to absorb free radicals.
Pathogen Elimination
Several chemical compounds, including cardamom volatile oils, have been shown to inhibit the growth of viruses, bacteria, and fungi in the human body.
Summarize
Cardamom is one of the most valuable spices in the world, with an intense aromatic flavour that enhances both savoury and sweet dishes. Spiritually, cardamom energy has the ability to cut through the confusion of a busy mind, bringing more clarity and lifting heavy, depressed feelings. In Ayurvedic circles, cardamom is particularly helpful to lessen bloating and intestinal gas. Cardamom has been shown to have effective antimicrobial effects on oral bacteria. It also stimulates the kidneys to excrete uric acid, urea, toxins, excess water, and other waste products.
Cardamom is a powerful aphrodisiac that has been used for centuries to support sexual health, erectile dysfunction, and impotence. It also has complex abilities that can aid in the fight against cancer (due to its C9H9NO and 3,3′-diindolylmethane content).
