Cardamom the Queen of Spices

Health Benefits of Cardamom

Cardamom is a spice belonging to the (Zingiberaceae) ginger family native to India and Indonesia. Cardamom comes in a pod that has smaller seeds inside. There are two types of cardamom, green cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) and black cardamom (Amomum subulatum). Cardamom is also known as the Queen of spices due to is floral aroma and sweet flavor.

Cardamom has been traditionally used for culinary and medicinal purposes for thousands of years. Cardamom is commonly used to treat digestive issues in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda.

Cardamom has essential vitamins and minerals including, B vitamins, Vitamin C, calcium, potassium, iron, magnesium, selenium, zinc and manganese.

Cardamom has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Cardamom may improve oral health such as treating bad breath and preventing cavities. Test-tube studies have shown that cardamom extract prevented the growth of bacteria. Another study showed that cardamom extract was effective in reducing the number of bacteria in saliva by 54%. Another study showed that cardamom extract was effective in fighting five bacteria that can cause dental cavities.

Cardamom may also lower your blood pressure levels. In a study, 20 adults recently diagnosed with high blood pressure, consumed 3 grams of cardamom powder for 12 weeks showed that their blood pressure had significantly decreased to the normal range. It also showed that their antioxidant levels increased by 90%. Researchers also believe that blood pressure levels were decreased due to its diuretic effects.

Cardamom may help treat diabetes by lowering blood sugar levels but more research is needed on humans.

Cardamom may also promote weight loss, prevent anxiety and protect the liver.

Cardamom may also prevent ulcers, improve breathing and provide asthma relief.

As always, consult with your physician.

Sources:

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cardamom-benefits

https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-cardamom

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326532

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cardamom