Spice Spotlight: Cardamom!

Black and Green Cardamom


The aromatic "Queen of Spices" native to southern India, is ranked as the most expensive spice after vanilla and saffron. Prized for its inciting flavor, cardamon is a popular ingredient in both curries and spice mixes throughout Southern Asia and the Middle East. Its versatile flavor profile makes it an easy star in both sweet and savory dishes.
 This ancient spice has quite a history dating back at least 4,000 years.  Chewing the pods to keep the breath fresh was a practice of the ancient Egyptians whereas the ancient Greeks and Romans once used cardamom as the main ingredient in aromatic oils and perfumes. [1,2]

Benefits

Being delicious and aromatic is just the tip of the iceberg for cardamom.  We see that chewing the pods for clean breath was an early method of usage; achieved by the antimicrobial properties contained in it. This particular property is very useful as it does not inhibit the life and growth of healthy bacteria (as popular antibacterial medications may) rather it only deals with the infectious microbes. Research shows that the oils from cardamom were able to prevent the growth and spread of food poisoning-inducing microbes. [3]

Cardamom is also rich in many vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin C,  calcium,  copper, iron, magnesium, zinc and more. These along with the essential oils contained in cardamom gives the benefits of antioxidants. These antioxidants resist cellular aging and destroy free radicals in the body.[4]

Cardamom is great for the "flu season". The antiviral properties of this spice makes it a great protective measure against colds and flu. It removes mucus from the stomach and lungs thus, helping respiratory problems like the cough and bronchitis.
[5,6,]

Detoxification

   Organs such as the kidneys, bladder, and urinary tract can all be flushed of excess waste, toxins, and sodium due to the diuretic nature of cardamom. Blood circulation increases resulting in lower blood pressure and preventing clogged arteries. The digestive tract can be stimulated thus making it an excellent detox aid.

How to use

Teas are a great way to use cardamom and receive benefits (Cardamom goes great with ginger and star anise or oranges!). You can purchase pods whole, grounded, or powdered. Try adding to soups, coffee, or sprinkle some on top of sweet fruit.




Disclaimers

  • All product reviews are based on my experiences. Please be advised that everyone may not have the same experience. I am not affiliated with any product or marketing unless otherwise noted. Please check with manufacture disclaimers prior to use of any product.
  • All advice, information, and remedies should be taken into severe consideration. Please contact your health practitioner or holistic practitioner if you are struggling with a disease or currently taking any form of medication, pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • These statements-unless otherwise noted- have not been evaluated by the FDA 



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