More Than a Spice: The Health Benefits of Cardamom

The cardamom plant is native to Southeast Asian countries and India. It grows to about 10 feet in height, bearing large leaves and fruits that look like small capsules. Each fruit has about six to eight brown seeds. The plant is primarily grown for these seeds. Cardamom is often used as a spice in cooking. It has a pungent and aromatic fragrance and provides a distinct flavor.

Cardamom is cultivated in many countries including India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Central America, Mexico and Guatemala. Cardamom seeds can be bought in seedpods, whole, split or in powder form. Many say that it is best to buy cardamom in whole pods to preserve the flavor. Like saffron, cardamom is an expensive and unadulterated spice.

Besides being a flavorful addition to dishes, cardamom can be used as a flavor base for liquors, coffee and tea. Cardamom is also known for its many medicinal and health benefits, some of which are listed below.

Benefits of Cardamom

Cardamom is known for its detoxifying properties. It helps flush out toxins and free radicals that cause accelerated aging and various diseases.
It can enhance appetite and provide relief from gastrointestinal illnesses like hyperacidity, flatulence or gas, stomach cramps, diarrhea and constipation.
Add cardamom to dishes to increase your energy levels. It can also combat fatigue and general weakness.
Cardamom is said to help cure halitosis and mouth sores.
Ayurvedic medicine suggests that cardamom can help treat various urinary tract infections, cleanse the kidneys and prevent the formation of stones.
Ancient Egyptians chewed cardamom to clean their teeth.
The high iron content of cardamom makes it helpful for anemic people. The iron in cardamom also benefits pregnant women by ensuring that the developing baby receives adequate blood supply.
Finally, cardamom contains many vitamins and minerals including niacin, Vitamin C, riboflavin, magnesium and potassium that help ensure optimum health.