Cardamom Health Benefits

Cardamom health benefits – Image credit: Aviatorjk, CC BY-SA 4.0

What is the Cardamom?

Cardamom is a spice that comes from the seeds of various plants in the genera Elettaria and Amomum, belonging to the ginger family, Zingiberaceae. It has a strong, aromatic flavor and is widely used in sweet and savory dishes. It is a member of the ginger family of plants and the world’s third-most precious spice plant, yielding no more than 150 to 200 kg per acre on average.

An Expensive Spice

The perception of spice value can vary depending on cultural, historical, and market factors. However, here are five spices that are generally considered precious:

Saffron: often regarded as the most expensive spice in the world. It is derived from the stigmas of the Crocus sativus flower and is known for its vibrant red color and unique flavor. Saffron is labor-intensive to harvest, as it requires a large number of flowers to yield a small amount of spice.
Vanilla: highly valued for its sweet and aromatic flavor. It is derived from the orchid species of the Vanilla genus. The process of cultivating vanilla is intricate, requiring hand-pollination and several months of curing and fermentation. The demand for natural vanilla far exceeds the supply, making it one of the priciest spices.
Cardamom: a spice that comes in two main varieties: green and black. It has a distinctive, warm, and slightly sweet flavor. The labor-intensive harvesting process, as well as the fact that the plant grows in specific regions such as India, Guatemala, and Sri Lanka, contribute to its high price.
Cinnamon: a spice derived from the bark of several tree species belonging to the Cinnamomum genus. It has a sweet and woody flavor and is used in both sweet and savory dishes. The best-quality cinnamon comes from Sri Lanka (Ceylon cinnamon) and is relatively expensive compared to other varieties.
Cloves: dried flower buds of the Syzygium aromaticum tree. They have a strong, sweet, and spicy flavor. Cloves are mostly produced in Indonesia, and their cultivation and harvesting require a specific set of conditions. Due to their intense aroma and limited availability, cloves are considered valuable.

It's important to note that the prices of spices can fluctuate based on factors such as availability, demand, and global market conditions.

Cardamon Pods

Cardamom pods each contain from 15 to 20 tiny aromatic seeds, which must be snipped from the plants with scissors, so it’s a labor-intensive and tedious task. Cardamom seed is available in the pod or decorated with the outer pod removed. It can be either “whole” or ‘ground.” Use cardamom sparingly in pastry, apple pies, and spicy sauces.

Cardamom Origins

The two primary types of cardamom are Green cardamom, Elettaria cardamomum, and Black cardamom, Amomum subulatum. Green cardamom, also known as true cardamom, is the more common and widely used variety. It is native to India and is extensively cultivated in countries such as Guatemala, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Guatemala. On the other hand, black cardamom has a smoky flavor and is larger in size compared to green cardamom. It is mainly grown in the eastern Himalayan region, including countries like Nepal, Bhutan, and parts of India.

Cardamom has a long history of cultivation and use, particularly in South Asia, where it has been used for centuries in traditional Ayurvedic medicine and culinary practices. However, it has also gained popularity in other parts of the world and is now used in various cuisines worldwide.

Spice or an Herb?

Cardamom is classified as a spice rather than an herb. Spices are typically derived from various parts of plants, such as seeds, bark, roots, or fruits, and are used to add flavor, aroma, and color to food. Cardamom spice is obtained from the seeds of plants in the Elettaria and Amomum genera, specifically from the seeds within their pods.

Herbs, on the other hand, are typically derived from the leaves of plants and are used primarily for culinary and medicinal purposes. While some herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, can be used fresh or dried, cardamom is specifically harvested for its seeds, which are then dried and used as a spice. Therefore, due to its seed-derived nature and its common use as a flavoring agent, cardamom is classified as a spice.

5 Cardamom Health Benefits

There are several potential cardamom health benefits. Here are five of them:

Cardamom Health Benefits #1 – Digestive Health: Cardamom is known to have carminative properties, which means it can help relieve gas and indigestion. It may also aid in soothing gastrointestinal issues like stomach cramps and acidity. Chewing on cardamom pods or drinking cardamom tea after a meal is a common practice in many cultures to promote digestion.
Cardamom Health Benefits #2 – Anti-inflammatory Properties: Cardamom contains compounds with potential anti-inflammatory effects. These compounds, such as cineole and terpinene, have been studied for their ability to reduce inflammation and may have potential benefits in conditions like arthritis.
Cardamom Health Benefits #3 – Oral Health: Chewing on cardamom pods or using cardamom-infused mouth rinses can help freshen your breath and promote oral health. Cardamom has antimicrobial properties that may help combat bacteria in the mouth and prevent cavities.
Cardamom Health Benefits #4 – Antioxidant Activity: Cardamom is rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body against damage caused by harmful free radicals. Antioxidants have been associated with various health benefits, including reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and certain cancers.
Cardamom Health Benefits #5 – Respiratory Health: The aroma of cardamom can have a soothing effect on the respiratory system. It is often used in traditional remedies for respiratory conditions like coughs, bronchitis, and asthma. In addition, it may help to alleviate congestion and improve breathing.

It’s worth noting that while cardamom shows promise in these areas, further research is needed to fully understand its potential health benefits and the specific mechanisms involved. As with any dietary component, it’s always a good idea to consume cardamom in moderation as part of a balanced diet. If you have any specific health concerns, it’s recommended to consult with a healthcare professional.

More About Cardamom’s Benefit for Oral Health

There are several potential cardamom health benefits when it comes to oral health. Here are some more details:

Breath Freshener: Cardamom has a pleasant aroma and flavor, which makes it an effective natural breath freshener. Chewing on cardamom pods or simply sucking on the seeds can help mask bad breath and leave a refreshing scent in the mouth.
Antimicrobial Properties: Cardamom contains antimicrobial compounds that can help combat bacteria in the mouth. Studies have shown that cardamom extracts have inhibitory effects on various bacteria that are associated with oral infections and dental caries (cavities). The antimicrobial properties of cardamom may help reduce the risk of oral infections and maintain oral hygiene.
Oral Hygiene: Cardamom has been traditionally used in some cultures as a natural way to promote oral hygiene. It is believed to help cleanse the mouth, eliminate food particles, and reduce plaque formation. In addition, chewing on cardamom pods can stimulate saliva production, which aids in neutralizing acids and maintaining a healthy pH balance in the mouth.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: Cardamom possesses anti-inflammatory properties that may benefit oral health. Inflammation in the gums, known as gingivitis, is a common oral health issue. Cardamom's anti-inflammatory compounds may help reduce gum inflammation and support gum health.

It’s important to note that while cardamom can contribute to oral health, it should not replace regular oral hygiene practices such as brushing your teeth, flossing, and visiting your dentist. Instead, cardamom can be a complementary addition to your oral care routine. If you have specific oral health concerns, it’s advisable to consult a dental professional for personalized advice.

Cardamom Health Benefits: Phytochemicals

Cardamom contains several beneficial phytochemicals, which are natural compounds found in plants that have potential health benefits. Some of the key phytochemicals giving cardamom health benefits include:

Terpenes: Cardamom contains various terpenes, such as limonene, myrcene, and cineole. These compounds contribute to the aromatic and flavorful properties of cardamom. Terpenes also possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and may have potential therapeutic effects on various health conditions.
Flavonoids: Flavonoids are a group of phytochemicals with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Cardamom contains flavonoids like quercetin, which has been studied for its potential benefits in reducing inflammation, protecting against cardiovascular diseases, and exhibiting anticancer properties.
Phenolic Compounds: Cardamom contains phenolic compounds, including caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, and ferulic acid. These compounds have antioxidant activity and may help protect cells against oxidative damage caused by free radicals.
Essential Oils: Cardamom contains essential oils that contribute to its distinctive aroma and flavor. The essential oils in cardamom, such as alpha-terpinyl acetate, linalool, and eucalyptol (also known as cineole), have been studied for their potential antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and digestive benefits.

These phytochemicals in cardamom contribute to its potential health benefits, including its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. However, it's important to note that the exact composition and concentration of these phytochemicals can vary depending on the variety and quality of cardamom and other factors.

More Research is Needed

Further research is needed to fully understand the specific effects and mechanisms of these phytochemicals in relation to cardamom health benefits. As with any natural ingredient, it's always advisable to consume cardamom in moderation as part of a varied and balanced diet to enjoy its potential benefits.

Cardamom Health Benefits: Vitamins

While cardamom is not considered a significant source of essential vitamins, it does contain small amounts of certain nutrients that can contribute to overall health. Here are some of the nutrients found in cardamom:

Minerals: Cardamom contains minerals such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium. These minerals are essential for maintaining healthy bones, supporting nerve function, and regulating blood pressure.
Fiber: Cardamom is a good source of dietary fiber. Fiber plays a crucial role in maintaining digestive health, preventing constipation, and regulating blood sugar levels.
Antioxidants: Cardamom contains various antioxidants, including flavonoids and phenolic compounds. These antioxidants help protect the body's cells from damage caused by harmful free radicals, which may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Essential oils: Cardamom contains essential oils, such as cineole, terpinene, and limonene. These oils have antimicrobial properties and may positively affect respiratory health.

While it contains small amounts of certain vitamins, they are not present in high enough quantities to significantly contribute to your daily recommended intake. However, here are some of the vitamins found in cardamom:

Vitamin C: Cardamom contains a small amount of vitamin C, which is an important antioxidant that supports immune function, collagen synthesis, and the absorption of iron.
Vitamin B6: Cardamom contains a small amount of vitamin B6, which is involved in several essential bodily functions, including metabolism, brain development, and the production of neurotransmitters.
Niacin (Vitamin B3): Cardamom contains trace amounts of niacin, which is essential for energy production, DNA repair, and the functioning of the nervous system.

While cardamom contributes subtly to your vitamin intake, it should not be relied upon as a primary source of these nutrients. It's essential to consume a varied diet that includes a wide range of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other nutrient-rich foods to meet your daily vitamin requirements.

Cardamom Health Benefits: Minerals

Cardamom contains a variety of minerals that can contribute to overall health. Here are some of the minerals found in cardamom:

Calcium: Cardamom contains small amounts of calcium, which is important for strong bones and teeth, proper muscle function, nerve signaling, and blood clotting.
Iron: Cardamom contains trace amounts of iron, which is necessary for the production of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. Iron also supports immune function and energy production.
Magnesium: Cardamom is a source of magnesium, a mineral involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body. Magnesium is crucial for maintaining normal nerve and muscle function, supporting a healthy immune system, regulating blood sugar levels, and promoting bone health.
Phosphorus: Cardamom contains phosphorus, a mineral that is essential for forming healthy bones and teeth, filtering waste in the kidneys, and helping the body produce energy.
Potassium: Cardamom is a good source of potassium, an essential mineral that plays a vital role in maintaining proper heart and muscle function, regulating blood pressure, and balancing fluid levels in the body.

While cardamom may not provide significant amounts of these minerals, its inclusion in your diet and a variety of other nutrient-rich foods can contribute to meeting your daily mineral requirements. You now know practically everything about cardamom health benefits.

Cardamom Culinary Uses

Cardamom is a versatile spice that is used in various culinary traditions around the world. Here are some of the most popular culinary uses of cardamom:

Sweet Treats: Cardamom is commonly used in sweet dishes and desserts. It adds a unique, aromatic flavor to dishes like rice pudding, custards, ice creams, cakes, cookies, and pastries. In many Middle Eastern and Indian sweets, cardamom is a key ingredient.
Beverages: Cardamom is often used to enhance the flavor of beverages. It is a common ingredient in chai tea, where it adds a warm, spicy note. Cardamom is also used in coffee preparations, such as Turkish or Arabic coffee, and it is used to flavor hot milk or hot chocolate in some regions.

Spice Blends

Image credit: Merve Sehirli Nasir on Unsplash

Cardamom is a component of several spice blends. In Indian cuisine, it is often used in garam masala, a popular spice blend used in curries and other dishes. It is also an essential ingredient in the Arabic spice blend called Baharat. Cardamom's flavor complements other spices, adding depth and complexity to the combinations.

Savory Dishes: While cardamom is more commonly associated with sweet dishes, it is also used in specific savory preparations. In Scandinavian cuisines, cardamom is added to dishes like meatballs, stews, and pickles. It is also used in some rice and pilaf recipes, adding a delicate flavor.
Baking: Cardamom is often used in baking bread, especially in Scandinavian and Finnish cuisines. It can be added to doughs and batters to impart a delightful aroma and taste to bread, buns, and rolls.
Infusions: Cardamom pods or seeds can be used to infuse flavors into liquids. They are commonly added to milk or cream when making rice pudding or custards. Cardamom infusions can also be used to flavor syrups, marinades, or poaching liquids for fruits.

Herbs, Spices, and Minerals

As with everything we eat, herbs and spices work optimally in the presence of the full complement of 75+ pure hydrophilic plant-derived minerals. See this page for a complete rundown of why we need ALL the minerals mother nature ought to give us with our foods. Unfortunately, if the herbs and spices are grown on mineral-deficient soils (most commercial farm soils are), they will also lack vital minerals.

Volcanic And Glacial Soils

Those fortunate to have fresh glacial or volcanic soils added to the soil in which their herbs grow can be certain that their herbs will contain many minerals now missing in most soils around the world.

Can We Add Minerals To Grow Bags?

Yes. Our Powdered Minerals contain 75+ minerals from 70-million-year-old Senonian compost extracted from the TRC mines in Utah. Simply add a spoonful of the powder to a watering can before watering the Grow Bag. You only need to do this once because plants take the minerals in trace amounts to be incorporated into their tissues. Think about tomato plants in greenhouses: mineral-rich, juicy tomatoes every time! But growing your own herbs is just as good.

Experiment!

It’ll be worthwhile experimenting: compare the growth and yields of herbs grown in soils with added powdered minerals with those in grow bags with ordinary compost. First, of course, you must adopt the scientific approach and use controls with various mineral dosages. Then repeat the experiment with other herbs. But one thing is for sure: eating mineral-rich herbs will mean you also get to benefit from the minerals.

Get Powdered Minerals Here

Links: PubMed 20361714; PubMed 22404574; NIH PMV5557534; USDA 170919; PubMed 18037596; PubMed 22182368; PubMed 25183139; NIH PMC3353705; Research Gate 50874100; allspice; angelica; anise; basil

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