Cardamom

Cardamom is the seed of a plant that is native to the Indian subcontinent. It now widely grows in the tropical and sub-tropical parts of the world and is a spice known for its flavour since ancient times. It is appreciated for its sweet flavour and it is among the premium spices, where today, it is used around the world to not only flavour food items, but also for its health benefits.¹

Modern studies show that many of the health benefits from Cardamom are due to its high content of essential oils. These volatile oils constitute 5% of the total seed’s weight. Modern science is now discovering its many health benefits.²

Health Benefits of Cardamom

Heart Health and Blood Pressure

Studies show that Cardamom may be useful for heart health in many ways, as it helps to reduce blood pressure, increases antioxidant status, and also lowers systolic and diastolic blood pressure. In one clinical study, three grams of cardamom powder taken for 12 weeks was found to significantly lower blood pressure. Cardamom has also been found to exert blood-thinning action and therefore reduce the risk of clot formation, and probably a heart attack. Cardamom also influences the lipid profile positively.³

Cancer Prevention

Although it is not entirely clear how Cardamom or its extract works, numerous studies in animal models confirm that it may help prevent cancer development. It seems to detoxify the body, increase protective enzymes, and boost antioxidant capacity.⁴

Reduces Inflammation

It is now becoming more apparent that low-grade chronic inflammation attributes to the rise of many ailments. This low-grade inflammation may occur due to many reasons including, but not limited to metabolic disorders, chronic health issues, stress, and hormonal changes. Low-grade inflammation eventually leads to the dysfunction of protective mechanisms, that in turn leads to more severe illnesses. Studies in animal models, confirm that Cardamom may help counter this low-grade systemic inflammation.⁵^,⁶

Digestive Health and Ulcer Management

The benefits to digestive health is one of the most well-researched uses of Cardamom. Cardamom enhances digestion and may promote gastric ulcer healing. This was proved in a study, where researchers studied the role that Cardamom undertook in preventing the damage to gastric mucosa when participants of the study used aspirin. NSAIDs (like aspirin, ibuprofen, and diclofenac) are often used for prolonged periods to treat painful inflammatory conditions like arthritis. These drugs are often irreplaceable. However, these medications cause gastric irritation and increase the risk of developing gastric ulcers. It means that supplementing with Cardamom, along with these medications, may not only help reduce inflammation but may also help to protect the gastric mucosa from the unwanted effects of these drugs.⁷

Overcome Bad Breath and Prevent Oral Infections

In the Middle East and India, Cardamom is often chewed or added to beverages, not only due to its sweet taste, but also due to its unique aroma. Chewing Cardamom pods helps keep your breath fresh. Due to its antimicrobial activity, it may also help to prevent oral infections.⁸

Modern researchers are also exploring other health benefits of Cardamom like its role in diabetes, anxiety, liver health, and weight loss.

Side Effects of Cardamom

In Indian cuisine, Cardamom is commonly added to curries and beverages. It has been used as a spice for thousands of years. Therefore, one may confidently say that when used in the recommended way, there is practically no risk of any side effects when ingesting Cardamom. However, it is not clear if high-dose supplements, based on Cardamom, would be equally safe.

Properties

Anti-Fungal¹^,²
Anti-Inflammatory⁵^,⁶
Anti-Parasitic⁷
Anti-Stress⁸
Antioxidant¹^,²
Anxiety¹^,²
Asthma¹^,²
Blood Pressure – Reduction³
Blood Tonic³
Cancer Prevention⁴
Colic⁷
Cough¹^,²
Diabetes / Blood Sugar²
Digestive Function²
Energiser²^,⁸
Expectorant²
Flatulence²
Heart Support / Health³
Indigestion²
Liver Health²
Oral Health⁸
Pain Relief⁵^,⁶
Spleen Support⁵^,⁶
Toxin Removal⁵^,⁶
Ulcer Support⁷
Urinary Tract Issues²
Weight Loss / Management²

References