9 Surprisingly Benefits Of Cardamom. Cardamom is a spice commonly used in cooking and baking. It has a strong, pungent aroma and a slightly sweet, spicy flavor. It is native to the Indian subcontinent and is widely used in South Asian, Middle Eastern, and Scandinavian cuisines.
Table of Contents
Cardamom pods can be used whole or ground, and are often used in spice blends, tea, coffee, curries, and sweet dishes.
9 Surprisingly Benefits Of Cardamom.
Nutritional Facts
A 100-gram serving of cardamom contains:
- Energy: 305 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 72.51 g
- Fiber: 32 g
- Fat: 5.72 g
- Protein: 11.16 g
- Vitamin C: 12 mg
- Calcium: 1261 mg
- Iron: 13.63 mg
RELATED: Saffron Health Benefits
Health Benefits
Cardamom has several potential health benefits, including:
Antioxidant Properties
Cardamom contains a variety of antioxidants, including catechins, epicatechins, and gallic acid. These antioxidants protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to the development of various diseases, including cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.
In laboratory studies, cardamom has been shown to possess strong antioxidant activity, which may help protect cells against oxidative damage. The antioxidant properties of cardamom may also help boost the immune system and support overall health.
Digestive Health
Cardamom has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to support digestive health. It has been shown to have carminative properties, meaning it may help to relieve bloating, gas, and constipation.
In some traditional systems of medicine, cardamom is used as a remedy for digestive problems such as nausea, indigestion, and acid reflux. It is also sometimes used to help freshen the breath and improve oral health.
While there is some evidence to support the use of cardamom for digestive health, more research is needed to fully understand its effects and determine the most effective dose. Additionally, while cardamom may be a natural remedy for digestive issues, it is always best to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating any new supplements or remedies into your diet.
Anti-cancer Properties
There is some preliminary evidence to suggest that cardamom may have the potential as a natural remedy for certain types of cancer. In laboratory studies, cardamom has been shown to exhibit anticancer activity and induce cell death in cancer cells.
However, it is important to note that this research is still in the early stages and more studies are needed to fully understand the effects of cardamom on cancer cells. Additionally, while a diet rich in antioxidants and other nutrients has been shown to have a protective effect against cancer, it is not yet known whether cardamom can effectively prevent or treat cancer in humans.
As with all supplements and natural remedies, it is always best to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating cardamom into your diet as a cancer treatment. Current cancer treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, have been shown to be effective and should be discussed with a doctor.
RELATED: All To Know About Garlic
Blood Pressure Regulation
Some preliminary evidence suggests that cardamom may have the potential for regulating blood pressure. In a small clinical study, the consumption of cardamom powder was associated with a reduction in blood pressure in people with hypertension. Additionally, animal studies have shown that cardamom may have a blood pressure-lowering effect.
However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of cardamom on blood pressure regulation in humans. Additionally, while cardamom may be a natural remedy for high blood pressure, it is not a substitute for established blood pressure-lowering medications, and it is always best to consult a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or treatment plan.
In general, a diet that is rich in whole foods, low in salt, and low in saturated fat can help maintain healthy blood pressure levels. Regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are also important for blood pressure regulation.
Anti-inflammatory Effects
Cardamom has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties in laboratory studies. Inflammation is a natural response of the body to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation has been linked to a variety of health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
In laboratory studies, cardamom has been shown to reduce the production of pro-inflammatory molecules and exert anti-inflammatory effects. These effects may be due to the presence of antioxidants and other anti-inflammatory compounds in cardamom.
While these results are promising, more research is needed to fully understand the anti-inflammatory effects of cardamom in humans. Additionally, while a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods is thought to be beneficial, it is always best to consult a healthcare professional before making any major changes to your diet.
Antibacterial Effects
Cardamom has been shown to have antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, making it a potential natural remedy for preventing the growth of harmful bacteria. In laboratory studies, cardamom has been shown to exhibit antimicrobial activity against a variety of bacteria, including E. coli and S. aureus.
However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of cardamom on bacterial growth in the human body and to determine the most effective dose. Additionally, while cardamom may be a natural remedy for bacterial infections, it is not a substitute for established antibiotics and should not be used in place of medical treatment.
Improve Respiratory Health
Cardamom has been used traditionally to support respiratory health and may help to relieve symptoms of conditions such as bronchitis and asthma. In traditional medicine, cardamom has been used as a remedy for coughs, colds, and other respiratory problems, and its essential oils have been used as an expectorant to help clear phlegm from the lungs.
Some preliminary evidence suggests that cardamom may have the potential as a natural remedy for respiratory health. For example, in a small study of people with bronchitis, inhalation of cardamom essential oil was associated with improvement in symptoms, including cough, chest pain, and shortness of breath.
However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of cardamom on respiratory health in humans. Additionally, while cardamom may be a natural remedy for respiratory problems, it is not a substitute for established medical treatments and should not be used in place of professional medical care.
Improve Heart Health
Some preliminary evidence suggests that cardamom may have the potential for improving heart health. Cardamom has been shown to have antioxidant properties, which may help to reduce oxidative stress and prevent damage to the heart and blood vessels. Additionally, cardamom has been shown to have cholesterol-lowering effects in laboratory studies, which may help to reduce the risk of heart disease.
RELATED: Coriander And Its Health Benefits, Uses, and Nutritional Facts
Improve Oral Health
Cardamom has been used to freshen the breath and improve oral health, and some preliminary evidence suggests that it may have potential as a natural remedy for gum disease and tooth decay. Cardamom has antimicrobial properties that may help to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth, and its essential oils have been used traditionally to freshen the breath and improve oral hygiene.
A study found that cardamom oil was effective in reducing the growth of oral bacteria, including Streptococcus mutants, which is a primary cause of tooth decay. Another study showed that cardamom extract was effective in preventing plaque formation and gum inflammation.
Uses
Cardamom is a versatile spice that is used in a variety of ways, including:
- Cooking: Cardamom is a popular ingredient in Indian, Middle Eastern, and Scandinavian cuisines. It is used in recipes for rice dishes, curries, spice blends, teas, and baked goods, such as bread, pastries, and cookies.
- Medicinal purposes: Cardamom has been used in traditional medicine for its digestive, respiratory, and other health benefits. It is often used as a remedy for indigestion, nausea, and other digestive problems, and its essential oils are used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and respiratory health.
- Cosmetics and personal care: Cardamom oil is used in a variety of cosmetic and personal care products, including soaps, perfumes, and lotions, due to its pleasing aroma and potential for skin benefits.
- Aromatherapy: The essential oils of cardamom are used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and respiratory health, and to freshen the breath. The oils are often used in diffusers, candles, and other products designed to release their aroma.
- Teas: Cardamom is a popular ingredient in teas, particularly in Chai tea, a traditional Indian beverage made with black tea, milk, and a blend of spices that often includes cardamom.
- Coffee: Cardamom is sometimes added to coffee to give it a unique and flavorful twist.
- Cocktails: Cardamom is sometimes used as a flavor ingredient in cocktails, lending its warm, sweet, and slightly spicy notes to drinks.
- Perfumes and Incense: Cardamom oil is sometimes used in perfumes and incense due to its sweet and warm aroma.
- Dental care: Cardamom seeds are sometimes chewed as a natural remedy for bad breath.
- Sweet and savory dishes: Cardamom is often used in sweet and savory dishes to add a warm, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor. It can be used in baking to flavor cakes, cookies, and pastries, and it is also used in savory dishes, such as stews, curries, and rice dishes.
- Pickling: Cardamom is sometimes used as a flavor ingredient in pickling recipes, lending its unique flavor profile to pickled vegetables and fruits.
- Flavored syrups: Cardamom is sometimes used as a flavor ingredient in syrups, such as simple syrup, which can be used to sweeten drinks, like cocktails, tea, and coffee.
- Spice blends: Cardamom is often used as a flavor ingredient in spice blends, such as garam masala, a traditional Indian spice blend used in cooking.
- Aiding digestion: Cardamom is sometimes used as a natural remedy to aid digestion and alleviate digestive discomforts, such as bloating, gas, and indigestion.
- Ayurvedic medicine: Cardamom is a popular ingredient in Ayurvedic medicine and is often used to support digestive, respiratory, and other health functions.
Side Effects Of Cardamom
Cardamom is generally considered safe when consumed in moderate amounts. However, some people may experience some side effects, such as:
- Allergic reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to cardamom, which can cause symptoms such as skin rash, itching, or difficulty breathing.
- Stomach problems: Cardamom can cause digestive issues, such as bloating, gas, and heartburn, especially when consumed in large amounts.
- Interactions with medications: Cardamom can interact with certain medications, including blood-thinning medications and diabetes medications.
- Heart rate increase: Cardamom has a stimulating effect and can increase heart rate, which may not be suitable for individuals with heart problems.
- Kidney damage: Some studies have suggested that high doses of cardamom can cause kidney damage in some individuals, especially those with pre-existing kidney conditions.
- Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Cardamom is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women, as its effects on fetal development and lactation have not been adequately studied.
- Blood pressure: Cardamom can also lower blood pressure, which can be a concern for individuals with low blood pressure.
It’s important to note that the side effects of cardamom may vary from person to person, and the severity of the side effects depends on the amount of cardamom consumed. To minimize the risk of side effects, it is recommended to consume cardamom in moderation and in accordance with recommendations from a healthcare provider.