Cardamom is a wonderful aromatic seed pod used in giving a unique sweet flavor to meals. However, that’s not all there is to this plant as it also has amazing healing qualities.
Now, let’s discuss 17 wonderful health benefits of cardamom that you must be aware of.
Promotes Heart Health
Like we stated earlier, cardamom contains antioxidants but it also has fiber that helps in lowering cholesterol levels. Its antioxidants are effective in promoting heart health and lowering blood pressure levels – which is beneficial for the heart.
Improves Oral Health
Cardamom contains antimicrobial properties that can improve oral health. As a matter of fact, cardamom can fight against oral pathogens such as Streptococci mutans and can help inhibit dental cavities. The spice is also functions well in the treatment of bad breath. It works better for bad breath when taken in a mixture of spices like anise seeds, fennel, and cardamom.
May Aid Cancer Prevention
Cardamom has shown to be a potential natural treatment for cancer. According to some animal studies conducted, the spice can be helpful in averting, delaying, and even back-track cancer formation. Some other studies on cardamom have also suggested that its powder can reduce the risk of developing tumors. It also reduces inflammation, which prevents the growth of cancer cells and eliminates them.
Fights Depression
According to several studies, cardamom can actually help in managing depression. You only need to powder a few cardamom seeds, boil in water along with your regular tea, and drink to get the desired results.
Improves Digestion
Using cardamom for cuisines is not only for its flavor but also for improving digestion. Due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, the spice facilitates metabolism.
Cardamom is also effective in stimulating bile secretion in the stomach, making digestion easier. It also curbs other gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea, heartburn, and acid reflux.
Treats Diabetes
Cardamom has very high manganese content – the mineral that potentially lowers the risk of diabetes. However, a lot more research is needed in this area.
Possesses Diuretic Properties
Cardamom contains diuretic properties that can prevent health issues such as epilepsy and hypertension. The spice’s diuretic properties also help in detoxification.
Improves Appetite
Cardamom can be used for treating a lack of appetite. In fact, cardamom oil helps to stimulate appetite. The spice can also aid in the treatment of histoplasmosis, a condition characterized by a lack of appetite.
Prevents Blood Clots
Cardamom contains a number of components that prevent blood clots. But of course, some more research is needed in this area.
Combats Asthma
Cardamom is effective for fighting asthma symptoms, including tightness in the chest, coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Cardamom eases breathing by improving blood circulation within the lungs. The spice also fights inflammation in the respiratory tract by soothing the mucous membranes. In fact, green cardamom is helpful for treating bronchitis, asthma and a host of other respiratory problems.
Improves Blood Circulation
Cardamom contains vitamin C, which is a potent antioxidant. The spice improves blood circulation in all the organs of the body. Additionally, the several layers of phytonutrients present in the spice are effective for enhancing blood circulation.
Lowers Blood Pressure Levels
Cardamom plays a vital role in lowering blood pressure. All you to do is incorporate cardamom into stews, soups, and even baked food to regulate blood pressure levels.
Improves Sexual Health
Cardamom acts as an aphrodisiac as it is rich in a compound called cineole. A very small amount of cardamom powder can release nerve stimulants and improve sexual responses.
Although further research is required, some studies suggest that cardamom may also be effective in treating impotence.
Treats Hiccups
Cardamom relaxes the muscles which, in turn, relieve hiccups. Simply add a teaspoon of cardamom powder to hot water for about 15 minutes. Strain and drink slowly.
Good for the Scalp
The antioxidant properties of black cardamom nourish the scalp and improve its health. Additionally, the spice also nourishes the hair follicles and improves hair strength. Simply wash the hair with cardamom water to get the desired results.
Treats a Sore Throat
Cardamom also has been found to treat a sore throat, reduce nausea, and avert vomiting. When taken along with other spices like black pepper and cinnamon, cardamom can reduce irritation in the throat.
Improves Skin Appearance
Cardamom is known to give fair skin as its essential oil helps in clearing out spots. The spice is used in the making of skin care products as it has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties to soothe the skin. In fact, cardamom helps in eliminating toxins that are harmful to your skin.
Side Effects and Precautions
While the consumption of cardamom in reasonable amounts is safe, seeing the spice as a medicine might have some negative effects. So pregnant women and nursing mothers should stay safe by consuming in really small quantities. For people with gallstones, avoid taking cardamom seed as it is known to trigger gallstone colic.
