Cardamom Health Benefits, Nutrition and Spice Facts

Health Benefits of Eating Cardamom

• Remedy for Cold and Chest Congestion

  The main cardamom health advantage can be attributed to a phytochemical known as cineole. The compound is effective in eliminating chest congestion and fighting colds. Besides, the wonderful spice is also able to treat sore throats.
   

• Aid in Digestion

  Cardamom is useful in boosting digestion and improving appetite. The spice is also a great medicine for flatulence and has been used as a solution to relieve stomach cramps. Cardamom tea prepared with the seeds has the same health properties as the ground seeds.
   

• Excellent Antimicrobial

  Cardamom is capable of combating various bacteria, viruses and fungi. This powerful health effect helps your body to get rid of various ailments, diseases and infections.
   

• Good for Urinary System

  People who study Ayurveda know the therapeutic value of cardamom in curing urinary tract problems, namely gonorrhoea, cystitis and nephritis. When combined with amla and banana leaf, the spice is believed to heal bladder infections, scanty urination, and burning micturition.
   

• Enhance Blood Circulation

  The merits of cardamom are also linked to its contribution in promoting blood circulation. It is an important remedy for illnesses like asthma and bronchitis as it provides better blood circulation to your lungs.
   

• Function as an Anti-Inflammatory

  The health fact that cardamom is analgesic has made it useful to alleviate muscle and joint pain. In India, people apply cardamom oil to treat backaches as well as pharynx and mouth inflammation.
   

• Beneficial to Bones

  Cardamom contains a significant amount of manganese. Research has proven that foods rich in the essential mineral assist in improving mineral density in bones. Besides, the spice is also loaded with vitamin C. Laboratory tests have found the vitamin to be helping the body to absorb calcium, another nutrient that helps to build strong teeth and bones. 

Facts about Cardamom

Cardamom (scientific name Elettaria cardamomum) is the fruit of a plant that is closely related to ginger. The spice is native to India and is famously known as the Queen of Spices. Cardamom contains a strong flavour, which resembles the tastes of mint, lemon and smoke. The pods of cardamom are oblong in shape and green in color. There are around 20 seeds in each pod. They are where the flavour of cardamom comes from.

There are basically two main types of cardamom -- black cardamom and green cardamom. Cardamom pod can be used whole or ground for culinary purposes. The spice is very popular in Indian cuisine and Middle East cooking. It is made into garam masala along with other spices. In India, the spice is added to prepare assorted curries and basmati rice; whereas in Middle East, the spice is ground to be added into some desserts. 

Cardamom Nutrition Facts and Calories
 

Cardamom Recipe

Preparation:
Combine the water, cardamom seeds, and sugar in a tea pot. Bring the mixture to a boil. Add the coffee and continue to boil until foams appear. Remove from the heat, rap the pot to reduce the foams, then bring to a boil again. Repeat the rapping once more and re-boil. Put aside for 30 seconds. Spoon some foams into each serving cup, then pour the coffee. Serve warm. 

Cardamom Side Effects

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