Cardamom (Amomum family) popularly known as ‘Elaichi’ in Hindi is used as a spice produced from the seeds of Amomum species and in Bhutan, Amomum subulatum (called as bharlangey) is commonly available. These species are native to the areas of tropical and subtropical Asia. (1) In this article, let’s discuss the 9 health benefits of cardamom.
Cardamom is the world’s third most expensive spices and in Bhutan, its price ranges from Nu.400 to 600 per kg at present. From Bhutan, cardamoms are exported to Bangladesh and India. It is used as flavorings, as medicines, and as cooking spices in both drinks and foods.
Cardamom is low in saturated fats, cholesterol, sodium and it’s a good source of vitamin C, Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc, and Potassium. It’s also a good source of dietary fiber which will help in digestion and lose weight ultimately. (2)
Health Benefits of Cardamom
The different forms of cardamom are utilized and it has amazing health benefits. Different forms include seeds, oil, and extracts.
Let’s discuss the 9 health benefits of cardamom.
1. Lowers blood pressure
Cardamom has antioxidant and diuretic properties which can help in lowering blood pressure. (3) As per the studies conducted by S.K Verma and his colleagues at Indigenous Drug Research Center, Department of Medicine, RNT Medical College, it was evident that blood pressure was lowered to the normal range by using cardamom powder after 84 days.
2. Curing cough and cold
Black cardamoms are used in curing cough, cold, and other respiratory problems. Use pods of cardamom in warm water along with honey to have maximum effect for the natural treatment of cough and cold.
3. Protection from chronic diseases
Cardamom contains anti-inflammatory effects (4) and it is found that can fight inflammation.
As per the studies conducted by Md., Mizanur Rahman and his colleagues at the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, North South University, Dhaka, Bangladesh, the consumption of cardamom powder can decrease liver inflammation. It can also prevent dyslipidemia, oxidative stress, and hepatic damages. (5)
4. May help with digestive problems
Cardamom can be used with other medicinal spices to relieve nausea, vomiting, and discomfort. (6) A similar study has found that cardamom extract can reduce the size of gastric ulcers by 50 percent.
As per the studies conducted by A. Jamal and his colleagues on the gastroprotective effect of cardamom, its extract was more effective than anti-ulcer medicines according to 12.5mg/kg of the body weight. (7)
5. Cardamom benefits on skin and hair
The flow of sebum and clogged pores can be controlled by the use of cardamom and it’s useful for acne-prone skin. Due to the antioxidant properties of cardamom, chapped lip issues can be solved.
The essential oil produced from cardamom helps in removing blemishes and provides a fair complexion. Skincare products cardamom or essential oils are available in the market to promote fair skin in the beauty section.
7. Fights bad bacteria
Due to the antioxidant and bacteria fighting properties of cardamom, a regular consumption of cardamom can greatly improve your oral health by killing unhealthy bacteria from palate and tongues.
As per the studies conducted by Shailee Fotedar and Vikas Fotedar in the European Journal of General Dentistry, cardamom can protect us against Streptococci mutants (Oral pathogens) due to the presence of antimicrobial properties of cardamom.
8. Promotes Heart health
The antioxidant properties, dietary fibre and nutrient availability of cardamom help in lowering the cholesterol level thereby promoting heart health.
According to the report published by Harvard Medical School, Health expert includes cardamom as an ingredient in their dinners. (8)
9. Helps in depression
Add cardamom into your tea or boil it in water and drink. The aromatic property of cardamom helps those going through depression, mental stress or any other mental health issues.
Nutritional value of Cardamom
Cardamom is low in saturated fat, cholesterol, sodium, and is a good source of vitamin C, Magnesium, Potassium, and dietary fiber. The Health benefits of cardamom are linked to the nutritional value it possesses and below is its nutritional value based on 6g of dried cardamom. (9)
| Particulars | Content/%DV |
| Calories | 74.9 kJ / 1% |
| Protein | 0.6g / 1% |
| Dietary fiber | 1.6g / 6% |
| Vitamin C | 1.2mg / 2% |
| Calcium | 22mg / 2% |
| Magnesium | 13.2mg / 3% |
| Potassium | 64.3mg / 3% |
Related: 10 Health benefits of Avocados: Risk associated with it
DISCLAIMER:
This article ‘9 Health Benefits of Cardamom: Nutritional facts‘ is intended for general information only. It does not address individual circumstances or is not a substitute for any professional advice. You are hereby advised to take concrete decisions after the following advice from medical or nutritionist professionals.
Note: Sources referred are mentioned along with the articles.
