Benefits And Types Of Cardamom

The famous spice is most commonly used in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisines as a warming complement to beverages, savoury foods, and baked goods. Cardamom is high in antioxidants, essential volatile oils, electrolytes like sodium and potassium, minerals like iron and manganese, and vitamins like Vitamin C, riboflavin, and niacin, to name a few.

Cardamom is classified as tridoshic in Ayurveda, which means it balances the doshas (energies), vata (energy of air, space, and movement), pitta (energy of fire, digestion, and metabolism), and kapha (energy of water, earth, and lubrication).

Cardamom is a versatile spice that can help with anything from your breathing to your gastrointestinal tract to your beauty routine. Here are a few of the more unexpected advantages:

PROVIDES RESPIRATORY SUPPORT

A study published in the Bangladesh Journal of Pharmacology linked cardamom to respiratory function and bronchodilation. It was discovered to aid proper breathing mechanisms. Cardamom extract has also been shown to help regulate oxygen circulation and uptake when used in aromatherapy. For respiratory support, drink cardamom tea and inhale the aroma.

PROMOTES DIGESTIVE HEALTH

Cardamom was utilized to aid digestion in ancient Indian, Chinese, and Unani systems. The spice may have a carminative effect, which means it could help move gas out of the stomach and intestines. It also contains stomachic effects, which means it can help with hunger and digestion. The relaxing effect of the methanolic content on the entire gastrointestinal system is attributed to it. Cardamom powder can be added to food to help with digestion.

NURTURES MENTAL HEALTH

Cardamom's cognitive-supporting properties have been documented in numerous studies. According to a study published in the Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences, cardamom can help with learning, memory, mental clarity, and behaviour. It was also found to be beneficial in helping to reduce stress in a study published in Biomed Pharmacother. Cardamom has a balanced and clarifying influence on mood and behaviour in general. For an uplifting moment of serenity, sip on a soothing cup of chai.

MEDITATES INFLAMMATORY RESPONSE

Cardamom is high in antioxidants, which aid to maintain a healthy blood pressure while also mediating the inflammatory response. Cardamom extract and powder, according to studies published by the US National Library of Medicine, can both protect the body and support healthy inflammatory function, thanks to the polyphenol, flavonoid, and terpenoid antioxidant content. Cardamom can be used to offer anti-inflammatory assistance to beverages, cereals, savoury foods, and more.

SUPPORTS HAIR HEALTH

Cardamom has also been discovered to have certain beauty properties. Its nutrient richness, particularly iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus, can help maintain strong, bright, luscious hair. It not only helps to preserve hair health, but it also cleans and clears the scalp of buildup. Cardamom can be used as a hair mask or rinse, but it can also help your hair if you include it in your daily diet.

Types of cardamom:

Green Cardamom

Green cardamom, a green-colored seed pod of the elettaria cardamomum or authentic cardamom plant, is the first and most popular. It's the kind you'd get in the spice section of the supermarket, and it originated from Southern India.

Black Cardamom

The other is black cardamom, which comes from the Amomum subulatum plant and is a longer, brown-colored seed pod. It's less common, less fragrant, and has a somewhat different flavour character. It is native to the Himalayan slopes of India and Nepal, and is used in cooking and baking.