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Cardamom is an underused spice with incredible potential. It’s one of those spices that doesn’t get as much attention as it should. That’s because people don’t know how many amazing things cardamom can do! With its sweet and spicy aroma, cardamom is a versatile addition to both sweet and savory dishes. It brings an aromatic punch to anything that it touches. Cardamom is a popular spice in Indian cooking, but you might be surprised to learn that it also has many other uses beyond being a flavoring agent for food. Cardamom has been used medicinally for years and continues to crack open new doors of possibility for this interesting spice...
CARDAMOM: WHAT IS IT?
Cardamom is a flowering plant in the ginger family. The pods are dried and turned into the seeds we know and love. The name cardamom comes from the Arabic word “qarad-mam” which translates to “sweet spice”. It is a very common ingredient in Asian, Middle Eastern, and Indian cuisine, but it can also be used in Western dishes. Cardamom is one of the most expensive spices in the world. It grows in tropical climates like India, Guatemala, and parts of Africa. When the pods are harvested, they are immediately dried. Then, the outer skin of the pod is removed to reveal the seeds inside, which are then ground into a powder or used whole.
How to Use Cardamom
Cardamom is an excellent spice to add to your coffee. It can also be used in desserts, curries, roasts, and more. You can also try infusing cardamom in water to make a refreshing drink. Cardamom can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. The best way to use cardamom is to crush the seeds and add it at the end of the cooking process. This will allow the flavor to be released fully when the food is served. Cardamom can also be added to infused oils, jams, and other food products. It makes
Cardamom Supports Digestive Issues
Digestive issues are a common occurrence, but they can be difficult to manage. You might experience pain, bloating, or other unpleasant symptoms, which can make it difficult to enjoy your favorite foods and drinks. Cardamom is a natural supplement that can help you get relief from digestive issues. Cardamom is a great digestive stimulant, so it's thought to reduce the amount of acid your stomach produces, making it easier for your body to process food. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to ease symptoms of acid reflux and GERD. Drinking cardamom tea may also reduce bloating and gas, making it a helpful remedy for gas and indigestion.
The primary benefit of cardamom is that it can support good digestion. The digestive system breaks down food, removes toxins, and sends the nutrients to the rest of the body for use. An inefficient digestive system can lead to many health issues, including digestive disorders and infections. Cardamom has been shown to reduce bloating, gas, and cramping. These benefits are due to its carcinogenic properties, which help to stimulate the digestive process. The volatile oils found in cardamom are responsible for these effects.
Cardamom Removes Toxins & Helps Support Weight Loss
Cardamom is also an excellent detoxifier of heavy metals and other toxins in the body. These toxins are not only harmful to the digestive system but to the entire body as well. Once these toxins are removed, you’ll start to feel lighter and more energetic. This is because toxins make it harder for the body to perform the necessary functions correctly. Cardamom is also an anti-inflammatory, which helps to reduce bloating and water retention in the body. This is great for people who are trying to lose weight.
Cardamom Gets rid of Bad Breath
Yes, you read that right. Cardamom can be used to combat bad breath! Studies have shown that cardamom oil helps to kill bacteria that causes bad breath. How does it work? Cardamom contains eugenol, an essential oil that has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. When you chew on cardamom seeds, the eugenol is released. You can also make a mouthwash by infusing cardamom seeds in water. Add some lemon juice to the infusion to increase the cleaning power.
Cardamom is incredible for Mood Management
Cardamom is a mood booster that can help reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. This mood-boosting effect is due to the abundance of B-Complex vitamins, iron, and magnesium found in cardamom. These minerals are essential for good mood and mental health. Vitamin B is responsible for creating serotonin, a chemical in the body that is responsible for feelings of joy. If you have low levels of serotonin, you are more likely to experience feelings of depression.
Cardamom Helps to Prevent Colds & Flus
The Vitamin C found in cardamom is an excellent immune booster. It helps the body to fight off harmful infections. When your body is healthy, you are less likely to catch a cold or fall ill. You can enhance the immune-boosting properties of cardamom by adding it to your daily tea. If you find yourself coming down with a cold, try drinking a cup of cardamom tea with a bit of honey. The honey will help to soothe your throat and help you overcome the cold faster. You can also make a cardamom tea using a cold-water infusion. The anti-microbial properties of cardamom make it an excellent seasoning for chicken and fish.
Cardamom Regulates Blood Pressure
Cardamom has been shown to have anti-hypertensive properties. Hypertension is when blood pressure is too high. A study found that people who consumed 3 grams of cardamom daily for 6 months experienced a significant reduction in blood pressure. This effect was more pronounced in people who were overweight or obese. The anti-hypertensive properties of cardamom are due to the high content of dietary fibers and minerals.
Cardamom Prevents Blood Clots
Cardamom is rich in flavonoids that help to prevent blood clots. Blood clots are a common cause of heart attacks, strokes, and other life-threatening conditions. The flavonoids in cardamom work as anti-coagulants in the blood by preventing the formation of clotting. This is especially helpful for those who are prescribed blood thinners.
Cardamom Acts like an Antioxidant
The antioxidants in cardamom fight against free radicals in the body. Free radicals are formed when the body breaks down food and other substances. They can damage cells and DNA, leading to chronic diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. The antioxidants in cardamom are called flavonoids. Flavonoids are also found in other antioxidant-rich foods, like blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries.
Cardamom is an Anti-Inflammatory
The anti-inflammatory properties of cardamom make it helpful for the management of inflammatory bowel disorders and rheumatoid arthritis. Cardamom is one of the ingredients in the Ayurvedic formula Triphala, which is used to treat indigestion and stomach disorders.
Cardamom gets rid of Hiccups
If you ever get the hiccups, you can try drinking a cup of cardamom tea. The anti-spasmodic properties of cardamom will help to calm down your digestive system and get rid of the hiccups.
Cardamom is a Great Aphrodisiac
Yes, cardamom can also be used as an aphrodisiac! The B-Complex vitamins, iron, and magnesium found in cardamom are essential in the formation of serotonin and help boost mood and libido. If you are looking for a spice to help spice up your sex life, try adding a pinch of cardamom to your coffee or tea. You can also use cardamom as a seasoning for food. It goes great with roasted meats and is an excellent addition to a curry. It is also a common ingredient in ayurvedic sexual oils. These oils are used to improve blood flow and increase sexual desire.
