Health Benefits Of Cardamom

The benefits of cardamom for human health have been documented for hundreds of years. But only recently has scientific research confirmed these claims. The use of cardamom as a spice is common, because its slightly sweet aroma improves the taste of many dishes. However, many prefer this plant (Elettaria cardamomum L) due to its medicinal properties.

According to an article published in the Journal of Medicinal & Aromatic Plants, this ingredient comes from India. In fact, it has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Moreover, cardamom is one of the most popular aromatic agents both in the culinary arts and in cosmetics.

Want to know more about the benefits of cardamom? If so, read on!

The health benefits of cardamom

Cardamom seeds and oil have interesting medicinal applications. Although they are not at the forefront when it comes to treatments for disease, they can help improve health as long as they are consumed in the context of a healthy diet.

According to a chapter in the book  Nuts and Seeds in Health and Disease Prevention , this spice has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties that explain its positive effects on health. It is safe for most people to consume and include cardamom in a number of dishes consumed daily.

So what are the benefits of cardamom?

According to a study published in the medical journal Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, cardamom contains polyphenols, flavonoids and terpenoids, which help fight inflammation. A dose of 50 to 100 mg per kilogram of body weight can inhibit approximately four inflammatory compounds in studies in rats.

In an animal study published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine, cardamom extracts combined with other plant species helped reduce ulcer formation. Moreover, in vitro studies suggest that this spice is also useful against the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, a leading cause of ulcers and digestive problems.

At the same time, a study published in 2009 showed that, in vitro, cardamom extracts were useful in fighting five caries-causing bacteria. However, more research is needed to demonstrate these effects on humans.

Other benefits of cardamom

• Cardamom used in aromatherapy can help improve breathing and airflow to the lungs during exercise.
• The extract obtained from this spice seems to help reduce the elevated levels of liver enzymes, triglycerides and cholesterol, as indicated by several studies.
• Due to its concentration of antioxidants, cardamom has positive effects when it comes to controlling anxiety behaviors.

Is it safe to eat cardamom?

Experts warn about the medicinal use of cardamom when it comes to pregnant or breastfeeding women. The same is true for children, as no data are available on their use in these cases.

The best way to take advantage of the benefits of cardamom is to add it naturally to your food. Although there are dietary supplements, they are not regulated by the Food and Drug Association. Therefore, you should take them with caution.