10 Research Based Health Benefits of Cardamom: Uses and Side Effects

Cardamom a wonder spices

Cardamom is a wonder spice, known worldwide for its intense, stimulant, carminative and unique flavor. Since, ancient times, it has been used for various purposes such as the making of sweet and savory species, tooth cleaner and perfumes. Though, it’s a quite extensive spice, only second to saffron, yet used in all households because of its numerous health & medicinal benefits and surprising uses. It is also known as ‘festive spice’ because of its huge price bar.

10 surprising benefits of cardamom

1. Lowers blood sugar: Cardamom is full of antioxidants. In a recent study, it has been diagnosed that taking cardamom powder for about 3 months helps to lower blood pressure. It also shows diuretic effects, which directly or indirectly are related to the lowering of BP. As per a research conducted in 2017, the spice can improve inflammation and oxidative stress in hyperlipidemic and pre‐diabetic women.
2. Fights cancer: In a study with mice, it has been found that the spice powder stimulates certain enzymes, which in turn get ready to fight against cancer. A research conducted by Christine M. Kaefer and John A. Milner, the title “Herbs and Spices in Cancer Prevention and Treatment” wherein it has been shown that cardamom and cinnamon are effective in reducing the risk of colorectal cancer.
3. Aids weight loss: The use of cardamom helps to boost up metabolism and ensure breaking of fats, accordingly, good for shedding of extra weight from the body.
4. Induces sleep: The wonder spice is useful for those who have sleep issues such as insomnia, anxiety, tension and restlessness. How to works: Inhaling of cardamom oil aroma for a few seconds helps to treat sleep disorders.
5. Protects cardiac health: In a scientific study in animals, it has been confirmed that the use of cardamom is beneficial to protect the heart from inflammation. As per the study published in the ‘International Journal of Molecular Sciences’, when male albino rats were administered with 100-200 mg of cardamom extract, it has been found good improvement in cardiac health. Another research has also been conducted through the International Journal of Experimental Biology.
6. Gastrointestinal disorders: Cardamom contains a compound called methanolic extract, which is good for various abdominal problems like acidity, hyper-acidity,  flatulence, and stomach cramps.  A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology wherein it has been found that cardamom volatile oil is effective to combat gastrointestinal disorders.
7. Anti-bacterial: Cardamom, known for its infection-fighting properties. Cardamom oil has the capacity to fight against even the dangerous bacterial infections including food poisoning.
8. Anti-inflammatory Properties: A study published in Biomedicine and Pharmacotherapy Journal wherein it has been shown that the use of cardamom oil is effective against inflammation and spasm because of obesity, unhealthy diet and weight.
9. Dental care and prevention: A research published in the ‘Ethnobotanical Leaflets’ has shown that eating of cardamom helps to protect from dental cavities. Rinse of its oil helps to prevent dental plaque.
10. Prevents bad breath: The unique aroma of cardamoms makes it a natural breath freshener. The presence of Cineole helps to prevent microbial activities that promote oral hygiene and prevents bad breath too.

Cardamom uses and dosages

1. Cooking: The common uses of cardamom are in cooking and making of various cuisines and dishes.
2. Biscuits and cakes: Because of its flavor, it is used in biscuits and cakes.
3. Curries: Because of its special features and character, it is used in making curries and dishes like sweet and also with drinks.
4. Non-vegetables: It is an integral ingredient in making of meat, poultry and fishes.
5. Tea: To give a unique flavor in tea, it is widely used, especially in the winter season.
6. Pickles: It gives flavor to pickles and punches.
7. Sore throat: Gargling with warm cardamom water helps to ease with a sore throat.
8. Aphrodisiac: Since the ancient times, cardamom had been used for its aphrodisiac properties as well as also used against impotence.
9. Hiccups: Cardamom infusion is recommended in the case of hiccups.
10. Liver disease: The cardamom extract is beneficial in the case of fatty liver.

Nutritional facts of cardamom

The spice has adequate amount of various minerals such as iron, magnesium, selenium, zinc, manganese, etc. 100 gram of cardamom contains the following nutrients as per USDA data. Water (8.28 g), Energy (311 kcal), Protein (10.76g), Total lipid (6.7g), Ash (5.78g), Carbohydrate (68.47 g), Fiber (28g), Calcium (383 mg), Iron (13.97mg), Magnesium (229mg), phosphorous (178mg), Potassium (1119mg), Sodium (18mg), Zinc (7.47 mg), copper (0.38mg), Manganese (28mg), Vitamin C (21mg), Thiamin (0.2 mg), Riboflavin (0.18 mg), Niacin (1.1mg), Vitamin B-6 (0.23 mg), Fatty acids (0.68 g)

Cardamom side effects

Though, there are fewer side effects of cardamom. However, it may be avoided in the following conditions.

• During pregnancy taking of a large amount of cardamom should be avoided as it may lead to miscarriage in pregnancy.
• If you have gallstone problems, taking of cardamom in high quantity should be avoided.