8 Powerful Health Benefits Of Cardamom, The ‘Queen of Spices’
Among the most expensive spices and renowned for its exquisite aroma is the ‘Queen Of Spices’- Cardamom. The intense, distinctive and slightly sweet flavor of the spice has been magical for food items, especially desserts, and beverages.
Seeds covered up in delicate green pods and shaped like a spindle, this spice has been prized for its healthy and healing qualities. So, let’s have a look at what health benefits this wonderful spice has packed up in a pod, for us:
1. May Help Cure Cough & Cold
Cardamom is full of antioxidants, and black cardamom helps cure cough and cold and other respiratory problems, according to some nutritionists. The spice has been said to provide antiseptic effects to calm sore throat, congestion and even dry cough.
2. Good For Your Heart & Liver
A healthy heart and liver are very important to be in the pink of health.
Studies have shown that the antioxidant elements present in cardamom may improve heart function and even possibly protect one against heart attacks.
The detoxifying properties of cardamom also removes toxins from the body and lowers the liver stress level(1). Some scientific studies show that Cardamom can decrease elevated liver enzymes, cholesterol levels, and even prevent liver enlargement. This reduces the risk of fatty liver diseases.
3. Helps With Digestive Problems such as Ulcers
Cardamom is often believed to help relieve stomach issues such as nausea, discomfort, and vomiting. It also stimulates the secretion of bile acid in the stomach for proper fat metabolism. Some studies indicate that it possesses the abilities to heal ulcers too(2).
4. May Have Antimicrobial Effects
Some studies have found that extracts of Cardamom may be effective against a variety of bacterial strains that cause fungal infections, food poisoning and stomach issues(3).
5. May Have Anti-Inflammatory Effects & Helps to Protect Against Chronic Diseases
Cardamom has compounds that may help fight inflammation which occurs when the body is exposed to foreign particles. Long-term inflammation can lead to chronic diseases, and regular intake of cardamom may help prevent this(4,5,6).
6. May Lower Blood Pressure
As cardamom has high levels of antioxidants, it may help to reduce the blood pressure for those with high blood pressure. This has been proven in one study conducted on 20 adults, who were newly diagnosed with high blood pressure. Their blood pressure levels dropped to the normal range after just 12 weeks of taking Cardamon regularly(7).
7. Good for Oral Health & Reduces Bad Breath
The sweet and floral aroma of cardamom is perfect for helping to reduce or sometimes even get rid of bad breath.
The spice is also able to kill bacteria present in the saliva and stimulates the salivary flow to prevent cavities in the teeth(8). Hence, Cardamom has also been effective for oral health ever since ancient times.
8. May Aid in Reducing Blood Sugar Levels
Cardamom, when consumed in powder form, may lower blood sugar according to some studies(9). However, other spices such as Cinnamon have been found to be even more effective in improving blood sugar control as compared to Cardamom.
Till now, if you haven’t had cardamom regularly, maybe it’s time to include it in your diet soon. With Hearty Spices Turmeric Latte Spice Mix, you can enjoy many of the health benefits of not just Cardamom, but also, other spices such as Cinnamon, Saffron, Turmeric and much more. All in a single drink!