- The many health benefits of eating cardamom pods.
- Cardamom pods are a native spice to the forests of India. This potent spice is a major part of Ayurvedic medicine and is also used in Indian cuisine and tea.
- It brings a strong and unique flavor to dishes.
- Let’s look at the health benefits of eating cardamom pods.
- Anti-inflammatory properties:
- Organic cardamom is a close relative to ginger and turmeric, and provides similar anti-inflammatory benefits. Chronic inflammation is a main cause for many chronic diseases and is a major risk factor for most cancers.
- Antioxidant rich:
- Organic cardamom pods are rich in antioxidants, which are key to overall health. Antioxidants protect the body from the effects of oxidative stress, which may help strengthen the immune system and ward off diseases. Dr. Andrew Weil explains, “Oxidative stress is the total burden placed on organisms by the constant production of free radicals in the normal course of metabolism plus whatever other pressures the environment brings to bear (natural and artificial radiation, toxins in air, food and water; and miscellaneous sources of oxidizing activity, such as tobacco smoke).” The effects of oxidative stress are often linked to chronic illnesses such as heart disease and many types of cancers.
- Better breath:
- In India, organic cardamom is often chewed after meals or whenever they need to combat bad breath. Cardamom pods destroy bad bacteria that causes bad breath.
- Cancer prevention:
- Cardamom has shown potential cancer preventive properties in many studies. These benefits are linked to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of organic cardamom.
- Detoxification:
- Cardamom pods provide potent detoxification properties. This is due to its diuretic properties. When a food is a diuretic, it means that it helps flush out toxins from the urinary tract, bladder, and kidneys through the urine.
- Gastrointestinal health:
- Cardamom is a good source of dietary fiber, with 1.6g per tablespoon. Dietary fiber is an essential nutrient to digestive health, as it helps keep bowel movements regular. In a study published by the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, cardamom was shown to inhibit gastric lesions and other gastrointestinal disorders.
- Lower blood pressure:
- High blood pressure is a serious condition that can lead to damage to the coronary arteries, stroke, kidney damage, vision loss, and more. Cardamom pods may lower blood pressure, according to a 2009 published in the Indian Journal of Biochemistry & Biophysics.
- Reduces muscle spasms:
- Muscle spasms are often caused by dehydration or lack of electrolytes. They can be very painful. Drinking water and juices with electrolytes is key to getting rid of spasms and cramps.
- A study published in the journal Pharmacological Research, cardamom oil was shown to reduce muscle spasms in animals. More studies need to be conducted to confirm these benefits in humans. Please consult your health practitioner if you are suffering from muscle cramps.
- AS ALWAYS: Check with your health practitioner before you change your diet. This organic food is not meant to replace any treatment or drugs you are taking.
- DON’T FORGET to sign up for our weekly newsletter to get our latest articles, updates, free recipes and giveaways.
- For the health benefits of saffron.
- For the health benefits of turmeric.
- REFERENCES:
- 1. “Blood Pressure Lowering, Fibrinolysis Enhancing and Antioxidant Activities of Cardamom (Elettaria Cardamomum).” National Center for Biotechnology Information. Indian Journal of Biochemistry & Biophysics, Dec. 2009. Web. 19 Aug. 2014.
- 2. “Pharmacological Studies of Cardamom Oil in Animals.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. Pharmacological Research, July-Aug. 1996. Web. 19 Aug. 2014.
- 3. “Anti-oxidant Effects of Cinnamon (Cinnamomum Verum) Bark and Greater Cardamom (Amomum Subulatum) Seeds in Rats Fed High Fat Diet.” NISCAIR Online Periodicals Repository. Indian Journal of Experimental Biology, Mar. 1999. Web. 19 Aug. 2014.
- 4. “Gastroprotective Effect of Cardamom, Elettaria Cardamomum Maton. Fruits in Rats.” Science Direct. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 16 Jan. 2006. Web. 19 Aug. 2014.
- 5. “Nutrition Facts and Analysis for Spices, Cardamom.” Self Nutrition Data. Self Nutrition Data, n.d. Web. 19 Aug. 2014.
- 6. “Why Blood Pressure Matters.” American Heart Association. American Heart Association, n.d. Web. 19 Aug. 2014.
- 7. “Muscle Spasms in the Back and Other Areas.” MedicineNet. MedicineNet, n.d. Web. 19 Aug. 2014.
- 8. “Stumped by Oxidative Stress?” WEIL. Dr. Andrew Weil, 17 Mar. 2009. Web. 19 Aug. 2014.
- 9. “Herbs and Spices in Cancer Prevention and Treatment.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine, n.d. Web. 19 Aug. 2014.
