The Benefits Of Cardamom According To Science
Cardamom benefits have been documented for hundreds of years. However, it was only recently that scientific research backed up these claims.
The use of cardamom as a spice is common, because its slightly sweet taste makes the taste of many dishes even better. However, many prefer this plant ( Elettaria cardamomum L ) for its medicinal properties.
According to an article published in the Journal Medicinal & Aromatic Plants, this ingredient comes from India. It has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. In addition, it is one of the most popular aromatic substances, both in cooking and in cosmetics. Do you want to know more about the benefits of cardamom? Then read on!
The main benefits of cardamom
Cardamom seeds and oil both have interesting medicinal uses. While they are not at the forefront of treating disease, they can help promote well-being. Of course, this only applies as long as they are included 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 health effects.
In addition, it is safe for most people to consume it and add it to some daily preparations. So, what are the benefits of cardamom?
Cardamom helps regulate blood pressure
People with high blood pressure may benefit from consuming cardamom. According to a study by the Indian Journal of Biochemistry and Biophysics , cardamom contributes to a reduction in high blood pressure in patients with primary hypertension. In addition, it increases fibrinolysis and improves the antioxidant status.
It is not entirely clear why this spice has this effect on our health. However, researchers suspect that it has to do with its mild diuretic effect. In other words, it stimulates the drainage of fluids that the body retains and which are a risk factor for hypertension.
Cardamom helps to protect you against chronic diseases
Given its anti-inflammatory properties, cardamom reduces the risk of non-communicable chronic diseases, including those that fall into the metabolic syndrome category. While the state of inflammation is necessary to some extent, it can lead to serious health problems over time.
However, as a study in the medical journal Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy (link) shows, cardamom contains polyphenolic compounds, flavonoids and terpenoids, which help fight inflammation.
More precisely, a dose of 50 to 100 mg per pound of weight can inhibit about four inflammatory compounds, according to rat studies.
The benefits of cardamom: it contributes to healthy digestion
One of the most notable benefits of cardamom has to do with digestive health. There is some evidence that combining it with other medicinal herbs can reduce common symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. In addition, experts also believe that it helps against stomach ulcers.
In an animal study published by the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine , cardamom extracts combined with other species helped reduce ulcer formation.
Furthermore, test-tube studies suggest that cardamom may also protect against Helicobacter pylori, a leading cause of stomach ulcers and digestive problems.
Cardamom helps with oral health
One of the traditional uses of cardamom has to do with oral health. In fact, it’s an ingredient that helps fight bad breath, and it’s a common ingredient in chewing gum for the same reasons.
A study published in Dental Research Journal points out that this spice is effective against pathogenic oral bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans .
At the same time, a 2009 study showed that cardamom extracts in test tubes were helpful in fighting five cavities-causing bacteria. Indeed, they were effective in inhibiting their growth. However, more research is needed to prove these effects in humans.
Other Cardamom Benefits
- Cardamom used in aromatherapy can help improve breathing and airflow to the lungs during exercise.
- The extract obtained from this spice appears to help lower elevated liver enzymes, triglycerides and cholesterol, as shown by several studies.
- Thanks to its concentration of antioxidants, cardamom also has positive effects when it comes to controlling anxious behavior.
Is it safe to consume cardamom?
To date, there is no data on the possible negative effects of consuming cardamom. Experts consider it safe in healthy adults. However, they do recommend consuming it in moderation.
They do warn against the medicinal use of cardamom when it comes to pregnant or breastfeeding women. The same is true for children, as no data is available on their use in these cases.
The best way to reap the benefits of this herb is to add it to food naturally. While supplements are available, they are not regulated by the Food and Drug Association (FDA). Therefore, you should use them with caution.
