Originally very popular in Middle Eastern and Arabic foods, its popularity has now spread worldwide. Its distinct taste compliments both sweet and savoury dishes. It is customary to add to coffee, tea, broths, soups, curries, desserts and meat dishes. It is extremely popular in many Scandinavian dishes including sweet pastries and breads, mulled wine and glogg.
Nutrition
Cardamom is packed with disease-preventing phytonutrients and is rich in manganese, in addition to calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium and essential electrolytes and vital vitamins including A, C, niacin and riboflavin (Vitamin B2).
Benefits High Blood Pressure
Cardamom is rich in antioxidants with diuretic properties. Studies have shown that consuming cardamom daily can help to regulate blood pressure. In one such study, 20 adults with newly diagnosed high blood pressure were given 3g of cardamom daily for 12 weeks which significantly reduced their blood pressure back to within the normal range.
Corrects Digestive Ailments
Cardamom has a long history of use as a digestive aid and carminative. The essential oil menthone contained within cardamom is known for its ability to soothe acid reflex, ease a burning sensation in the stomach, protect against and heal gastric ulcers, reduce motion sickness, relieve nausea, vomiting and other discomfort.
Demonstrates Antibacterial Properties
Cardamom contains a chemical called eugenol which is responsible for the rich spicy smell and has strong antibacterial and antiviral properties. Studies have shown cardamom can inhibit the growth of common pathogens staphylococcus aureus, salmonella typhi, e-coli, streptococcus mutans, and candida albicans.
Promotes Oral Health
Cardamom is a natural breath freshener and has been used this way for centuries. The above-mentioned antibacterial properties enable it to kill the unhealthy bacteria on the tongue and palate. Studies have shown that cardamom can effectively fight five strains of bacteria which cause dental cavities in addition to the bacteria which causes gingivitis. In studies it reduced the number of bacteria in saliva samples by approximately 54%, as well as balancing the pH level of the mouth, thereby preventing serious cavities or gum disease
May Contain Cancer-Fighting Compounds
Studies have indicated that compounds contained in cardamom may help in the fight against cancer, helping to increase the activity of certain cancer-fighting enzymes, enhancing the ability of killer cells to attack tumours and cause apoptosis in the case of oral squamous cell carcinoma, lung cancer, myeloma and skin cancer as well as targeting cells which make some breast and colon cancers resistant to chemotherapy.
Has strong anti-oxidant effects
Cardamom is rich in antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties, to help rid the body of harmful free radicals, protecting against protein, DNA and lipid damage, and helping to protect the body against oxidative stress and certain chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer, Alzheimer’s disease and a weakened immune system.
Low levels of antioxidants have also been linked to anxiety and other mood disorders as antioxidants can help to prevent the build-up of cortisol in the body.
Protects the Liver
Cardamom can help to decrease elevated liver enzymes, triglyceride and cholesterol levels, as well as protect against liver enlargement and liver weight to reduce the risk of fatty liver disease. Additionally, a 2018 study demonstrated that it can reduce liver inflammation in overweight people with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and increase protective factors.
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