Cardamom

Elettaria cardamomum - also known as Cardamom, is a member of the Zingiberaceae, or Ginger, family.  With a savory, slightly sweet, spicy taste, this herb has benefits for many of our body systems.  No wonder it's the third most expensive spice in the world!  Let's look at some of Cardamom's therapeutic properties.

Cardamom is best known for balancing the digestive system.  It can help reduce indigestion, gas, cramping, bloating, colic, urinary incontinence, kidney stones, nausea, vomiting, constipation and diarrhea.  It can also protect against H. pylori and UTIs, and even help treat UTIs.  

Lesser known benefits of Cardamom include improving circulation, balancing blood sugar, reducing blood pressure and cholesterol, protecting the heart and kidneys, supporting the immune system, freshening the breath, and lifting the spirits.  It can also stimulate the metabolism and increase the production of glutathione and other cancer-preventing enzymatic processes in the body.

This herb/spice is versatile in both its therapeutic properties and in its culinary uses.  It adds a great flavor to meat and fish dishes, vegetables, several beverages, and even to desserts.  I sometimes  spice up my morning coffee with Cardamom.

To get more in-depth information on Cardamom, check out my Herbal Datasheet section.