Cardamom
Cardamom is widely referred to as the “Queen of Spices”. Earlier in history, Cardamom was mainly grown in Southern India. It was used for medication, flavoring, and even as an offering. By the year 1524, cardamom’s trade in the international spice market had immensely grown. Cardamom is now a major spice product in Sri Lanka.
The Cardamom plant belongs to the family Zingiberaceae and its species name is Elettaria cardamom. It is a perennial plant with thick rhizomes that are irregular in shape.
Varieties
There are three main varieties of Cardamom in Sri Lanka. They are categorized according to the configuration of their inflorescence. They include Malabar, Mysore, and Vazhukka. Their inflorescence is prostate, vertical and inclined respectively.
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Health Benefits of Cardamom
- A Cancer Preventing Food
The phenols and the flavonoids in cardamom have high antioxidant qualities, which prevents free radicals causing cell and DNA damage, a main cause of cancer in humans. Compounds in cardamom help to reduce the risk of cancer in two ways; - By boosting natural immunity against the growth of cancer cells
- Preventing further growth of cancer cells
- Helps To Maintain A Healthy Blood Pressure Level
Research of controlled correlation has found that cardamom has the ability to reduce blood pressure through antioxidant activities and diuretic effects. (3) Consumption of cardamom tea is believed to reduce high blood pressure and can help patients with high blood pressure to control their situation.
- An Anti-Inflammatory Food
The Polyphenols and flavonoids in cardamom act as anti-inflammatory agents in reducing inflammation and a series of chronic diseases. Cardamom has been found to have a strong Impact on disease in the digestive system, hypertension, coronary artery diseases and cardigan infections.
- A Heart-Healthy Food
Green cardamom helps to keep the heart healthy and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases by reducing the risk factors of heart diseases;- Reducing blood clotting in the human body
- Reduce Atherosclerosis or build-up of fat and cholesterol in arteries
- Reduce Hypercholesterolaemia or elevated amounts of cholesterol in the blood
- Reduces The Digestive Tract Infections
Cardamom reduces the risk of indigestion and speeds up digestion by reducing inflammation in the stomach lining. The nutrients found in cardamom soothes the mucous membranes, improving the function of the system while relieving the symptoms of acidity in the upper stomach.
Flavonoids in cardamom also provide effective protection against bacteria that causes stomach ulcers.
Moreover, essential oils and extracts of cardamom have antimicrobial properties and can be more effective than regular medication against E. coli and Staphylococcus, bacteria that can cause food poisoning
- Improves Oral Health
The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of cardamom help to improve oral health by controlling the bacteria that cause gum disease. It’s essence also helps to balance the pH levels in the mouth and prevents the formation of dental cavities.
Chewing cardamom seeds also helps to get rid of bad breath. Cineole, an active ingredient in cardamom, has strong antiseptic properties that reduce bacterial growth.
- Relieves Depression And Mental Stress
Cardamom essence and the essential oil are used to reduce stress and relieve depression. Thiamine, a strong antioxidant in cardamom essence reduces oxidative stress in the brain and acts as a natural antidepressant, that is more effective when combined with aromatherapy, to relax the mind and body.
The high amounts of Vitamin C and thiamine in cardamom enhance neurodevelopment and brain function. Thiamine also helps proper neural-transmission while. Vitamin C strengthens the immune system and helps to maintain a healthy brain.
Helps Hair Growth And Healthy Skin
Vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, polyphenols, and flavonoids in cardamom have powerful antioxidant and antimicrobial properties that help to improve skin and hair health by;Improving blood circulation
Reducing acne, skin infections, and blemishes
Nourishing the scalp and hair roots, assisting hair growth
Reducing scalp infection