Why You Should Consume Cardamom and How to Add it to Your Diet

Cardamom (Elaichi) is an aromatic spice, consisting of whole or ground seeds of a plant of the ginger family. It has a strong aroma and unique flavor combining floral and spicy notes. Cardamom is widely used in South Asian and Middle Eastern cooking, both in sweet and savory delicacies.

Cardamom is available in two varieties, black and green. Green cardamom is more commonly used, it has a milder flavor. Black cardamom is more aromatic and smokier. Cardamom pods contain small black and hard seeds, the entire pod can be added to dishes, but mostly the seeds are removed, crushed, and added to the dish. The seeds contain a unique flavor and the scent of cardamom.

Cardamom is widely used in curries and desserts. In some parts of the world, it is enjoyed in coffee and tea as well. It works well with cinnamon and nutmeg, thus adding a perfect spiciness to desserts. It is also a major ingredient in the Indian spice blend – garam masala.

Cardamom has several health benefits, it has antioxidant properties and contains essential minerals like potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Some known health benefits are discussed in the next section of this blog. We will also explore the various ways in which we can add cardamom to our diet.

9 Health Benefits of consuming cardamom

Cardamom is believed to have several health benefits, like its use in ayurvedic medicine to reduce blood sugar; or as an ingredient in organic toothpastes. Some of the health benefits of cardamom are discussed here.

1. Improves Digestive Health

Cardamom stimulates the secretion of digestive enzymes in the stomach, this alleviates digestive issues like bloating, gas, and cramps.

2. Better Oral Health

Cardamom freshens the breath; neutralizes bad odors and promotes oral health. This makes it a key ingredient in herbal toothpaste.

3. Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Cardamom has anti-inflammatory properties; this helps reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms associated with asthma and arthritis.

4. Improves Blood Circulation

Cardamom is a natural blood thinner, it can prevent blood clots, and reduce the risk of heart disease. It promotes a better cardiovascular health.

5. Improves Kidney Function

Cardamom is a diuretic and improves kidney function. It aids in eliminating toxins from the body and promotes increased urine flow.

6. Antioxidant

The antioxidant properties of cardamom protect cell damage from free radicals. It reduces the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and can slow down ageing process.

7. Lowers Blood Pressure

It has been seen that regular cardamom use reduces the risk of hypertension and related cardiovascular diseases.

8. Relieves Stress

Cardamom has been used since traditional times to improve mental clarity and relieve stress. It calms the mind and boosts mood.

9. Boosts Immunity

Cardamom essential oil possesses antimicrobial properties, which help fight harmful bacteria and viruses. This protects from infections and boosts immunity.

Cardamom has a wide array of benefits. When consumed in moderation, it helps our body in multiple ways to stay healthy.

How can I add Cardamom to my diet?

Cardamom is widely used in Indian cooking and there are multiple ways to incorporate this spice into your diet.

1. Cardamom Tea:

Cardamom tea is probably one of the easiest and most common ways of incorporating cardamom into your diet. Crush a few pods of cardamom and add them to boiling water. Then add your tea leaves and milk. This makes a very flavorful tea.

2. Cardamom in Baking:

Cardamom is widely used in baking goods. It makes an aromatic flavoring agent for cakes, cookies, and bread.

3. Biryani Masala:

Cardamom is a key ingredient in biryani masala. It gives a unique aroma and flavor to our loved biryanis.

4. Curries:

Cardamom powder, or crushed pods adds a unique taste to curries, stews, and sauces.

5. Beverages:

Cardamom is widely used as an aromatic in coffee, hot chocolate, and smoothies.

Our Takeaway

Cardamom adds a unique flavor to sweet and savory dishes. It is important to note that cardamomhas a very strong flavor. Thus, it should be added in moderation.

Cardamom is widely used in Indian food preparation. Its health benefits make it even more tempting to use. It adds depth to our dishes and makes them even more delicious. You can buy cardamom online at Surya Masale, along with a wide range of spices used in Indian Cuisine. Happy Cooking!