Health Benefits of Cardamom
It’s the sweet, familiar spice that adds its signature deep, fragrant flavor to chai tea, spice cake and curries. Native to India, rich, peppery cardamom seed is certainly well known for the flavor it imparts to cuisine, but it has also been found to offer many health benefits. Cardamom has been used in ancient and modern medicine for its healing properties and has been found to have cancer-preventative effects, to aid in digestion, and to lower blood pressure. Here are the health benefits of cardamom. (Source) (Source)
Cardamom for Gastrointestinal Health
Cardamom has been widely used in ancient and modern medicine for its gastroprotective benefits. In one study, multiple forms of cardamom extract were investigated for their effects on rats with gastric ulcers. The cardamom extracts were found to significantly inhibit gastric lesions, with methanolic extract having the most impact. (Source) In another study, cardamom extract was found to shorten gastrointestinal transit time significantly, implying cardamom’s potential in improving gut balance and digestive efficiency. (Source)
Cardamom for Blood Pressure
Cardamom has been researched for its potential as a blood-pressure lowering agent. In one study, individuals with newly-diagnosed hypertension were given 3-mg doses of cardamom powder for 3 months. The cardamom powder significantly reduced systolic, diastolic and mean blood pressure as well as antioxidant status. (Source)
Cardamom for Anti-Cancer Activity
Much research exists that shows cardmom’s usefulness in preventing and fighting cancer. One study with mice showed cardamom supplementation to reduce stomach tumors significantly compared to a control group. (Source) One in vitro study investigated the antiproliferative effects of cardamom on black pepper aqueous extract and found the extracts to significantly enhance the cytotoxic activity of cancer-killing cells, suggesting the potential of the spices in preventing cancer. (Source) Two unrelated studies found cardamom to reduce incidence of skin cancer (papillomagenesis) in mice (Source) (Source)
NUTRITIONAL PROFILE
Cardamom, 1 Tbsp (5.8g), ground
Calories: 18
Total Carbohydrate: 4g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Vitamin C: 2% Daily Value
Calcium: 2%
Iron: 4%
Magnesium: 3%
Potassium: 2%
Manganese: 80%