Known as “elachi” on the subcontinent, green cardamoms are packed full of amazing benefits. There’s so many to go through that once you’re done you’ll be sure to use it daily!
There are two types of cardamoms and both are used in masala chai (check our recipes for both of them [here]). We’ll focus on the true or green cardamom which comes from the plant species Elettaria cardamomum.
Originally from India, the spice is producd in numerous countries around the world today. Guatemala is the largest producer of green cardamoms in the world, annually producing around 29,000 tonnes. Next is India who produce about 15,000 tonnes a year.
Cardamoms are full of vitamins and minerals including vitamin A, vitamin C, riboflavin, niacin, thiamine, pyridoxine, zinc, phosphorous, manganese, magnesium, potassium, sodium, calcium, iron and copper.
Now enough of the background, what are the benefits? Well ready yourself people because its a long list.
- Antimicrobial properties: essential cardamom oils have been found to inhibit the growth of common food poisoning microbes.
- Anti-Carcinogenic Properties:
- Good for cardiovascular health:
- Anti-Spasmodic Properties:
- Treating Urinary disorders
- Anti-depressant
- Protects against gastrointestinal diseases
- Cholesterol control
- Anti-spasmodic Properties
- Dental diseases
- Improves blood circulation
- Detoxifies
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties
- Good for nausea and Vomitting
- Freshens Breathe
- Folk Hiccup remedy
- Soothes a sore throat
- Aphrodisiac properties
