Cardamom refers to several plants of the genera Elettaria andAmomum in the ginger family Zingiberaceae. Both genera are native to India, they are recognised by their small seed pod, triangular in cross-section and spindle-shaped, with a thin papery outer shell and small black seeds. Elettaria pods are light green while Amomum pods are larger and dark brown. The word cardamom is derived from the Latin “cardamomum”, theromanization of the Greek “καρδάμωμον” (kardamomon), in turn from “κάρδαμον” (kardamon), “cress” + “ἄμωμον” (amomon), a kind of an Indian spice plant. The earliest attested form of the word kardamon is the Mycenaean Greek ka-da-mi-ja, written in Linear B syllabic script.
Health Benefits of Cardamom
Commonly known in India as “choti elaichi”, cardamom’s scientific name is Elletaria cardamomum. Though it is more popularly used as a herbal spice , which is added in dishes to provide a strong aroma and flavor but in Ayurveda it is considered to be a very useful and effective medicine. In Ayurvedic texts cardamom is referred to as “ela”.
According to traditional wisdom of Ayurveda, cardamom is effective in improving digestion. It helps those suffering from stomach cramps. It is a good stimulant and beneficial for those suffering from flatulence and gas.
Cardamom also helps in cleansing the body as it has detoxifying properties. It is basically a warm spice and known to have originated from India. It improves blood circulation to the lungs and can be helpful in prevention of spasms or convulsions. Hence, cardamom in small quantities is beneficial for those suffering from asthma or bronchitis.
Cardamom enhances appetite and provides relief from acidity in the stomach. It is used in the cure of halitosis. It is beneficial for those suffering from various kinds of respiratory allergies. When you have sore throat, you can try out a little quantity of this medicinal spice.
Those suffering from nausea as well as excessive threat can also try out cardamom. Along with some other medicines, it can be used for treating mouth ulcers. It is known to be a good cure for weakness in general. Some practitioners of Ayurevda also advise its use for treating infection of the urinary tract.
Cardamom is known to be helpful in balancing all three ‘doshas’ in the human body. Hence it is termed as “tridoshic”. A little quantity of cardamom is especially beneficial in balancing “kapha”. It can be used for balancing “vata” and “pitta” also.
