Cardamom is a spice with an intense, slightly sweet flavor that some people compare to mint.
It originated in India, but today it is known all over the world and is used in both sweet and savory dishes.
Cardamom is an exotic spice that has a slightly peppery taste. It is obtained by grinding the pods of the elettaria plant, grown in countries such as India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal and others.
Many cosmetic companies use its essential oils as an ingredient in their products. Apart from its central place in Indian and Asian cuisine, the powder is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine.
The spice is delicious, aromatic and has a number of health and beauty benefits. Studies show that cardamom can help detoxify the body if consumed more often.
What nutrients does cardamom contain?
Cardamom has vitamins, minerals as well as fiber. It is also very low in carbohydrates and calories.
According to Medicalnewstoday, one tablespoon of ground cardamom contains the following nutrients:
- 18 calories;
- 0.4 g of fat;
- 4.0 g of carbohydrates;
- 1.6 g of fiber;
- 0.6 g of proteins;
- 64.9 mg of potassium;
- 22.2 mg calcium;
- 0.81 mg of iron;
- 13.3 mg of magnesium;
- 10.3 mg of phosphorus
What are the biggest benefits of taking cardamom?
1. Promotes body detoxification
Cardamom contains a strong cleansing agent that is extremely effective in detoxifying the body in summer. It helps the kidneys to more easily expel toxins that have entered them. This is mostly because of the essential oils in it.When dirt accumulates in the body, it shows on the skin. Pores get clogged, pimples and rashes form. The oils and biochemicals in cardamom help the metabolic system deal with toxins, which prevents premature aging.
2. Natural antidepressant
Nowadays, many people get sick under the influence of stress. Taking cardamom is an excellent remedy for reducing tension and dealing with depression.
The easiest way to use cardamom for anxiety is to boil a few pods in water or boil some powder, then strain and drink the tea.
Cardamom helps with depression and it can be used in aromatherapy. It helps with headaches, anxiety, pain and lack of sleep.
The essential oils found in the spice are actually some of the most well-known oils, some of the most commonly used in aromatherapy.
3. Improves digestion.
The daily life of many of us is quite busy and we often have to eat on the go or skip breakfast or lunch. And this affects the stomach badly. Being from the ginger family, cardamom improves digestion.
Because it has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, cardamom improves our metabolism and can be included in many health regimens.
It has been shown to improve the secretion of bile acid in the stomach, which plays an important role in the absorption of fat and fat-soluble vitamins.
4. Protects the heart.
Some animal studies have linked cardamom consumption to better heart health. Although more research is needed, it is known that cardamom can help prevent heart attacks. This is due to its antioxidant properties that improve heart function.
Another study in rats found that cardamom oil reduced bad cholesterol, which is also a prerequisite for a healthier heart.
Are there any side effects of taking cardamom?
Using cardamom as a spice or in tea form is safe as long as you don't overdo it.
And yet its taste is slightly burning and not everyone likes it.
Since it strongly affects the stomach, it is good to approach with caution if you have a stomach diseases of a chronic nature.
An example of such a condition is a stomach ulcer. It is also not good to consume it in diseases of the bile.
And one interesting fact at the end:
The reason the Middle East people add cardamom to coffee and tea is because of cardamom's ability to reduce the effects of caffeine.
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Stob, Bulgaria