Cardamom with shell powder

Seed

Physiological Effects Antiseptic, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, aromatic, astringent, carminative, digestive, diaphoretic, expectorant, kidney yang tonic, mucolytic, sialagogue, stimulant, stomachic, tonic

Cardamom is used in Asian medicine to strengthen bones and ligaments.

It is also known to strengthen the heart and lungs and reduce stomach acidity, and it is said to stimulate the mind and impart joy, clarity, and mental alertness.

It is also considered to be an aphrodisiac.

Cardamom is used in the treatment of anorexia, appetite loss, asthma, bloating, bronchitis, catarrh, celiac disease, colds, colic, congestion, cough, cramps, depression, diarrhoea, dysentery, enuresis, erectile dysfunction, emphysema, fainting, fatigue, fetal restlessness, fever, flatulence, halitosis, headache, heartburn, indigestion, kidney stones, laryngitis, lung congestion, malabsorption, morning sickness, polyuria, poor circulation, premature ejaculation, spermatorrhea, stomachache, vomiting, and weak chi.

 

 Cardamom is currently the third most expensive spice in the world as each seed must be handpicked. As cardamom seeds’ volatile essential oils evaporate easily, it is best to buy the whole seeds, then remove the outer covering and grind them as needed.

Edible Uses Cardamom is widely used in cuisines around the world, notably Indian, Arabic, Asian, Ethiopian, German, and Scandinavian.

When added to grains it enhances the digestibility of their phytic acid content; it also improves the digestibility of milk and dairy products.

It has a pleasant, sweet flavour, reminiscent of that of eucalyptus and pine, and it can be used to improve the flavour of bitter herbs.

Cardamom was a favoured ingredient in ancient love potions. The seed is sometimes added to smoking blends.

In Arabic cultures, serving cardamom to a guest is a sign of hospitality. The seed is also a great breath freshener; people chew it after drinking alcohol or garlic to conceal their indulgence.

The essential oil of cardamom is used to scent perfume and massage oils and as an insect repellent.

Constituents Essential oils (borneol, camphor, carvone, cineole, eucalyptol, limonene, linalool, methone, terpinine, sabinene), caprylic acid

Generally considered very safe. Avoid in cases of ulcers.