Scientific name of Green cardamom: Elettaria cardamomum Maton
Name of Green cardamom in different languages:-
English: True cardamom, Cardamom
Sanskrit: Ilaychi इलायची, Ela, Elabari
Hindi: Elaichi, Chota Elaichi
Malayalam: Elam ഏലം
Plant Description of Green cardamom
Cardamom is a herbaceous perennial plant growing up to 2 to 4 m in height. The leaves are pale green, long, sword-shaped, alternately arranged in two rows, 40 to 60 cm long, with a long pointed at the end. The flowers are white and violet inside the flower, the fruit is three-sided, pale green and it becomes yellowish green when the ripe pod is sized 1 to 2 cm long, containing several black seeds.
Useful plant parts:
Seeds
Medicinal uses:
Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) is a popular spice known for its unique flavor and aroma, but it also has several potential medicinal uses and health benefits. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine. Here are some of the medicinal uses of cardamom:
- Digestive Aid: Cardamom is often used to alleviate digestive problems such as indigestion, bloating, and gas. It can help stimulate the secretion of digestive enzymes and improve overall digestion.
- Anti-inflammatory: Cardamom contains compounds with anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds may help reduce inflammation in the body, which can be beneficial for conditions like arthritis.
- Oral Health: Chewing on cardamom pods or using cardamom-infused mouthwash may help improve oral health by combating bad breath and promoting gum health. Some toothpaste and oral care products also contain cardamom oil.
- Respiratory Health: Cardamom’s aroma and essential oils can help soothe respiratory symptoms. It may help relieve coughs, asthma, and other respiratory issues. In Ayurvedic medicine, cardamom is sometimes used to treat respiratory disorders.
- Antioxidant Properties: Cardamom contains antioxidants that can help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
- Blood Pressure: Some studies suggest that cardamom may have a mild hypotensive (blood pressure-lowering) effect, which can be beneficial for individuals with high blood pressure.
- Antimicrobial: Cardamom has demonstrated antimicrobial properties and may help combat bacterial and fungal infections. It’s often used in traditional remedies for throat and mouth infections.
- Anti-Cancer Properties: Some research has shown that the compounds in cardamom may have anti-cancer potential, although more studies are needed to confirm these effects.
- Weight Management: Cardamom may help with weight management by boosting metabolism and promoting a feeling of fullness. It’s often included in weight loss and detoxification diets.
- Stress Reduction: The aroma of cardamom is known for its calming and stress-relieving effects. It can be used in aromatherapy or added to teas to promote relaxation.
- Diuretic Effect: Cardamom may have a mild diuretic effect, helping to increase urine production and potentially aiding in the elimination of toxins from the body.
- Menstrual Relief: Some women use cardamom to alleviate menstrual discomfort and irregularities. It may help relieve cramps and reduce the severity of PMS symptoms.
It’s important to note that while cardamom offers various potential health benefits, it should not be used as a replacement for medical treatment for specific medical conditions. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using cardamom or any other natural remedy, especially if you have underlying health issues or are taking medications. Additionally, individual responses to cardamom can vary, so it’s essential to use it in moderation and be mindful of any allergic reactions or adverse effects.
Chemical content:
α-terpineol, myrcene, limonene, menthone, β-phellandrene, sabinene and heptane.
Medicinal Properties:
Antimycotic, antibacterial, carminative, spasmolytic Antiviral antispasmodic and expectorant
How to prepare medicines:
Green cardamom is one of the ingredients in the Ayurveda medicines like-
