If you think that cardamom is just an ordinary aromatic spice, you are wrong. On the contrary, it is very powerful. This plant, which comes from the rainforests of India, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka, is widely used in gastronomy for its flavor. However, it is beneficial for health.
This spice has been used for centuries in traditional and natural Asian medicine as an antidepressant and to treat emotional problems. So much that the essential oil it possesses is one of the main oils used in aromatherapy. This stimulating effect on the body makes us stay energetic and active. Besides, it contains fiber and starch.
It also helps to detoxify our body, is anti-inflammatory, and is even effective in relieving general discomfort and headaches. It is also proven to be useful for digestive problems, especially in cases of diarrhea, colic, and gas.
In traditional Indian medicine, cardamom seeds are considered a cardiac tonic and an expectorant. Chewing them cleanses the mouth and disguises bad breath. And so on, among many other benefits.
Ways to use it
There is no doubt that in cooking cardamom is an excellent flavor enhancer and flavoring. You can get it in whole pods, the chopped spice itself, just the seeds, and in powdered form.
There are several uses you can put this plant to. If there is some food you want to highlight, you can sprinkle some of this powder on it or grind some of its seeds.
But if you want to relax or avoid stomach problems, you can prepare tea. For example, place ΒΌ cup of cardamom seeds in half a cup of boiling water for five minutes. Then take the water to a teapot with black tea and strain out the seeds.
This tea is also good for those who suffer from a lack of appetite. It is advisable to drink a cup half an hour before meals so that it has the effect of increasing your desire to eat.