The benefits of Cardamom on human life

Cardamom has been around for centuries, used in both cooking and medicine. It's made from the seeds of different plants, like ginger, and has a unique flavor that can be used in a variety of dishes. It can be found in whole seed pods, pre-ground spice powder, essential oils, and herbal supplements, usually in capsules. Studies have suggested that it may have some health benefits, but more research is needed before it can be used to treat medical conditions.

1. Antimicrobial Ability :

If you're looking for an anti-microbial boost, cardamom might be the way to go. The oil from the seeds of the plant can help kill off bacteria and fungi, according to one study. It's thought that the oil can do this because it can damage certain bacteria's cell membranes. Other studies have also found that it can fight off almost all microorganisms, and it could even be used in new anti-microbial drugs. However, it's important to check with your doctor before taking any herbal remedies, as some can interact with your current medication or have side effects.

2. Metabolic Syndrome and Diabetes :

If you're looking for an anti-microbial boost, cardamom could be the way to go. The oil from the seeds of the plant has been found to be effective in killing bacteria and fungi, and other studies have suggested it could be a part of new anti-microbial drugs. However, it's important to check with a doctor before taking any herbal remedies, as some may interact with existing medications or have side effects.

3. Heart Health :

Cardamom has been linked to improving heart health in animals, but more research is needed to figure out how it affects human health. A study in rats showed that it could help reduce the risk of heart attacks, and its antioxidant properties could also help improve heart health. However, more studies are needed to confirm this in humans. Another study in rats by Trusted Source found that Cardamom oil had a positive effect on cholesterol levels. The rats were given a high-cholesterol diet for eight weeks, and the ones that got Cardamom had lower cholesterol levels and triglycerides at the end.

4. Oral Health :

Cardamom has been used as a breath freshener for centuries, and not just for its flavor. A recent study has suggested that it may be beneficial for oral health, as it may help balance the pH level in the mouth. Additionally, it may be able to combat bacteria, which is a major contributor to cavities and gum disease. The findings of the study indicate that cardamom extract is effective in disrupting bacteria, which may lead to gum disease and infections.

5. Liver Health :

Ayurvedic medicine has long been associated with the detoxifying properties of cardamom. Although there is currently no scientific evidence to support this claim, it appears that cardamom may have some beneficial effects on the liver. The liver is an essential organ in the body that is responsible for the removal of toxins. In one study, participants with non-alcoholic fatty liver (NHLD) who were overweight or obese were enrolled in the study. Those who received green cardamom supplementation showed improvements in liver health markers Trusted Source compared to those who received a placebo. Additionally, in another animal study Trusted Source, researchers fed rats a diet of high fat and high carbohydrate content and measured liver health markers after 8 weeks. The rats that were given cardamom showed a decrease in liver stress compared to those that were given an unfiltered diet. This suggests that the use of cardamom may be beneficial in protecting the liver from certain forms of damage.

6. Anticancer Properties :

Cardamom has been found to contain natural compounds that may possess anti-cancer properties. While it is not a substitute for cancer treatment, research has suggested that the spice may possess anticancer properties. For instance, a study conducted on mice revealed that supplementing with cardamom over a period of 15 days reduced the size and mass of the mice's skin tumors.

7. Ulcer Prevention :

Cardamom, like its cousin ginger, has been suggested to be beneficial in treating digestive issues. It has been used to create stomach-soothing teas, and may also be beneficial in preventing ulcers in the stomach. A recent study conducted on rats involved the administration of high doses of aspirin to induce stomach ulcers, followed by the administration of cardamom extract. The results of the study showed that the rats that were given cardamom extract experienced fewer and less ulcers than those that were not. Additionally, another study conducted by Trusted Source revealed that the combination of cardamom and turmeric, as well as the herbal extract and aspirin, was effective in protecting against stomach ulcers.

Nutritional value of Cardamom :

Cardamom is a dietary source of a variety of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, as well as being a very low-carbohydrate and calorie source. According to the USDA, one tablespoon of cardamom contains 18 calories, 0.4 grams of total fat, 4 grams of carbohydrates, 1.6 grams of fiber, 0.6 grams of protein, and 64 milligrams of potassium. It also contains 22 milligrams of calcium, 0.81 milligrams of iron, 13 milligrams of magnesium, and 10 milligrams of phosphorus.

Risks and Side Effects :

It is recommended to consult a medical professional prior to taking any natural supplements containing cardamom, as there are no reported risks associated with its use in cooking or any adverse side effects. Cardamom's use as a spice and flavouring agent is generally safe for the majority of individuals. The dosage of cardamom taken as a supplement is not set in stone; many capsules and tablets contain 400-500 mg of dried herbs per pill. It is advised to consult a healthcare professional before taking any cardamom-containing pills or other natural supplements.

Summary :

The potential health benefits of cardamom remain to be explored, however, it is generally accepted that moderate amounts of the spice are safe for the majority of individuals. Cardamom's natural compounds possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-oxidant properties that may contribute to improved health. It is too soon to determine if this spice can be used to treat any medical conditions.