Top 6 Health Benefits Of Cardamom, Types of Cardamom, Nutritional Value

Author : Vpure India | Published On : 29 Mar 2024

Cardamom, The "queen of spices," is useful for more than just giving your curries and sweets a refined taste. Traditional healers have been fascinated by this small green pod for ages due to its astonishing array of potential health benefits of Cardamom. Cardamom is a great complement to your wellness path since modern science is beginning to unlock its mysteries. Cardamom is a highly valued ingredient in many cuisines, medicines, and cultural ceremonies due to its long history, enticing perfume, and several health advantages.

This tiny green pod, boasting a complex aroma and a taste that dances between sweet, sharp, and slightly floral, has captivated palates for millennia. Comes from the lush forests of the western ghats of south India. It originated in India, but the uses of cardamom is worldwide today and used in both sweet and savory recipes. You can buy Indian spices online from the V-pure India website for the best deals.

Top 6 Benefits of Cardamom

Digestive Health:

In terms of benefits of cardamom One of the most well-known benefits of cardamom lies in its ability to support digestive health. This aromatic spice contains essential oils like terpinyl acetate, which stimulate the secretion of digestive enzymes, aiding in the breakdown of food and promoting efficient nutrient absorption. Adding cardamom to your meals or enjoying it as a soothing tea can help soothe digestive discomfort and promote overall gut health.

Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties:

Cardamom is rich in potent antioxidants, including flavonoids and polyphenols, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. These antioxidants scavenge harmful free radicals, reducing cellular damage and lowering the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders.

Heart Health (Health Benefits of Cardamom)

Maintaining heart health is crucial for overall well-being, and this benefit of cardamom may play a beneficial role in this regard. Studies suggest that cardamom can help lower blood pressure by promoting vasodilation and the widening of blood vessels, which improves blood flow and reduces strain on the heart.

Blood Sugar Regulation:

For individuals managing diabetes or at risk of developing insulin resistance, cardamom may offer valuable support in regulating blood sugar levels. Research indicates that certain compounds in cardamom, such as cineole and limonene, possess hypoglycemic properties, meaning they can help lower blood glucose levels.

Respiratory Health (Benefits of Cardamom) :

In traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda, cardamom has long been revered for its respiratory benefits. The aromatic compounds present in cardamom, such as camphene and alpha-terpineol, exhibit expectorant and bronchodilator properties, which help alleviate respiratory congestion and promote easier breathing.

6.A Fresh Perspective on Oral Health:

Cardamom's antibacterial properties might contribute to good oral health. Studies suggest that cardamom extract might be effective against some strains of bacteria that can lead to bad breath and gum disease.

Know the Rich & Complex Flavor to take Benefits of Cardamom

Cardamom boasts a complex and unique flavour profile that's difficult to describe with just one word. The rich flavour profile of cardamom, which includes notes of citrus, mint, and spice, gives a variety of recipes more depth and complexity. The flavour properties of cardamom are very rich. Whether used for sweets, aromatic rice, or savoury curries, cardamom creates a unique and unforgettable flavour.

Warmth: Cardamom offers a gentle warmth similar to cinnamon but without the spiciness.
Sweetness: There's a subtle sweetness to cardamom, like vanilla or anise.
Citrus: Zesty citrus notes, like those from lemon or orange peel, add a refreshing touch.
Pepper: A hint of peppery spice lingers on the tongue, adding a touch of complexity.
Floral: Delicate floral undertones contribute to the overall fragrance and taste.
Menthol: A cooling, minty sensation, similar to menthol, rounds out the experience.

Types of Cardamom (Benefits of Cardamom)

There are mainly two types of cardamom used in the Indian market: green cardamom and black cardamom.

Green Cardamom:

This is the most common type of cardamom found in Indian Markets. It's the one referred to as "true cardamom" and is native to the rainforests of South India. Green cardamom has a:

Light green colour: The pods are light green and spindle-shaped, with papery exteriors that reveal the dark brown seeds inside.
Complex flavour profile: Green cardamom offers a complex taste that's warm and slightly sweet, with citrusy and floral notes. It also has a hint of peppery spice and a refreshing menthol coolness.
Culinary uses: Green cardamom is incredibly versatile and can be used in both sweet and savoury dishes. It's a key ingredient in Indian curries, biryanis, and chai tea. It also adds a touch of magic to baked goods, pastries, and even coffee.

Black Cardamom:

This type of cardamom is less common but offers a bolder flavour profile. It originates in the Eastern Himalayas. Black cardamom has:

Dark brown or black colour: The pods are larger than green cardamom and have a rough, dark brown or black exterior with black seeds inside.
Smokey and intense flavour: Effects of cardamom has a strong, smoky aroma and a more intense flavour compared to green cardamom. It's characterized by earthy, eucalyptus-like notes with a touch of sweetness and a lingering peppery heat.
Culinary uses: Black cardamom is best suited for savoury dishes. It's often used in Indian spice blends like garam masala and tandoori masala, adding depth and smokiness to curries, stews, and braised meats.

Nutritional Property of Cardamom to take Benefits of Cardamom

Despite the benefits of cardamom, it is a low-calorie spice. Here's a breakdown of its key nutritional components per one tablespoon (roughly 6 grams) of ground cardamom.

Calories: Approximately 18

Fat: Nearly 0.4 grams (g)

Carbohydrates: About 4.0 g

Protein: Roughly 0.6 g

Fiber: Around 1.6 g

Some of the main Benefits of Cardamom

Cardamom also boasts a small amount of essential vitamins and minerals, including:

Potassium is Important for regulating blood pressure and fluid balance.
Calcium is essential for bone health and muscle function.
Iron plays a vital role in red blood cell formation and oxygen transport.
Magnesium supports muscle and nerve function and contributes to energy production.
Phosphorus is Crucial for bone health and cellular processes.

Important Note:

The nutritional information can vary slightly depending on the specific type of cardamom (green & black) and the drying process.