Cardamom History:

Cardamom, or elettaria cardamomum, originated in southern India and is part of the ginger family. It’s one of the oldest spices known to date. Offering both a sweet and spicy flavor, often described as warm and pungent, with a hint of citrus, green cardamom provides big taste in a small package. Green cardamom remains the third most expensive spice by weight because harvesting is quite labor intensive. Because it grows in pod form, each pod needs to be opened to separate the seeds. The seeds are then ground to a fine powder rich in flavor.

Cardamom is highly valued throughout the world. Ancient Egyptians chewed on the aromatic cardamom pods as a way to freshen breath and keep teeth clean, while the Greeks and Romans used them for scented oils and perfume. Vikings came across cardamom early on and brought it back to scandinavia, where it is still popular today. Cardamom is often best known as a staple in Indian cuisine.

Green Cardamom Uses:

During ancient times, cardamom was used medicinally in a variety of ways. The Greek physician, Hippocrates, wrote about the digestive benefits of cardamom. It was thought that cardamom would improve stomach maladies ranging from colic to heartburn, as well as a treatment for headaches, asthma, bronchitis, and cardiovascular disease. Cardamom has antibacterial and anti-microbial properties, and modern-day research is uncovering further benefits of cardamom as well. In rat studies, it has been shown to prevent obesity, decrease cholesterol, and improve liver function. Further research is needed to determine long-term benefits in humans.

Green cardamom is used in both sweet and savory dishes and is versatile in use. In Indian cuisine, cardamom powder is often “bloomed” in hot oil either alone or with other spices to bring out the flavor and intensity of the spice prior to adding other ingredients. It is a common feature in curries and rice dishes. Cardamom is found in Dutch and Scandanavian style cookies, cakes, and pastries. It pairs well with poultry, fish, and pulses, as well as beverages such as tea and coffee.

Cardamom Benefits:

Cardamom, the Queen of spices, is a fruity and aromatic spice that has been used since ancient times as a natural remedy for colds and respiratory infections. It has incredible health properties while also being one of the most delicious spices you can buy. This aromatic spice is used for cooking and also for an amazing array of health benefits. Cardamom tea or coffee are effective remedies for colds and respiratory infections, as well as for digestive problems.

From leaving you feeling warm and cozy to helping treat the common cold, cardamom is a taste of "home" that you’ll enjoy any time of the year. Cardamom is used in India's traditional Ayurvedic medicine; the seeds are said to have a warming effect that helps digestion and relieves bloating.

This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. For educational purposes only.

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