Cardamom: Powerful Antioxidant Source and Natural Deodorizer
Introduction
Cardamom has a spicy and slightly sweet scent compared to mint. People use cardamom seeds, oils, and extracts worldwide in various recipes, both sweet and savory. It is a powerful antioxidant source and a good natural deodorizer. Here I will discuss the scientifically proven health benefits of cardamom. These medicinal properties are believed to be amazing and have been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat and prevent various health issues. 
Pods of green cardamom in a pile
Cardamom Beneficial Uses
It is a Good Antioxidant and Diuretic to Lower Blood Pressure
Cardamom can help people with high blood pressure. In another study, 20 newly diagnosed hypertensive adults used 3 grams of cardamom powder per day. The promising results of this study may be related to its high antioxidant content. In fact, by the end of the study, the participant’s antioxidant status had increased by 90%.https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cardamom-benefits
Antioxidants have been associated with lowering blood pressure. Researchers also suggest that the spice may lower blood pressure through its diuretic properties, which may promote urination to remove water from the body, such as around the heart. In an experiment, its extract increased urination and lowered blood pressure in rats.
It May Contain Anti-Cancer Compounds
Compounds found in cardamom may help fight cancer cells. Studies in mice have shown that its powder may increase the activity of certain enzymes that help fight cancer. This spice can also enhance the ability of natural killer cells to attack tumors. One study exposed two groups of mice to a compound that causes skin cancer. Group One received 500 mg of powder per kilogram of body weight daily, while Group Two did not receive this treatment.
In one study, only 29% of the cardamom group developed cancer after 12 weeks, compared with more than 90% of the control group. Studies on human cancer cells have shown similar results. One experiment showed that certain spices compounds interfered with oral cancer cell growth in vitro.In mice or in vitro, the studies have only promised promising results. We need human research before we can make a compelling argument.
Cardamom Prevents Chronic Diseases
It is rich in compounds that help fight inflammation. Inflammation occurs when a foreign object comes into contact with the body. Chronic diseases can be caused by prolonged inflammation, which is necessary and beneficial in acute stages. It is rich in antioxidants that protect cells from damage and prevent the development of inflammation. One study found that doses of 50–100 mg/kg body weight (23–46 mg/lb) of cardamom extract effectively inhibited at least four different inflammatory compounds in rats.
Another study in rats showed that consuming its powder reduced liver inflammation caused by a diet high in carbohydrates and fat. Studies on cardamom’s anti-inflammatory effects in humans are limited. However, studies show that supplementation can increase antioxidant status by up to 90%.
Cardamom May Help Resolve Digestive Problems Such as Ulcers
For thousands of years, this has been used to aid digestion. It is often mixed with other medicinal spices to relieve discomfort, nausea, and vomiting.
Its best-studied property for soothing stomach upsets is its potential ability to heal ulcers. In one study, rats were given cardamom, turmeric, and senbun leaf extracts in boiling water before exposure to high-dose aspirin to induce stomach ulcers. These rats developed fewer ulcers than those given aspirin alone. A similar study in rats found that its extract alone could completely prevent stomach ulcers or reduce the size of stomach ulcers by at least 50%.
In fact, at a dose of 12.5 mg per kg of body weight (5.7 mg per pound). Its extract was more effective than common anti-ulcer drugs. In vitro studies have shown that it can protect against Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium associated with the development of most stomach ulcers. More research is needed to know if this spice has similar anti-ulcer effects in humans.
Cardamom can Treat Bad Breath and Prevent Tooth Decay
Using cardamom to treat bad breath and improve oral health is an ancient remedy. In some cultures, it’s common to eat a whole cardamom pod after a meal to refresh your breath. Chewing gum manufacturer Wrigley also uses this spice in one of his products. The reason it provides mint-like freshness may be due to its ability to fight common oral bacteria. One study found that its extract effectively fought bacteria that cause tooth decay. In some test tube cases, the extract blocked bacterial growth up to 2.08 cm.
Additional studies have shown that its extract can reduce the number of bacteria in saliva samples by 54%. However, all these studies were done in vitro, so it is unclear how the results translate to humans.
It has Antibacterial Properties
It also has antibacterial properties outside the mouth and can help treat infections. Studies show that its extracts and essential oils contain compounds that fight several common strains of bacteria. Test-tube studies examined the effects of these extracts against drug-resistant strains of Candida, a yeast that can cause fungal infections. The extract was able to inhibit the growth of some strains by 0.39 to 0.59 inches (0.99 to 1.49 cm).
Additional test-tube studies have found cardamom essential oil and extracts are effective. In some cases, more effective, than standard drugs against E. coli. Escherichia coli and staphylococci, which can cause food poisoning, Test-tube studies have also shown that cardamom essential oil fights salmonella, a bacteria that causes food poisoning, and campylobacter, which contributes to stomach irritation. Previous studies on cardamom’s antibacterial effects have only examined laboratory-isolated bacterial strains. So, at this time, there is not enough evidence to claim that this spice has the same effect on humans.
Cardamom Improves Breathing and Oxygen Consumption
The compounds found in cardamom help increase airflow to the lungs and improve breathing. Using cardamom in aromatherapy produces an invigorating scent that improves the body’s ability to utilize oxygen during exercise. One study asked a group of participants to inhale cardamom essential oil for 1 minute before walking on a treadmill at 15-minute intervals. This group had a remarkably higher oxygen intake as compared to the control group. Another way cardamom can improve breathing and oxygen consumption is by relaxing the airways.
This is especially useful in treating asthma. Studies in rats and rabbits have shown that injections of cardamom extract can relax the airways in the throat. If this extract had a similar effect on asthmatics, it might prevent the narrowing of inflamed airways and improve breathing.
It Helps to Lower Blood Sugar
Consuming cardamom in powder form can help lower blood sugar levels. One study found that when rats were fed a high-fat, high-carbohydrate (HFHC) diet. Their blood sugar levels remained elevated longer than on a normal diet. Rats on the HFHC diet who received cardamom powder did not experience elevated blood glucose levels more than rats on the normal diet. However, this powder may not have the same effect on his type 2 diabetes.
One group consumed black tea alone, while the other group added 3 grams of cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger to their daily black tea intake for eight weeks. They found that cinnamon, but not cardamom or ginger, improved blood sugar control.
Other Potential Health Benefits of Cardamom
Cardamom is believed to offer additional health benefits, beyond those listed above. A study in rats found that the high levels of antioxidants in spices prevented both liver enlargement and anxiety and even helped with weight loss.https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/herbs-and-spices/health-benefits-of-cardamom.html
- Liver Protection: Cardamom extract can reduce elevated liver enzymes, triglycerides, and cholesterol levels. It also prevents liver enlargement and liver weight and reduces the risk of fatty liver disease.
- Anxiety: A rat study suggests that cardamom extract may prevent anxious behavior. Antioxidant levels in the blood may be reduced, leading to the development of anxiety and other mood disorders.
- Weight Loss: A study of 80 overweight and obese prediabetic women found an association between cardamom and a modest reduction in waist size. However, rat studies on weight loss and spice have not yielded significant results. The number of studies linking cardamom to these potential benefits is staggering and limited, mostly performed on animals. Additionally, it’s unclear why spices can help improve liver health, anxiety, and weight.
It is Safe and Widely Used by Most People
It is generally safe for most people. Cardamom is frequently used in cooking and baking for its versatility. It is added to Indian curries and stews, as well as gingerbread, bread, and other baked goods. Given the promising research into cardamom’s medical uses, the use of cardamom supplements, extracts, and essential oils may become more popular. However, most studies have been done on animals, so there is currently no recommended dosage for the spice. A healthcare professional should supervise the use of dietary supplements. https://www.medicinenet.com/what_are_the_benefits_and_side_effects_of_cardamom/article.htm
Additionally, cardamom supplements may not be suitable for children or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Most supplements recommend 500 mg of cardamom powder or extract once or twice daily. The FDA is not regulating dietary supplements. So, if your healthcare provider asks you to try a cardamom supplement, be sure to choose a third-party-tested brand. Adding spice to your food with cardamom could be the safest way to try it.
Conclusion
Cardamom is an ancient remedy with many medicinal properties. It lowers blood pressure, improves breathing, and aids in weight loss. Additionally, animal and test-tube studies have shown that cardamom may help fight tumors, reduce anxiety, fight bacteria, and protect the liver. But the evidence in these cases is not so clear. However, there is little to no human research on the many health claims associated with this spice.
Humans require further research to determine if and how the findings from preliminary studies apply to them. Still, adding cardamom to your diet is a safe and effective way to improve your health. A healthcare practitioner should supervise and caution the use of its extracts and supplements, as they may have additional benefits For more please considerhttps://fusionwords.com/wp-admin/post.php?post=637&action=edit&message=10
Disclaimer: This article provides information that is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider.
