Cardamom for good health
Cardamom (Elettaria cardamom) known as Karadamungu in Sinhala and Elakkay in Tamil is native to East Asia and is grown abundantly in India, Sri Lanka, Guatemala, Indo China and Tanzania.
Cardamom is known to have many plant derived chemical compounds that have antioxidant properties and is used to treat infections in teeth and gums, to prevent and throat troubles and digestive disorders. It is also used to break up kidney stones and gall stones. It has been used as an antidote for both snake and scorpion venom. Cardamom is enriched with minerals like potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron and is rich in many vital vitamins including riboflavin, niacin, vitamin-C that are essential for optimum health.
Cardamom is beneficial for relieving symptoms of asthma and bronchitis. Oral administration of cardamom seeds are known for inhibiting the growth of cancer cells, with rare cases of completely destroying the cells. Regular consumption of cardamom treats high cholesterol levels and reduces high blood pressure; thus, lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Cardamom has been highly effective in treating gastrointestinal problems such as indigestion, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, constipation, upset stomachs and flatulence. It boosts appetite in anorexic patients, a disorder characterized by excessive weight loss. When added to tea, it gives a pleasant aroma, and is considered an effective remedy for depression. Cardamom-oil is used in traditional Ayurveda medicine as an antiseptic, antispasmodic, carminative, digestive, diuretic, expectorant, stimulant, stomachic and as a tonic.
Source: The Nation
Published: 07 Sep 2014
Category: Features, Wellness and Complementary Therapies
