Cardamom benefits extend beyond its culinary uses.
It also promotesdigestive healthby soothing the stomach, relieving constipation, and reducing bloating.
No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.
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However, despite its popularity, scientific evidence remains limited.
Most studies have been conducted on animals or in lab prefs rather than on humans.
This preparation is then consumed over two months to help manage RA and other immune-related disorders.
Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods like cardamom can help manage these diseases and complement conventional treatments.
Bacterial Infections
Cardamom is thought to contain antibacterial properties, which could be useful against certain infections.
Another study looked into how cardamom may affect periodontal (gum) bacteria.
Cardamom extract showed antibacterial effects againstPorphyromonas gingivalisand other strains of bacteria commonly found in periodontal infections.
More vigorous research is needed before cardamom can be recommended for antibacterial use.
Cholesterol and Triglycerides
Cardamom may help lowercholesterol and triglyceridelevels, but the research is mixed.
High Blood Pressure
Cardamom may help reducehigh blood pressure.
In a small trial, people with grade one hypertension took three grams of cardamom daily for three months.
The research showed that cardamom helped reduce total cholesterol, triglycerides, and inflammation markers in the body.
While cardamom might lower some risk factors for heart disease, it doesnt address all of them.
Cancer
Studies suggest cardamom may offer potential benefits incancer preventionand treatment due to its bioactive compounds, particularly cardamonin.
This compound has been shown to reduce the growth oflung cancer cellsand kill cancer cells in laboratory prefs.
Cardamom’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may protect healthy cells from damage, lowering cancer risk.
Additionally, cardamom could help overcome drug resistance inchemotherapy, improving treatment effectiveness.
Chemotherapy Side Effects
Research suggests that cardamom may help alleviatechemotherapy side effects, particularly nausea and vomiting.
While promising, more clinical research is needed to confirm these benefits and establish safe, effective usage guidelines.
Liver Disease
Cardamom may benefit liver health, particularly for individuals withmetabolic dysfunction-associatedsteatoticliver disease(MASLD).
In a study, participants with MASLD were given 3 grams of cardamom daily for three months.
These findings suggest that cardamom may help reduce inflammation, potentially supporting liver health in people with this condition.
Diabetes
Cardamom may offer benefits formanaging diabetes, particularly by addressing factors associated with metabolic syndrome.
However, a 2022 review of cardamom supplementation showed mixed results.
Further research is needed to clarify its overall effectiveness for diabetes management.
Breathing
InAyurvedicmedicine, cardamom is used to improve breathing byclearing mucusfrom the airways and promoting airflow.
It is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that may reduce respiratory tract inflammation and combat infections.
Cardamom is also used to soothe coughs andcongestion, supporting overall lung health.
Cardamom contains compounds that reduce inflammation in the stomach and intestines, which improves digestion and eases discomfort.
It also helps balancegut bacteria, reducing bloating and gas.
Additionally, it boosts the release of digestive juices, aiding in nutrient absorption.
Cavities and Oral Health
Cardamom combatsbad breathby naturally eliminating odors, making it a common ingredient in chewing gum.
With strong antiseptic and antimicrobial effects, cardamom can help disinfect the mouth when used as a mouthwash.
This makes it an excellent, healthier alternative toadded sugarsand other calorie- and fat-dense flavorings.
Side Effects
Cardamom is generally considered safe, especially when consumed in amounts typically used in food.
In reviewing studies, very few participants report side effects or other safety concerns associated with using cardamom.
Side effects in the study includeddiarrhea, mildinflammation, and glossitis (inflammation of the tongue).
You may be more likely to experience side effects if you use cardamom in high doses.
For this reason, only use cardamom as directed.
There isn’t enough reliable information to know for certain that cardamom supplements are safe for people who arepregnantorbreastfeeding.
It’s best to be safe and avoid using cardamom supplements while pregnant or breastfeeding.
Cardamom supplements may also not be suitable for children.
Consult with a healthcare provider before giving cardamom supplements to a child.
Interactions
Herbs and supplements may interact with medications, foods, and even other supplements.
There are no documented interactions with cardamom.
However, interactions may still be possible.
Despite these seemingly successful results, much more research is needed before dosage guidelines can be drawn for cardamom.
Note that the FDA has not approved using cardamom supplements to prevent or treat any health conditions.
Many cardamom supplements are naturally vegan andgluten-free, and some options are organic.
Remember that dietary supplements are largely unregulated in the United States (U.S.).
These agencies test supplements to ensure that ingredient lists are accurate and that products are containment-free.
It’s beneficial to buy and use supplements that have undergone independent reviews.
And, its flavor blends flawlessly into teas andcoffee.
it’s possible for you to use ground cardamom or cardamom pods when cooking or baking with the spice.
Regardless of the form you choose, cardamom has a strong flavor and aroma.
Be sure to follow recipes using cardamom closely so you don’t use too much and overpower a dish.
What Are the Different Types of Cardamom?
Elettaria cardamomumis also known as green cardamom (and true cardamom) due to its green color.
Another species of cardamom isAmomum subulatum, also known as black cardamom.
Both green and black cardamom are used for food flavoring and medicinal purposes.
Cardamom does not require refrigeration.
But you should store it in an air-tight container.
Keep cardamom out of the sight and reach of pets and small children.
Similar Spices
Although cardamom has a unique flavor, other spices may work similarly in recipes.
For example, cinnamon may improve blood sugar levels for people withdiabetes.
Summary
Cardamom is an herb commonly used as a spice or sometimes as a dietary supplement.
However, quality research on cardamom is scarce, and more studies are needed.
Talk with a healthcare provider if you’re thinking of taking cardamom supplements.
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