Cardamom or elaichi is an intense spice that is a staple in Indian kitchens and is used extensively for enhancing flavours and taste. Even though it originated in India, cardamom is now available and used in many other cuisines today in both sweet and savory recipes. The seeds, oils, and extracts of cardamom have impressive medicinal properties and have been used in traditional medicine for centuries.

Packed with vitamin C, magnesium, potassium, riboflavin, and niacin, cardamom is a low-calorie spice with immense health benefits. A few of these include:

Cardamom is rich in compounds that help fight cancer cells. According to animal studies, cardamom powder increases the activity of certain enzymes that help fight against cancer. It also can enhance the strength of killer cells to attack tumours. Research on human cancer cells and cardamom indicates similar results.

Cardamom is loaded with compounds that help fight inflammation which is the root cause of various life-threatening diseases. Experts say inflammation occurs when your body is exposed to foreign substances, so, cardamom protects your cells from damage.

According to studies, cardamom extract in doses of 50–100 mg per kg of body weight is highly effective in inhibiting at least four different inflammatory compounds in rats.

Cardamom is also extremely beneficial for those having high blood pressure levels or hypertension. In a study, three grams of cardamom powder a day was given to 20 adults who were just diagnosed with high blood pressure. After 12 weeks, blood pressure levels had significantly decreased to the normal range.

Doctors say high levels of antioxidants in cardamom help lower blood pressure, along with providing a diuretic effect.

For centuries, cardamom has been used to take care of digestion and related issues. The spice provides instant relief from stomach discomfort, nausea, and vomiting. It also helps heal painful ulcers. According to studies, cardamom extract prevents or reduces the size of gastric ulcers by at least 50 per cent. Test-tube research also suggests that cardamom can protect against Helicobacter pylori - a bacteria linked to the development of most stomach ulcer issues.

Cardamom significantly helps improve breathing and airflow to your lungs, especially in those suffering from asthma. It is extensively also used in alternate medicines and techniques like aromatherapy – as it has an invigorating odour that enhances your body’s ability to use oxygen during exercise.

Cardamom is also helpful for treating asthma, as it helps relax your throat air passage, and suppresses inflamed airways.

According to doctors, people with gallstones should not take cardamom except to flavour food. However, more research is also needed to determine the effects of large amounts of cardamom on women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Talk to your doctor if you're considering taking cardamom as a supplement.