Cardamom: the Spice to Get Rid of Bad Breath

Cardamom boasts an array of health benefits, thanks to its rich content of powerful phytonutrients. It is particularly abundant in manganese, which is essential for forming connective tissue, bones, and sex hormones. Manganese also supports nerve and brain function, carbohydrate and fat metabolism, calcium absorption, and blood sugar regulation.

Beyond these uses, there are numerous ways to incorporate cardamom into one’s daily routine to harness its medicinal properties.

What Is Cardamom?
Cardamom encompasses herbs from the Elettaria (green) and Amomum (black) genera within the ginger family. Originating from the moist forests of southern India, cardamom is predominantly cultivated in India, Sri Lanka, and Guatemala. As of the early 21st century, Guatemala has taken the lead as the world’s top producer, with India following closely behind.

This spice is a key ingredient in South Asian curries and Scandinavian pastries, and its name sometimes refers to similar spices from the ginger family used in African and Asian cuisines.

Cardamom’s flavor is a unique blend of citrus, warmth, and floral notes, while its aroma combines nutty, spicy, citrusy, and sweet elements. The essential oil from cardamom seeds, rich in cineole and α-terpinyl acetate, is utilized in pharmaceuticals, perfumes, soaps, detergents, and body care products.

Types
There are three main varieties of cardamom: green, Madagascar, and black. Green cardamom is most commonly used in recipes, known for its strong, sweet, and floral flavor. The pods, which house the prized seeds, are harvested when three-quarters ripe and are dried in a manner that determines their final color. Despite its high cost, stemming from labor-intensive hand harvesting, a small amount goes a long way in recipes.

Whole vs. Ground
Cardamom is available in pre-ground form or as whole pods. Whole pods, when ground at home, retain more essential oils and provide a more robust flavor than pre-ground cardamom.

Nutrition Facts
A tablespoon of ground cardamom contains approximately:
– 18 calories
– 4 grams of carbohydrates
– 0.6 gram of protein
– 0.4 gram of fat
– 1.6 grams of fiber
– 1.6 milligrams of manganese (80 percent DV)
– 0.8 milligrams of iron (4.4 percent DV)
– 13 milligrams of magnesium (3.3 percent DV)
– 0.4 milligrams of zinc (2.7 percent DV)
– 22 milligrams of calcium (2.2 percent DV)
– 65 milligrams of potassium (1.9 percent DV)
– 10 milligrams of phosphorus (1 percent DV)

Health Benefits
Cardamom has been linked to several health benefits, including improving bad breath, treating cavities, and aiding in cancer treatment. Its antimicrobial properties can combat oral bacteria, and its active component, cineole, is an effective antiseptic. The spice may also help lower blood pressure, support diabetes management, and promote digestive health. Moreover, it has been found to provide asthma relief.

Cardamom vs. Coriander
While cardamom and coriander share many health benefits, such as aiding in the management of diabetes, high blood pressure, and digestive issues, they also have distinct differences. Cardamom, from the ginger family, is considered a warming spice in Ayurveda and is primarily produced in Guatemala. Coriander, derived from the cilantro plant, is a cooling spice in Ayurveda and is mainly produced in India.

Where to Buy Cardamom
Ground cardamom is widely available, but whole pods are recommended for fresher, more potent flavor. When substituting cardamom, coriander, ginger, nutmeg, and cinnamon can be used, though they will not perfectly replicate its unique taste.

How to Use and Store It
Cardamom pairs well with flavors like cinnamon, vanilla, almond, and rose, and can be used in a variety of dishes, from savory stews to sweet desserts. It is best stored in pod form for up to a year and ground as needed.

Risks and Side Effects
Cardamom is generally safe when consumed in normal food amounts. However, it should be avoided by individuals with gallstones and used with caution by pregnant or nursing women and those with medical conditions or on medication.

Final Thoughts
Cardamom, the “queen of spices,” is not only a culinary delight but also a source of numerous health benefits. Rich in manganese and other essential nutrients, it contributes to heart and kidney health, oral hygiene, and the treatment of diabetes, cancer, and asthma.