Explore the Medicinal Properties of Cardamom

Cardamom is a spice that originates from the seed pods of various plants in the ginger family. It is known for its strong, distinct flavor and aroma. It’s commonly used in foods, but people may not realize it has health benefits. Let’s explore the medicinal properties of cardamom.

Antioxidant

Cardamom is known for its antioxidant properties, which means it helps protect the body from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals. The antioxidants in cardamom help neutralize these harmful free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and age-related conditions. By consuming cardamom regularly, you can support your body’s natural defense system and promote overall health.

Anti-Inflammatory

Cardamom contains several anti-inflammatory compounds that contribute to its potential health benefits. Some of the key anti-inflammatory compounds found in cardamom include:

1. Terpenoids: Terpenoids are a class of organic compounds found in various plants. They have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce inflammation in the body.
2. Cineole: Cineole, also known as eucalyptol, is a terpene compound found in cardamom. It exhibits anti-inflammatory effects and has been studied for its potential in reducing inflammation in conditions like asthma and rheumatoid arthritis.
3. Alpha-pinene: Alpha-pinene is another terpene compound present in cardamom. It has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties and may help alleviate inflammation in the body.
4. Linalool: Linalool is a monoterpene alcohol found in cardamom. It possesses anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it potentially beneficial for reducing inflammation and pain.

These anti-inflammatory compounds work together to help combat inflammation in the body, which can contribute to improved overall health and potentially alleviate symptoms of inflammatory conditions.

Antihypertensive

Cardamom contains certain constituents that are believed to have antihypertensive properties. These constituents include:

1. Eugenol: Eugenol is a compound found in cardamom that has been shown to possess antihypertensive effects. It helps relax and dilate blood vessels, which can lower blood pressure.
2. Terpinene: Terpinene is another compound present in cardamom that exhibits antihypertensive activity. It helps reduce blood pressure by promoting vasodilation and improving blood flow.
3. Alpha-terpineol: Alpha-terpineol is a terpene alcohol found in cardamom. It has been studied for its potential antihypertensive effects and its ability to relax blood vessels.

By incorporating cardamom into your diet, you may be able to benefit from these constituents and their antihypertensive properties. Cardamom isn’t a replacement for traditional medicine for hypertension. If you are interested in incorporating it into your diet to help with your blood pressure, seek medical advice prior to moving forward.

Cholesterol Lowering

One of the compounds in cardamom that may help lower cholesterol is terpinene. Terpinene is a natural compound found in cardamom and has been studied for its potential cholesterol-lowering effects.

As with any new supplement or herb, please consult with your physician to see what will work best for you. The information provided in this post is for educational purposes.

Resources:

Abdullah, Asghar, A., Butt, M. S., Shahid, M., & Huang, Q. (2017). Evaluating the antimicrobial potential of green cardamom essential oil focusing on quorum sensing inhibition of Chromobacterium violaceum. Journal of food science and technology, 54(8), 2306–2315. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13197-017-2668-7

Sreedharan, S., Nair, V., & Cisneros-Zevallos, L. (2023). Protective Role of Phenolic Compounds from Whole Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum (L.) Maton) against LPS-Induced Inflammation in Colon and Macrophage Cells. Nutrients, 15(13), 2965. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15132965

Verma SK, Jain V, Katewa SS. Blood pressure lowering, fibrinolysis enhancing and antioxidant activities of cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum). Indian J Biochem Biophys. 2009 Dec;46(6):503-6. PMID: 20361714.

Yahyazadeh, R., Ghasemzadeh Rahbardar, M., Razavi, B. M., Karimi, G., & Hosseinzadeh, H. (2021). The effect of Elettaria cardamomum(cardamom) on the metabolic syndrome: Narrative review. Iranian journal of basic medical sciences, 24(11), 1462–1469. https://doi.org/10.22038/IJBMS.2021.54417.12228

https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-614/cardamom

https://www.worldscientific.com/doi/10.1142/9789812837912_0003#:~:text=Cineole%2C%20the%20major%20active%20component,activity%20for%20clearing%20breathing%20passages.