CARDAMOM
Cardamom is one of the most ancient spices and it is the most expensive spice that comes after saffron and vanilla. People are using cardamom for many decades in cooking as well as in the form of medicine.
Cardamom flavor is the seeds of plants that belong to the ginger family. It has a pungent flavor and aromatic smell that adds to the deliciousness of different types of cuisines. It can be used to enhance the flavor of both sweet and salty dishes.
CULTIVATION AND PROCESSING OF CARDAMOM
Probably, it was originated in India, but now it available and used worldwide. It can be cultivated from wild plants that grow in tropical forests. However, cardamom is a native of tropical and sub-tropical regions, but it is mostly cultivated in India, Sri Lanka, Guatemala, Malaysia & Tanzania.
TYPES OF CARDAMOM
Green Cardamom: Green Cardamom has a sweet and aromatic flavor, which is why it is used in many Indian cuisines like biryani, kheer, and different types of curries.
Black Cardamom: Black cardamom is large and longer in size, it is rarely used in desserts because of its less flavor, but it is equally beneficial when used as a medicine.
OTHER NAMES OF CARDAMOM
- Popularly known as ‘Elaichi’ in India.
- Elam in Tamil.
- Cardamom in French.
- Cardamom in German.
- Cardamomo in Italian & Spanish.
- Kapulaga in Indonasia.
USES & BENEFITS OF CARDAMOM
Along with its flavor and taste, it is also known for its numerous health benefits and medical properties.
The essential oils available in the cardamom seeds are rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants are associated with low blood pressure. Hence, it can be concluded that cardamom is helpful for people having the problem of high blood pressure.
It has some antibacterial properties that help fight, many types of bacteria and fungi. Antibacterial properties of cardamom prevent any type of microbial activities in the internal system.
Improves Digestion
Cardamom stimulates the metabolism of the body which in turn is very helpful in the proper digestion and functioning of the body. In ancient times, cardamom was used as a digestive to relieve stomach-related issues like nausea, vomiting, gastric, etc.
Prevents Bad Breath
it can fight with common mouth bacteria, as a result, it is very helpful in providing fresh breath and it also prevents cavities. It is very effective for oral health.
Helpful for Diabetic Patients
Cardamom intake improves the insulin level in the blood, as a result, it helps lower the blood sugar levels of a diabetic patient.
Nutritional values
Cardamom is a rich source of various vitamins like riboflavin, niacin & vitamin C, and minerals like potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Apart from this, it is also an excellent source of iron which is required by the red blood cells. It also contains fibers with very low levels of carbohydrates and calories.
- calories: 18
- total fat: 0.4 grams (g)
- carbohydrates: 4.0 g
- fiber: 1.6 g
- protein: 0.6 g
- potassium: 64.9 milligrams (mg)
- calcium: 22.2 mg
- iron: 0.81 mg
- magnesium: 13.3 mg
- phosphorus: 10.3 mg
