Luxury seasoning: where to add cardamom to make it worth its price?

Characteristic

Cardamom belongs to the herbaceous plant species Eletaria cardamomum. It grows wild in forest areas in southern India. The spice ranks second in the Indian market in terms of sales, second only to black pepper. Malabar cardamom with small fruits and Mysore cardamom with larger fruits are highly valued in the world. Researchers believe that Arab merchants introduced the ancient Greeks and Romans to this “queen of spices.” Even in the works of Dioscorides and Pliny there are references to this spice as an expensive and delicate spice with enormous healing power.

The spice fruits are capsules with three compartments that are harvested when barely ripe. They are dried in the sun, ground and used for treatment and cooking. Green boxes are popular in India, and specially bleached boxes are popular in northern Europe, where it is unpopular to use bright spices. The grains are bleached with sulfur dioxide, which gives the spice a sweetish note and dulls its heat. It is worth noting that in Europe the spice is most preferred by the Scandinavians. In these countries with cold climates, cardamom is added to sausages, meat and fish dishes, fish marinades, liqueurs, hot soup and punch [1]. Natural green seeds of the plant are very popular in eastern countries, where they are used to prepare various dishes. "Black cardamom" from the Ginger family (tree of the genus Atotite) is a brown capsule with black seeds. Their size is 2-5 cm. The fruits grow in Nepal, Northern Vietnam and China. In India, black spice is added to simple spicy dishes, considering only green cardamom as a great heritage of ancient cuisine.

The plant can be grown from seeds, but propagation is best done by shoots of rhizomes. It begins to bear fruit in the third year of life. Approximately up to 100 kilograms of fruit are obtained from one hectare. The harvest can be harvested for about 10 years. The plant does not tolerate winter temperatures below freezing. It can be grown in greenhouses, winter gardens or homes.

Existing types of cardamom

Its high prevalence in a number of hot countries allows people to obtain cardamom of various types. Let's look at the most popular and used types. True, or cardamom, which was originally discovered. This is where the fame of this spice came from; it is highly valued in India.

• Green cardamom is the most common and is most often used in preparing various dishes.
• Black cardamom is actually the rarest species, as it can only grow in some countries.
• White cardamom, the exact opposite of black, has a sweetish taste and is used in confectionery.

Round, almost the same in popularity as green. It is also often used in preparing various dishes.

Chemical composition and nutritional value

The seeds of the plant contain 3-8% essential oil containing fatty oil, cineole, protein, terpineol and terpinyl acetate [2].
The seeds also contain dietary fiber, vitamins, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, manganese and zinc. The energy value of the spice is 311 kcal per 100 grams. Nutritional value per 100 grams (approximately) [3]

Brief characteristics of the spice

The cardamom plant is familiar to everyone who loves spices and uses them in cooking. This is an aromatic spice that has a bright taste and aroma, with characteristic notes of camphor, ginger and mint. The fruits have the shape of a ribbed triangular pod. Inside the pod are several seeds, in which all the flavoring and aromatic substances are concentrated. There are two types of plants:

• green (white), most famous in European countries, a universal spice;
• black (brown), traditionally used in Eastern culture as a seasoning for meat dishes, soups and broths.

The green variety has small dense pods, 1-2 cm long. The seeds of this variety have a high concentration of essential oils, so it tends to suppress the aroma of accompanying spices. Brown cardamom pods are large (up to 3.5 cm), covered with fibers and have a smoky flavor. The piquant taste appears during the drying process over an open fire. Black cardamom brings out the flavor of other spices and has a spicier taste.

INTERESTING! Cardamom has been called the “queen of spices” due to its high cost and rich taste.

This herbaceous shrub comes from India, but has become widespread due to its properties. Now it is growing in South America, Africa, China, and the Middle East. The popularity of this plant is well deserved - this spice is a valuable natural source of nutrients.

Content of active substances

Cardamom is used for food and medicinal purposes due to its taste and therapeutic qualities. The following substances are concentrated in white cardamom seeds:

• vitamins (B1, 2, 3), ascorbic acid;
• micro and macroelements (calcium, phosphorus, zinc, magnesium, iron);
• essential oils;
• flavonoids.

Cardamom is especially valuable due to its essential oil content. Its concentration in seeds is 3-8% of the total mass of the seed. The oil consists of terpineol, cineole and terpinyl acetate, which are used in the treatment of a number of diseases and are included in some pharmaceutical medicines.

Beneficial features

Most spices of oriental origin, including cardamom, have been used by oriental healers since ancient times to treat various diseases [4]. The seeds of this plant have always been known for their medicinal and aromatic properties. Today it is known and scientifically proven that the substances contained in the spice can stimulate appetite, restore favorable microflora in the body and improve digestive processes [5].

In modern medicine, the spice is used to lower body temperature as an antiseptic, for bronchitis, pneumonia and laryngitis [6].

The spice contains vitamins:

• B1, which is part of the enzymes of carbohydrate and energy metabolism for the proper functioning of the nervous, digestive and cardiovascular systems;
• B6, which is involved in the system of inhibition and excitation of the central nervous system, in the metabolism and transformation of amino acids to stimulate appetite, ensures normal skin condition and prevents anemia;
• , which acts as an antioxidant [7];
• C, involved in redox processes, iron absorption and the functioning of the immune system [8].

Spice grains have a tonic effect. Ancient Ayurvedic literature says that cardamom gives a feeling of calm and tranquility, gives clarity and activity of the mind [9].

The essential oil of the seeds is useful for stomach colic and vomiting. Tea made from ground cardamom, ginger and cloves eliminates indigestion and stimulates bowel function. It is also useful to use it before the onset of “women’s days” to relieve pain and discomfort. In addition, spice essential oil eliminates headaches, apathy, depression and fears. A drink made from a mixture of cardamom, cumin and coriander will help relieve the feeling of heaviness in the body. It helps with cough, asthma and bronchitis.

Cardamom stimulates metabolism in the body, the production of gastric juice and removes toxic substances and waste. The spice helps with constipation (used in complex treatment). The grains of the plant perfectly freshen breath and eliminate inflammatory processes in the mouth [10]. The spice helps with insomnia.

Cardamom has a stimulating effect. It was used in the ancient art of love as an aphrodisiac. The smell of grains attracts partners to each other and increases sexual desire.

The spice has powerful antioxidant properties and prevents aging of the body [11]. The spice also breaks down fats and promotes weight loss [12].

In general, the main medicinal purposes for which cardamom can be used are as follows:

• antiseptic for colds and viral infections [13];
• cough expectorant;
• diuretic;
• with high blood cholesterol levels [14];
• with flatulence;
• with vomiting and nausea;
• for insomnia and depression;
• in case of heart rhythm disturbances;
• for fatigue and low blood pressure;
• with a disrupted menstrual cycle;
• for intestinal disorders.

Why is it useful - 8 facts

Below are 8 main facts about the benefits of cardamom based on scientific sources of information.

Reduces blood pressure

Cardamom is one of the most effective spices for the treatment and prevention of hypertension.

Research by Indian scientists shows that taking 3 grams of cardamom powder per day for 3 months leads to complete correction of blood pressure in grade I arterial hypertension.

The hypotensive effect of the plant is associated with the abundance of antioxidants in the composition, which block angiotensin II.

According to experiments on rats, the plant also has a diuretic effect, which further reduces blood pressure levels.

The seasoning also blocks the formation of thrombi (blood clots) in the lumen of blood vessels and indirectly reduces the risk of stroke and myocardial infarction.

Cardamom is recommended for all people suffering from hypertension to improve their general condition and prevent complications.

Cardamom lowers blood pressure due to its effect on filtration capacity and the RAAS.

Reduces the risk of developing cancer

Animal studies demonstrate the ability of cardamom powder to activate the production of enzymes that destroy malignant cells in the body.

An equally important role is given to the healing plant for its ability to block free radicals that can cause damage and cancerous degeneration of cells.

Some scientific works emphasize the increased activity of killer T cells, which are responsible for recognizing and destroying foreign cells.

Experts from India gave mice 0.5 grams of cardamom powder for 12 weeks and simultaneously exposed their bodies to carcinogenic chemicals. In group II (control), rodents did not receive cardamom. As a result, in group I, malignant processes were observed in 29% of cases, while in group II – in 90% of cases.

Studies on human cells in the laboratory show similar results. During the experiment, the growth of cancer cells stopped.

Cardamom contains plant compounds that can prevent the development of cancer and also stop the growth of malignant cells.

Protects against chronic diseases

Cardamom has a powerful anti-inflammatory effect, inhibiting chronic inflammation. It is the provoking risk factor for the development of most chronic diseases.

When taking the spice in the blood, the level of some key markers of the inflammatory response (cyclooxygenase-2, interleukin-2 and 6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha) decreases. Experts from India came to similar conclusions.

Researchers at the North-South University (Bangladesh) found that taking cardamom powder reduced the activity of inflammation in the liver, caused by the abundance of fats and carbohydrates in the diet.

Against the background of suppression of chronic inflammation, prerequisites are not created for the development of such abnormalities as type II diabetes mellitus, atherosclerosis, etc.

Cardamom creates powerful protection against chronic inflammation, reducing the risk of developing chronic diseases.

Improves digestive health

Cardamom has been used for thousands of years to correct problems with the gastrointestinal tract.

According to Indonesian scientists, the use of cardamom, turmeric and sembung leaves in combination or separately can prevent the development of erosive or ulcerative defects while taking aspirin (used to prevent thromboembolic complications).

Indian experts suggest that cardamom extract is an effective anti-ulcer agent. At a dosage of 12.5 mg per 1 kg of weight, it reduces the size of ulcers by at least 50%.

Separately, it should be noted the ability of the seasoning to destroy the bacterium Helicobacter pylori. It is responsible for the development of gastritis (inflammation of the stomach) in 99% of cases.

Cardamom is able to protect the mucous membranes of the stomach and duodenum from damage.

Improves oral health

The seasoning has now been proven effective in eliminating bad breath.

Cardamom destroys pathogenic flora, which freshens breath and significantly reduces the risk of developing infectious and inflammatory processes in the oral cavity.

Scientists have found that the product inhibits the growth and reproduction of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida fungi, and Staphylococcus aureus.

The benefits of the plant for a healthy smile are also invaluable. Cardamom prevents the appearance of carious processes.

Cardamom is an indispensable remedy for maintaining oral health and eliminating unpleasant odor.

Fights infectious and inflammatory diseases

Cardamom extract and essential oil, according to numerous studies, cause the death of pathogenic microorganisms not only in the oral cavity, but also in all tissues of the body.

For example, Indian experts have proven the spice’s ability to cause the death of spore-forming bacteria, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus.

Australian experts have established the effectiveness of the plant against salmonella, the most common causative agent of acute intestinal infections.

Cardamom can be used for the prevention and treatment (together with medications) of any infectious and inflammatory processes in the human body.

Increases oxygen saturation of cells

The use of cardamom as an aromatherapy agent increases the flow of air into the alveoli (by improving the functioning of the respiratory muscles), which increases the concentration of oxygen in the blood.

Against this background, oxygen saturation of tissues increases, which has a positive effect on the overall tone of the body and increases the tolerance of any physical exercise.

Cardamom has a calming effect on the bronchial mucosa - it reduces swelling and spasm, and slows down the secretion of mucus. Such properties make it possible to use the plant to relieve bronchial asthma and prevent attacks of this disease.

Cardamom saturates cells with oxygen, which is especially important during periods of active physical training or in the presence of bronchial asthma.

Reduces blood sugar levels

Cardamom powder may improve or prevent the development of type II diabetes.

The plant slows down the absorption of carbohydrates from the lumen of the digestive tube, which prevents sudden surges in blood sugar after eating food.

Indian experts have discovered the ability of cardamom (as well as black tea and ginger) to reduce the resistance of peripheral tissues (fat and muscle) to insulin. As a result, glucose begins to be utilized more efficiently by cells, and its level in the blood decreases.

The spice does not interfere with the hormonal mechanisms regulating carbohydrate metabolism and is equally effective in the bodies of men and women.

Cardamom is recommended for use by all people suffering from type II diabetes mellitus, as well as people predisposed to this pathology.

Cardamom alleviates type II diabetes mellitus by reducing blood glucose levels.

Contraindications and side effects

The spice is contraindicated for people suffering from acute gastritis and peptic ulcers of the stomach and duodenum. It is also not recommended to use the spice for pregnant women, nursing mothers and children under 12 years of age.

Cardamom can cause an allergic reaction, so before eating it, you need to check whether it will cause individual intolerance.

Excessive consumption of the spice can lead to diarrhea and dehydration.

Harm and contraindications

Does cardamom have any contraindications? Like any spice with a strong aroma and essential oils in its composition - yes. It can cause allergies if you are hypersensitive. And if you abuse these fragrant grains, you can get headaches, nausea, and heartburn.

Important! Pregnant women should use cardamom with extreme caution. The effect of the spice on the body of the expectant mother and the fetus has not yet been fully studied. That is why it is better to limit the use of spices during pregnancy.

That is why it is better to limit the use of spices during pregnancy.

Selection rules and storage conditions

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When purchasing, you need to choose cardamom beans in boxes [15]. Ground spice quickly loses its essential oils. If necessary, it is best to grind the required amount of beans in a coffee grinder. Natural cardamom should be a pleasant light green color.

It is best to store spice beans in an airtight glass jar with a tight lid or a ceramic container. The spice should be kept in a dry place at room temperature. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight, moisture or air.

Cardamom: What are the health benefits?

Cardamom
Cardamom, like any other natural spices and seasonings, has health benefits:

• The spice boosts the immune system.
• Contains vitamins of the group: A, B, C, E and PP .
• Micro and macroelements: iron, phosphorus, calcium, potassium, copper, zinc and magnesium .

All this is necessary for the normal functioning of the body, especially a weakened one. In addition, cardamom has the following properties:

• Antimicrobial
• Painkillers
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antibacterial

This seasoning helps with the functioning of the whole body:

• Calms nerves, improves mood and regulates sleep.
• Helps the functioning of the heart and strengthens blood vessels, improving their elasticity.
• Aligns blood sugar levels.
• Helps digestion and improves gallbladder function.
• It perfectly cleanses the body of toxins and actively burns fat, which is why overweight people include it in their diet.
• Allows you to relax and calm your nerves.
• It copes well with neuroses and depression.

Adding it, for example, to mulled wine, will warm the body from the inside and relieve daytime stress.

Treatment

To treat intestinal disorders, use the following recipe: mix a piece of grated ginger, 2-3 ground cardamom seeds and a glass of hot water, bring to a boil and leave for a few minutes. Drink warm instead of tea.

To get rid of nausea, you just need to chew 2-3 grains of the spice.

To strengthen the immune system, use 3-4 ground spice seeds and a teaspoon of honey. The resulting mixture is taken once in the morning after waking up.

To lose weight, brew green tea and add a quarter spoon of ground spice with a few drops of lemon juice. As an adjuvant, it is taken once a day in the morning.

To cleanse the body of toxins and toxins, pour one teaspoon of ground spice into one glass of boiling water and drink a quarter glass hot once a day.

In order to get rid of diarrhea, mix the seeds of ground cardamom, fennel and dill in equal parts. One teaspoon of the resulting mixture is poured into a glass of boiling water and left to infuse. Drink a tablespoon, gradually increasing the intake to a quarter glass.

For constipation, add cardamom to foods containing fiber and drink tea with added spices and ginger.

During insomnia, pour one teaspoon of ground cardamom into a glass of water, bring to a boil and drink a quarter glass.

To get rid of pharyngitis, dry throat and hoarseness, pour 0.5 teaspoon of crushed seeds into a glass of boiling water and, after steeping for an hour, gargle several times a day.

For impotence, take 1 teaspoon of honey, a pinch of cardamom and pour a glass of boiled milk. Take 1 glass in the evening.

To improve vision, take 4-5 ground seeds and mix with a teaspoon of honey. Take once a day.

For weight loss, add ¼ teaspoon of cardamom to coffee or tea. For better results, it is recommended to add cardamom, cinnamon and red pepper to your dishes. The combination of these three spices stimulates metabolism, and cinnamon regulates glucose levels.

In aromatherapy, cardamom is used for colds, emotional exhaustion, and headaches. To do this, just apply a couple of drops to the aroma lamp and inhale for about 15 minutes.

For massage, the oil is used in combination with grape, linseed, and olive oils. To do this, add 3-4 drops of cardamom essential oil to 1 tablespoon of base oil.

To improve the condition of problem skin, 4-5 drops of essential oil are added when taking a bath.

Methods of application

Cardamom is widely used in cooking, as well as for medicinal purposes in folk and evidence-based medicine.

To protect yourself from risks, it is not recommended to consume more than ¼ tsp at a time. chopped plant.

Let's look at the basic spice-based recipes:

1. Tea. For cooking you will need 1 tsp. black tea, ½ tsp. ground or whole cardamom and 400 ml of water. Boil water, add tea and spices, let steep for about 30 minutes. Take 200 ml 2 times a day.
2. Tincture. Required: 1 tsp. cardamom seeds, 2 tsp. sugar and 500 ml of vodka or medical alcohol. It is recommended to grind the seeds in a coffee grinder before preparing the tincture. Then mix them together with sugar and vodka in a glass container and close the lid tightly. Place in a cool, dark place for 14 days. Take 50 ml in the first half of the day (not recommended on an empty stomach).
3. Cardamom milk. Heat 200 ml of milk to 60-70 degrees, add ¼ tsp. spice powder, leave for 3-5 minutes. Take 200 ml once a day (preferably 2-3 hours before bedtime).
4. Infusion for weight loss. It will take 1 tsp. whole cardamom grains, 250 ml water. Boil water, add spice, let it brew for 20-30 minutes. Strain. For weight loss, you should consume 75-100 ml up to 3-4 times a day (for 2 weeks).
5. Coffee. Grind 1-2 tsp. coffee beans and 1 tsp. cardamom fruit. Pour boiling water (200 ml), let it brew for 5-10 minutes, strain. Take 150-200 ml 1 time per day in the morning. This drink will not only improve your health, but also give you a boost of energy for the whole day.

You can prepare a lot of healing recipes based on cardamom. The main thing is to carefully follow the technology.

Cooking recipes

The uses of cardamom as a seasoning are varied. In Germany, cardamom is traditionally added to Christmas baked goods, in Scandinavia - to meat pates, sausages and punches, in Russia - to baking dough and Easter cakes. Arabs add spice to coffee. In the East, it is believed that coffee with cardamom is an indispensable attribute of hospitality.

Bedouin coffee

A quarter teaspoon of spice is added to a cup of coffee. If the coffee is brewed, then you need to mix it with ground cardamom and brew it. If the coffee is instant, then you need to add a little spice to it and pour boiling water over it.

The spice adds piquancy to the drink and neutralizes the toxicity of caffeine, which reduces the risk of high blood pressure.

Cardamom tea

Three grains of spice are poured into 0.5 liters of boiling water and left for several minutes. The resulting tincture is added to green or black tea.

Rice with cardamom

Rinse 1 cup of rice and let dry slightly. Grind 4 spice pods. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil, add turmeric and a pinch of salt. Heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or saucepan and add cinnamon and cardamom. Then add the drained rice and fry for a few minutes. After this, pour in boiling water, bring to a boil and cook covered for 20 minutes. When the rice has absorbed all the water, the dish can be considered cooked. The number of servings received is 4.

Milk sweet rice

To prepare the dish, you will need a container with a heavy bottom, into which you need to pour 4 glasses of milk and add 3 tablespoons of washed rice. Mix the ingredients and bring to a boil, and cook until half the contents have evaporated. Then you need to add 1 teaspoon of freshly ground spice grains and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Boil for 5 minutes, remove from heat and cool. The prepared dish can be sprinkled with chopped pistachios, almonds or peanuts.

Sources

1. Popular science magazine "Chemistry and Life". - Cardamom.
2. US National library of medicine. – Chemical and biological evaluation of essential oils from cardamom species.
3. US Department of Agriculture. - Spices, cardamom.
4. Internet resource ScienceDirect. – Cardamom.
5. US National library of medicine. – Gastroprotective effects of combination of hot water extracts of turmeric (Curcuma domestica L.), cardamom pods (Ammomum compactum S.) and sembung leaf (Blumea balsamifera DC.) against aspirin-induced gastric ulcer model in rats.
6. Medical portal Medical News Today. – What are the health benefits of cardamom?
7. Social network for scientists ResearchGate. – Blood pressure lowering, fibrinolysis enhancing and antioxidant activities of Cardamom.
8. US National library of medicine. – Chemopreventive effects of cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum L.) on chemically induced skin carcinogenesis in Swiss albino mice.
9. US National library of medicine. – The effect of Elettaria cardamomum extract on anxiety-like behavior in a rat model of post-traumatic stress disorder.
10. Social network for scientists ResearchGate. – Antimicrobial activity of Amomum subulatum and Elettaria cardamomum against dental caries causing microorganisms.
11. Internet resource ScienceDirect. – Anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects of Cardamom (Elettaria repens (Sonn.) Baill) and its phytochemical analysis by 4D GCXGC TOF-MS.
12. Global Publisher BioMedCentral. – Green cardamom increases Sirtuin-1 and reduces inflammation in overweight or obese patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
13. Open Science Platform “Frontiers in microbiology”. – Encapsulation of cardamom essential oil in chitosan Nano-composites: In-vitro efficacy on antibiotic-resistant bacterial pathogens and cytotoxicity studies.
14. Wiley online library. – Anti-hypercholesterolemic influence of the spice cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) in experimental rats.
15. Electronic fund of legal and regulatory technical documentation. – Interstate standard (GOST): Spices. Cardamom.

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Cardamom seasoning – where to add and how much?

In the East, the spice is used everywhere. It is an invariable component of many mixtures, an integral part of the popular Indian Masala tea and Arabic coffee, known as Bedouin. When heated, the aroma does not disappear. The seasoning is added to hot dishes, baked goods, sauces, and drinks.

Manufacturers in Guatemala produce cardamom-flavored chewing gum.

In Russia, the spice has been known since the 16th-17th centuries. It was supplied by merchants from Persia. The path followed the Volga through the Caspian Sea. Cardamom was added to shortbreads, gingerbreads and Tula gingerbreads. Together with star anise, it was an invariable component of Guryev porridge, a legendary dish of Russian noble cuisine. Today, the spice is added to legume soups, rice, potatoes, and vegetables.

Cardamom is an important ingredient in liqueurs, liqueurs and other alcoholic beverages. It effectively eliminates the smell of alcohol.

The essential oil is well known in aromatherapy and oriental medicine. It can be found in cosmetic products from well-known companies. This is an ingredient in masks, scrubs, creams.

When used for culinary purposes, it is important to observe moderation. Too much spice can completely ruin a dish. Before use, the husks are peeled, and small fruits are ground or ground in a mortar. You can put it whole, but the aroma will be weaker.

Seeds from one “pod” are enough for 1 kg of dough or minced meat. For drinks, the dose is halved. Whole grains are added 5 minutes before cooking. Powder - before removing from heat.

Tea with cardamom, cinnamon and lemon zest

This is a refreshing drink with an extraordinary aroma. It is used to increase mental abilities and strengthen the immune system. It helps to calm down no worse than mint or linden blossom.

After a heavy lunch, it helps digestion, and when drunk before bed, it promotes proper rest. Tea relieves toothache and headache, treats cough. And it is also very tasty!

Prepare tea like this:

• Cardamom seeds (3-4 pieces) are ground to a powder.
• The teapot is rinsed with boiling water.
• Place 1 tsp inside. black or green tea, 0.5 tablespoons of cinnamon, plus ladles of lemon zest.
• Pour hot boiled water (300-400 ml), cover, leave for 4-5 minutes.
• Do not pour cups to the top.
• Add 5 g of natural honey and 30 ml of cream for each serving.

When using pods, the consumption is higher. The same amount of water will require 3-4 green “boxes”. Tea invigorates no worse than ginger. The maximum single serving is 250 ml or an average cup.

Seasoning, spice cardamom - benefits and harm: application

Seasoning, cardamom spice
Cardamom spice is a long-known seasoning with its pungent taste and strong aroma, which is used in cooking. It is added not only to baked goods, but also to hot dishes, various drinks, side dishes and soups. In terms of its taste, it is the queen of all seasonings, since it can alone replace many other types. It is especially good to add spices to hot dishes.

In addition to helping digest food, it allows for better absorption of vitamins and nutrients. Due to the presence of a whole flavor bouquet, it is enough to use only one cardamom in the kitchen. When using the seasoning as a spice for dishes, you should take into account its sharp, specific smell and pungent, burning taste.

Remember: It is worth adding cardamom to dishes in small quantities, acting on the principle: it is better not to add than to add, otherwise there will be little benefit, but only harm.

Role in cooking

Cardamom is used to season salads and main courses: meat and fish. This is a common component of Asian pilaf and many soups. In industry, cardamom is included in sausages and minced meat.

Commonly used to flavor sweet dishes. The powder is good in baked goods, fruit salads, curd desserts, and puddings. But the most common addition of spices to drinks is tea, coffee.

Preparing drinks

There are many recipes for drinks with cardamom - the quantity and set of spices vary. Two methods of preparation are considered basic.

1. Coffee. Gourmets add cardamom to coffee to create an aromatic, healthy and unusual drink. Take two cardamom pods for a glass of water. They are added before brewing or to ready-made hot coffee. In addition to the spicy aroma, this drink has beneficial properties - it calms, neutralizes the negative effects of caffeine, and improves mood.
2. Tea. Brewing tea with cardamom is recommended for anyone who wants to improve their health and memory. The drink tones up during increased mental stress and increases performance. Tea is brewed in any way, two crushed seed pods are added to it. Add honey or milk if desired.

There are benefits to using cardamom even if it is just to flavor everyday food. The spice will give dishes a unique aroma, enrich the body with useful substances, and protect against diseases.

Medicinal properties

Ground cardamom has been used in medicine for a long time.

In the east, it is believed that it removes mucus from the body, that is, if your bronchi are clogged, if you have a runny nose, then with the help of cardamom you can clear the upper and lower respiratory tract from this mucus.

It has a very beneficial effect on the digestive system, soothes the intestines, helps absorb all nutrients from food, and is also indispensable for the heart muscle.

Ground cardamom is a pronounced tonic. If you feel a loss of energy, then a small amount of spice added to tea will help you cheer up.

In the autumn-winter period, and in the spring too, it is very good to drink tea with spices, because (as we have already said) it also has an anti-inflammatory effect.

Application in cosmetology

Cardamom essential oil is mainly used for skin and hair care. It has more pronounced properties and is easy to use. Five properties are most valued.

1. Improves complexion. The spice lightens the skin a little and makes it healthier.
2. Takes care of lips. Has a pronounced moisturizing effect. A few drops of oil are added to any lip balm.
3. Flavors. They are often added to cosmetics, perfumes, and creams to give them a subtle aroma and additional benefits.
4. Relieves inflammation. The oil has proven itself to be a good antibacterial agent for problem skin.
5. Strengthens hair. Nourishes the skin, strengthens hair follicles, adds shine.

Examples of using masks

Before the first use, a test is carried out for the presence of an allergic reaction. Apply a drop of oil to the back of the wrist or the bend of the elbow, rub, and observe the reaction. If there is no irritation or redness, the oil can be applied. Below are three examples of using spices at home for beautiful skin and hair.

1. For face. Mix milk, honey and a little sea salt. Add three to four drops of essential oil. Keep on face for up to 20 minutes.
2. For hands. Add a few drops of oil to any hand cream. In the evening, apply to the skin with light massaging movements, put on cotton gloves, and leave overnight.
3. For hair. Apply a few drops of cardamom essential oil to a fine-toothed comb. Comb the strands and do not wash them off. They do this twice a week. Hair gradually acquires shine and silkiness.

Women leave reviews that with regular use of cardamom oil, hair begins to grow faster and stops falling out. Dandruff disappears. A pleasant aroma improves mood and promotes restful sleep.

What are the benefits of cardamom for women?

We have already talked about the benefits of the spice for the body as a whole, and now we will answer the question of how cardamom is useful for women. The spice helps to get rid of excess weight and reduce pain during PMS. It is also an aphrodosiac, therefore it increases libido, enhances libido and makes a woman more sexually attractive.

How should a woman use ground cardamom? To do this, you can make tea and add to it:

• cardamom;
• vanilla;
• ginger;
• lemon balm.

How to brew cardamom into tea? Very simple. You just need to mix all the ingredients in equal quantities and add hot water, let it brew for 15-20 minutes. Ready. By drinking this drink every day, you can notice improvements in your appearance within a short time.

You can also add cardamom seeds to cosmetic products. Thereby:

• the skin becomes younger;
• small wrinkles are smoothed out;
• collagen is actively produced;
• hair follicles are revitalized;
• hair roots and strands become healthier and begin to grow faster.

By the way, cardamom is believed to help get pregnant. Of course, it is not a magic remedy that promotes rapid conception. But since spice improves immunity and eliminates many diseases, this increases the chances of getting pregnant.