Cardamom

Cardamom


Cardamom known as the "queen of spices" is made from the seed pods of various plants in the ginger family. Cardamom pods are spindle-shaped and have a triangular cross-section.

The pods contain a number of seeds, but the entire cardamom pod can be used whole or ground. The seeds are small and black, while the pods differ in color and size by species.

There are two main types of cardamom: black cardamom and green cardamom, and there is also white cardamom which is a bleached version of green cardamom.

Keypoints


  • Grown in up country wet and intermediate zones of Sri Lanka, greenish, unopened, three-sided, oval shaped, dried fruit has long been known as the queen of spices for its numerous health benefits.
  • Ceylon cardamom is highly fragrant and tastes minty, spicy and citrusy than the other cardamom.
  • Ceylon cardamom has rich anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-carcinogenic and antimicrobial properties, which provides a range of benefits.Hence it holds a high price and a demand in world markets.
  • Ceylon Cardamom is available in various forms in the global market;

    • The whole Cardamom is the whole pod.
    • Ground cardamom is the cardamom powder.
    • Cardamom oil is the essential oil derived from cardamom pods through steam distillation.
  • Three types of Cardamom are found in Sri Lanka and they are categorized based on the shape of the inflorescence.

    Malabar – Inflorescence is prostrate.
    Mysore – Inflorescence is vertical.
    Vazhukka - Inflorescence is inclined

Health Benefits of Cardamom


Reduces the occurrence of cancer


High antioxidant qualities of Cardamom prevent free radicals from causing cell and DNA damage (which is a main cause of cancer). Cardamom prevents the growth of cancer cells by boosting the natural immunity.


Helps to keep the heart healthy


By maintaining a healthy blood pressure level, cardamom reduces blood clotting and reducing the growth of fat and cholesterol in arteries. Thus, helps to maintain a healthy heart.


Helps to maintain blood pressure levels


Diuretic effects and antioxidant activities of cardamom helps to reduce blood pressure. And it also reduces blood clotting and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases.


Treats oral diseases


Cardamom is rich in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which helps to reduce gum infection and keeps the teeth healthy.


Reduces digestive tract infections


Cardamom helps to speed up the process of digestion by reducing inflammation in mucosa. This helps to prevent indigestion, acidity and stomach aches.


A natural antidepressant


Cardamom is a natural antidepressant. Rich in thiamine, a strong antioxidant which helps to reduce stress and depression.