About this ingredient
Cardamom is an aromatic spice obtained primarily from the seeds and pods of plants in the Elettaria genus, especially green cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum). It is widely used as a culinary spice and in traditional herbal practices.
Cardamom contains naturally occurring volatile oils and phytochemicals, including 1,8-cineole, Ξ±-terpinyl acetate and limonene, which contribute to its characteristic aroma and flavor. Cardamom extracts and powders are used in herbal supplements, digestive-support formulations, teas, functional foods and botanical blends.
Research has investigated cardamom for antioxidant activity and various aspects of metabolic and cardiovascular health, although evidence depends on the preparation, amount consumed and specific health outcome studied.
