Being a rich source of various health-beneficial properties, elaichi has been used for treating and healing the human body for ages. Ayurveda, the Chinese medicinal system, and Unani discovered the benefits of cardamom a thousand years back. Usually, people use it to enhance the flavor of their meals, however, it can be consumed to manage common health concerns. Let us take a look at elaichi medicinal uses:

Balancing Doshas

Did you know? Elaichi is tridoshic. In Ayurveda, it is believed that it can balance all three doshas of the body. However, it is particularly good for kapha dosha, especially in the stomach and lungs. The second main advantage is, that it can pacify your Vata dosha. 

Ayurveda values a complete balance in the body. It believes that a balanced body is a fit body, i.e., free from any disease. On the contrary, any imbalance in the body can lead to the development of various health problems.

 

Digestive Health Support

Is your upset stomach making you upset? From aiding in digestion to providing calming effects, elaichi will help you with all digestive concerns. It has some very positive effects on human digestive health. Free yourself from bloating, gas, indigestion, and other discomforting symptoms with elaichi. This means it will improve your overall digestion process and gut health.  

Wonder how it is possible? Cardamom stimulates the secretion of digestive enzymes. This helps with better digestion and lower digestive problems. The essential oil menthone in it will help with gastrointestinal problems like acidity, flatulence, and stomach aches. 

To attain these benefits, you can just simply chew an Elaichi after your meal. If you like, you can also combine it with mishri to soothe the digestive tract.

 

Respiratory Benefits

Respiratory infections and disorders have really disturbing symptoms. They can cause difficulty in breathing, troubling the individual with their sleep and other chores. These may include asthma, common cold, sore throat, sinusitis, etc.

Have you ever noticed, our grandparents used to tell us to add elaichi and ginger to our regular milk tea for relief from the common cold and sore throat. Ever thought why so? This is because the compounds in elaichi hold the power to help get relief. For example, from mucus, minor headaches, cold, cough, and other similar symptoms. It has antimicrobial properties that make it a beneficial remedy for respiratory problems.

 

Anti-inflammatory Effects

Why are anti-inflammatory compounds so essential for our body? The benefits it provides are; it helps reduce swelling, redness, soreness, and other discomforting signs. On the contrary, it calms and soothes the skin and body. The good news is, that cardamom is known to contain such anti-inflammatory effects in it.

It is also known to help relieve the pain that is associated with arthritis, gout, headaches, etc.

 

Diabetes

Currently, some more research is needed for elaichi regarding diabetes. However, studies and research now show that it may have the potential to manage diabetes, especially Type 2. By digging deeper, it showed that it reduces blood glucose levels and insulin resistance. The main helping hand for this health benefit is Elaichi’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. As, it improves metabolic syndrome, which is linked with diabetes.

Therefore, some cardamom remedies are suggested by Ayurvedic doctors to diabetes patients only after analyzing their condition well. More research is required in this field, hence do not consume or add it to your diet on your own. Go for an expert consultation first.

 

Skin Benefits

When too many toxins accumulate in the body, we often lose our glow on the skin. To retain a smooth glowing skin, internal detoxification of the body is necessary. Green elaichi benefits the body with detoxification. Furthermore, it can reduce inflammation and boost collagen production. This will help your skin to age backwards; retaining a smooth texture and glow, and prevention from fine lines.

Cardamom water is one of the most effective ways to help regain your skin health. To make cardamom water - 

• Lightly crush the pods

• Boil water in a pan

• Add crushed cardamom to the boiling water

• Let the mixture steep for 5-15 mins. 

• Strain water and serve lukewarm

 

Oral Health

Cineole, cardanole, and terpinene - compounds of elaichi. These are naturally high in antibacterial properties. It helps fight tooth decay and other gum problems. To strengthen our teeth and prevent cavities, calcium and phosphorus are essential. In a study, it was found that elaichi contains these essential nutrients in them.  

Additionally, it can be used as a mouth freshener or breath sweetener. Many people already use it in this way for years. If it is mixed in a natural homemade paste, it will act as a binder and improve the texture of toothpaste, adding a mild, pleasant taste to it.

 

Other 

Besides the above-provided benefits, its list of advantages doesn’t end here. It also aids in weight loss, blood pressure, cancer risk, immune system, liver health, anxiety, alzheimer's, and much more.

 

Uses of Elaichi

The amount of addition or usage of elaichi completely depends on one’s preference. The way it can be used in recipes varies greatly. But one thing to keep in mind is, this is a potent spice and if overused, can overpower the other flavors in the dish. Therefore, if you are ever in doubt, start with a minimal amount then add as per your taste. 

Here’s a deeper knowledge of the uses of elaichi in culinary.

 

Culinary Uses

 

Elaichi Side Effects & Precautions

Cardamom is a safe spice to consume. Yet, some people have experienced an allergic reaction after its consumption. The symptoms were likely related to skin rashes and breathing difficulties. 

Overconsumption of herbs or spices is bad for the body. Therefore, if you consume Elaichi more than the dosage suggested to you, it may affect your body and cause gastrointestinal issues. These include heartburn, diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, etc. 

This may also increase the risk of hypertension (high blood pressure). Hence, people with blood pressure concerns are advised to consume elaichi only after consulting a doctor. 

The cardamom interacts with certain medications like blood thinners and drugs. This can poorly affect your liver health. Thus, an expert consultation before consumption is essential for every herb and spice. 

Are you a mom-to-be? Be careful! It is usually not suggested to pregnant females and also during breastfeeding months. The compounds of spice can transfer to the baby from the mom. During pregnancy months, it can stimulate the uterus and cause uterine contractions. In worst cases, it can lead to miscarriage.

 

Precaution: If you want to add a new health-beneficial spice or herb that you saw online, do not forget to ask your doctor first. They will diagnose your body, check medical reports, and current medications, and will then suggest to you if it suits your body prakriti or not. 

The Bottom Line 

Different types of elaichi possess different benefits in them. It is one of the most popular spices that have been used worldwide in many different global cuisines. It's taste and strong aroma give a unique flavor to the meals. Its usage is very diverse. It can be used in meals for savory flavor or can boost the taste of your sweet dishes or different beverages.