28.09.2017

Cardamom is another spice worthy of your attention. On Pripravkino.ru you will get acquainted with its beneficial properties and contraindications for use. Read on to learn more about what cardamom is and why it is one of the most expensive seasonings in the world.

Cardamom is a spice with an intense, slightly sweet taste and a strong resinous aroma. It consists of seed pods (pods) containing several small black seeds. Use whole or ground.

The pods vary in color and size depending on the species.

Cardamom is common in Indian cooking, where it is added to savory dishes, desserts and even drinks. Popular in Middle Eastern cooking, especially as an additive to coffee and tea. It is one of the main spices in many Scandinavian baked goods. Cardamom is often combined with other spices such as cinnamon and cloves and used in savory mixtures such as garam masala.

Cardamom is the third most expensive spice in the world, after saffron and vanilla.

What cardamom looks like - photo

general description

Cardamom is a plant from the Ginger family, growing from 1.5 to 3 m in height. This aromatic spice is native to the evergreen forests of the southern Indian state of Kerala and is grown in several tropical countries.

The leaves are spear-shaped and can grow up to 70 cm in length. The stems are stiff and straight, forming an inverted skirt around the plant. The flowers are tiny but beautiful: white, yellow or red. Different types of cardamom can produce black, white or red fruits (pods).

The pods are tripartite, with a thin but tough outer covering. Inside is the source of the aroma - tiny, dark brown seeds arranged in vertical rows. Each grain is inside a thin transparent membrane.

Types of cardamom

The main type is green cardamom (Elettaria, also known as real cardamom). Used in sweet and savory dishes. It has a thin, almost transparent, green pod filled with small blackish seeds.

This type is the most popular for both culinary and medicinal use.

Less common is black cardamom (Amomum, also known as brown, kravan, Bengal or Siamese). It has a large, thick, rough, black-brown pod filled with black seeds. Has a slightly smoky smell.

Most often, ground or green cardamom is found on store shelves. Another type is considered less healthy and not as fragrant.

How to get seasoning

When the cardamom fruit is fully ripe, it opens and the seeds fall to the ground or are blown away by the wind. Therefore, the pods are harvested while they are in a slightly immature state, and the seeds inside them are just beginning to darken. Next, the pods are dried in the sun.

Sold in whole, broken or crushed pods, seeds only and in ground (powdered) form.

What is the taste and smell?

Cardamom is considered a sweet spice, but its smell is not quite as pleasant as, for example, cinnamon or cloves.

It has a strong floral aroma reminiscent of lemon with mint and notes of eucalyptus. The taste is warm, sweet.

The floral, minty notes of cardamom quickly become unpleasantly medicinal if you add too much of it to a dish.

How to choose and where to buy

Both seeds and ground cardamom are sold in the spice section of supermarkets, while whole pods are available in specialty stores.

When purchasing cardamom, choose green cardamom as it has a complex flavor that suits both sweet and savory dishes.

It is better to choose whole cardamom pods, or rather cardamom pods, rather than ground spices. The greener they are, the better the aroma.

Cardamom is an expensive spice, but most of the cost comes from long-distance transportation and intermediary services. If you do not want to overpay, buy it in the international online store IHerb.

How and how much to store

It is best to store cardamom in pod form because once the seeds are opened or crushed, they quickly lose their scent and aroma.

Cardamom pods last up to a year when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Chemical composition

Cardamom has healing properties due to its composition. This exotic spice contains many chemicals that can prevent disease and promote health.

Nutritional value of cardamom per 100 g.

Name	Quantity	Percentage of daily value, %
Energy value	311 Kcal	15,5
Carbohydrates	68.47 g	52,5
Protein	10,76	19
Dietary fiber	28 g	70
Niacin	1.102 mg	7
Pyridoxine	0.230 mg	18
Riboflavin	0.182 mg	14
Thiamine	0.198 mg	16,5
Vitamin C	21 mg	35
Sodium	18 mg	1
Potassium	1119 mg	24
Calcium	383 mg	38
Copper	0.383 mg	42,5
Iron	13.97 mg	175
Magnesium	229 mg	57
Manganese	28 mg	1217
Phosphorus	178 mg	25
Zinc	7.47 mg	68

Physiological role

The therapeutic properties of cardamom are used in many traditional medicines, as it has the following effects on the body:

• antiseptic;
• antispasmodic;
• carminative;
• digestive;
• diuretics;
• expectorants;
• stimulating;
• tonic.

Why is it useful?

The beneficial properties of cardamom help improve health and prevent many diseases:

1. Treats coughs and colds thanks to its antioxidant properties. The pods are steeped in water along with honey and this cardamom tea is drunk as an effective natural remedy for flu.
2. Helps digestion. The strong aroma activates the sense of taste and improves appetite.
3. Prevents Bad Breath: Cardamom's floral and sweet aroma makes it a natural breath freshener.
4. Regulates blood sugar levels thanks to its high manganese content.
5. Promotes weight loss: Cardamom increases energy metabolism and helps the body burn more fat.
6. Improves Blood Circulation: It increases blood circulation in your body, especially in the lungs and is therefore often used as a treatment for respiratory problems.
7. Treats sleep problems: Inhaling the sweet and soothing aroma of cardamom essential oil can help with insomnia.

Contraindications (harm)

Excessive use of the seasoning can be harmful to health and have a laxative effect. Avoid cardamom if you have gallstones. It can cause gallstone colic.

Cardamom is contraindicated for women during pregnancy and lactation.

Avoid it if you have gastritis and stomach ulcers, as well as allergic reactions.

Use in cooking

Cardamom is added to meats, fruits, legumes and grains, as well as in cookies, baked goods and other baked goods, and is even used as a flavoring in coffee, tea and alcohol.

It is indispensable in the preparation of sausages, fish, sauces, confectionery, canning and winemaking.

Be careful not to add too much cardamom or it will give off an unpleasant medicinal taste.

Whole cardamom pods are used like bay leaves as a seasoning for rice and stew. If you crush the pods before tossing them into your food, more flavor will be extracted.

Cardamom seeds quickly lose their flavor, so it is best to buy it in pods and grind it yourself. You will also save money because the pods are cheaper. To grind this spice, simply remove the seeds from the pods, throw them into a coffee grinder or pound them in a mortar.

How to grind cardamom

Cardamom seeds quickly lose their flavor, so it is best to buy it in pods and grind it at home. You will also save money because the pods are cheaper. To grind this spice, simply crush the pod with the flat side of a knife, remove the cardamom seeds, throw them in a coffee grinder or pound them in a mortar.

If you need to grind cardamom pods:

1. Preheat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2 or 3 minutes, stirring constantly. This will enhance the aroma.
2. Place the cardamom pods in a mortar (or just place them on a cutting board) and crush them with a pestle to break them open.
3. Use your fingers to crush the cracked pods, remove any large husks, and discard. There is no need to remove all the cardamom husks, down to the last fragment.
4. Cardamom seeds are quite hard, so it is better to grind them in a coffee grinder or a special spice grinder for 30 seconds until it becomes a fine powder.

One cardamom pod equals 1/6 tsp. seeds This means you need to buy six pods to make a teaspoon of cardamom.

Where to add

Here are some ways to use cardamom:

1. Substitute cardamom for vanilla when making ice cream and prepare as usual.
2. Remove the tiny seeds from the cardamom pod. Place them in a mortar along with a teaspoon of sugar. Grind with a pestle until they become a powdery mixture. Use cardamom sugar for flavored drinks and baked goods.
3. Use a spoonful of cardamom sugar to add to the whipped cream. Whisk as usual and use for hot cocoa or cupcakes.
4. It works wonders in savory dishes. For example, when you make tomato sauce, add crushed cardamom seeds and a cinnamon stick to the mixture.

Cardamom goes well with cumin, chili powder, cinnamon, coriander, cumin, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, paprika and ground black pepper.

This warm, aromatic drink is especially popular in the Middle East, where cardamom seeds are often ground into coffee beans.

Start with one crushed cardamom per cup of coffee and then adjust the amount to suit your taste. You can add this spice to the coffee grounds in a coffee machine, French press, or coffee pot, depending on the method you use to prepare your coffee.

How to make spicy cardamom tea - recipe

You can simply add cardamom seeds when brewing black, green or ginger tea. The amount of spice will depend on your preference.

It is much more interesting to prepare spicy tea with cardamom. To brew it, you need to open the pods and grind the seeds to create a coarse powder. This will help release oils and powerful beneficial components.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon cardamom seeds (crushed);
• 3 cloves (whole);
• 4 glasses of water;
• 3 black peppercorns;
• 1 tbsp. l. honey (optional).

How to cook:

1. Boil water in a stainless steel pan.
2. Add all the ingredients - cardamom seeds, cloves, pepper and cinnamon stick to boiling water.
3. Now let the liquid simmer over low heat for 15-20 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes.
5. Strain the tea and pour it into glasses. You can add natural honey or do without sweeteners if you are watching your figure.

Cardamom tea recipe – video

What to substitute in the recipe

How can you replace cardamom if you can’t buy it because of the high price? While it has its own completely unique flavor, there are still other spices you can use as a substitute.

Mix equal parts cinnamon and nutmeg and use in place of the same amount of cardamom called for in your recipe.

Try 1 part each cinnamon and ginger or cinnamon and ground cloves.

So, you have learned what cardamom is, how to use it and why it has been famous for centuries for its culinary and medicinal properties.

Many people are accustomed to using aromatic spices only as additions to their favorite dishes, not even suspecting the value of almost every seasoning. Most spices have wonderful properties, can be used to fight diseases and even serve preventive measures against many ailments. The aromatic cardamom is of particular value to fans of alternative medicine. beneficial features and the contraindications of which were known in ancient times.

Cardamom, what is it?

So, cardamom, what is it, and what plant is the raw material for the production of such a valuable substance, which is certainly present in some dishes? The homeland of the spice is sunny, hot India. It is here that the perennial grows, the seeds and leaves of which are used to make a fragrant seasoning. Externally, the spice resembles small bean pods, a prerequisite for collecting which is to pick only unripe raw materials.

Another feature in the manufacture of spices is that they must undergo repeated processing. First, it is thoroughly dried, after which it is moistened and sent for repeated drying. If everything is done correctly, the end result will be cardamom, the beneficial properties and contraindications of which are considered unique.

In order to fully preserve all the wonderful properties, you must definitely take into account the rules for storing the seasoning. It is recommended not to remove it from the pods - not only the aroma will disappear in cardboard packaging, but also some of the beneficial properties, which are the main advantage of the fragrant product.

Cardamom is a rather expensive seasoning, so, despite its valuable properties and pleasant aroma, not all housewives buy it. This is what it is main reason that few people know about exactly what this spice looks like. They will help you figure out exactly what cardamom looks like, a photo that shows this wonderful raw material originally from India.

The seeds of the plant are especially valuable, because they contain essential oils, which give the seasoning a special aroma. They can be used not only in your favorite dishes, but also successfully used for cooking medicinal compositions. The basic rule, which will certainly help preserve the wonderful qualities of the product for a long time, is to tightly close the container with this valuable raw material. Fresh air will quickly dissipate the pleasant aroma of the ether along with its properties, which are used to fight diseases.

Cardamom seasoning, where to add

Residents of India can tell you in detail how to use cardamom correctly, its beneficial properties and contraindications, because almost no dish is complete without this valuable spice. In our country, it is most often used as an additive to drinks, because it not only allows the usual coffee or tea to sparkle with new unusual colors, but also have a positive effect on the body.

How else can cardamom be used as a seasoning, where can the aromatic spice be added? Hereby culinary masterpiece with the addition of spices it will become:

1. baking (it is better to add powdered product);
2. soups (it is recommended to use whole seasoning boxes here);
3. casseroles;
4. salads.

Regardless of what kind of dish you are preparing, you should not overuse seasoning - if you add too much, it can ruin the taste. The aroma of the spice is also quite strong and can overpower the smell of other additives.

How to properly add this fragrant product? It is recommended to first mix it with bulk spices (salt, sugar, pepper, other seasonings), and then add it to the almost finished dish. Recipes usually detail how to use cardamom correctly, so there should be no difficulties with this wonderful product.

Coffee with cardamom, benefits and harms

Fans of the bitter, aromatic drink know very well what coffee with cardamom tastes like, the benefits and harms of this delicacy, and the recipe for proper preparation. What useful qualities does this delicious invigorating drink have? It has many advantages:

1. fight against colds and viruses;
2. normalizing digestive processes;
3. fat burning;
4. getting rid of lethargy and drowsiness;
5. cleansing the body of harmful substances.

Preparation of the drink is very simple. It is enough to mix 20 grams. good coffee with 8-10 g. spice seeds. In a Turk, combine the bulk mixture with 150 ml of water and continue to cook as if it were a regular drink. You can add sugar, but even without this product the drink will be very tasty and delightfully aromatic.

Does this type of coffee have any disadvantages? There is only one, and it is significant - it is not recommended for people suffering from high blood pressure. In such cases, it is better to resort to consuming other drinks that have a less aggressive effect on blood vessels. If you have heart problems, you should also not indulge yourself with a fragrant delicacy - it can cause unpleasant complications.

Tea with cardamom, benefits and harm

No less popular than coffee is tea with cardamom, the benefits and harms of which are known to fans of this fragrant drink. It has many advantages, and one of the most useful is its positive effect on the nervous system. With regular stress, depression and even disorders, you should definitely introduce this tea into your daily diet. The only rule that it is better not to forget about is not to overuse the fragrant liquid. You are allowed to drink it no more than twice a day - this is enough for a beneficial effect.

Another wonderful property of tea is that it will help get rid of insomnia. The main thing is to drink it in small sips just before going to bed, enjoying the spicy aroma and piquant taste.

How to prepare this tea? There are no special features here - first mix tea leaves or granules with a pinch of spice, then pour boiling water over this mixture. You can experiment by adding milk, chopped ginger root, honey or sugar. This will not reduce the beneficial properties of the drink. Interestingly, in the homeland of this wonderful spice, preference is given to tea, to which, in addition to cardamom, almonds are added. The pleasant-tasting liquid perfectly quenches thirst, because it can be consumed not only hot, but also cold.

There are no prohibitions on drinking this tea, but in case of exacerbations of some diseases, it is better to prepare a thin drink. If everything is done correctly, it will only bring benefits.

Cardamom, healthy recipes with this wonderful spice

There are quite a few recipes in which this wonderful substance can be used; it is not necessary to combine the spice with meat - you can prepare excellent dietary dishes. How to use cardamom correctly, useful recipes with its addition, cooking features? There is nothing complicated here, and the proof of this is the delicious pumpkin baked with seasoning:

1. Grind pepper, salt, coriander and parsley leaves, and cardamom powder into a paste.
2. Cut the pumpkin into small pieces, rub each of them with a mixture of spices.
3. Place the pumpkin pieces in foil and wrap each separately.
4. Bake for half an hour at high temperature.

An excellent solution for breakfast are healthy sandwiches. Preparation:

1. Grease slices of bread or loaf with a thin layer of butter.
2. Place tomatoes, herbs, cheese, eggplant on top.

All fans of spices know about cardamom - aromatic triangular white capsules with a pronounced burning taste and camphor aroma with notes of eucalyptus and lemon. The fruits are collected from the perennial herbaceous plant cardamom true, belonging to the Ginger family, starting from the third year of the plant’s life.

Unripe capsules are dried twice in the sun (the second time after re-moistening), resulting in triangular capsules ranging from 8 to 15 mm in length. Cardamom is considered the “king of spices”, as its price is quite high. The plant is distributed only in Ceylon, India, Sri Lanka and Guatemala.

Many readers will be interested in learning about the properties and uses of cardamom - its unique composition allows it not only to be used as a highly concentrated spice, but also as an effective medicinal and aromatherapy agent.

In ancient times, Eastern healers endowed cardamom with mystical powers, claiming that its fruits had great power to stimulate sexual energy. The seasoning was also used for medicinal purposes in the fight against digestive diseases, headaches and loss of strength.

The spice contains up to 8% essential and fatty oils, B vitamins (B1, B2, B3), mineral salts of calcium, zinc, magnesium, iron and phosphorus. Also in small quantities the grains contain protein compounds, fiber, phenols and terpenes (cineole, terpineol, terpinyl acetate).

Useful and healing properties of cardamom

The components of the spice provide a powerful carminative, expectorant, antimicrobial, antiseptic, stimulating, diuretic, diaphoretic and tonic effect.

Its use reduces gas formation in the intestines (flatulence), activates the production of gastric juice and strengthens the muscles of the main digestive organ - the stomach.

Cardamom is considered an effective aphrodisiac that increases potency in men (erectile functions) and libido in women (erotic attraction to the opposite sex).

Due to the property of cardamom fruits to remove accumulated mucus, it is actively used in folk medicine for complex therapy of bronchial asthma, bronchitis, all types of coughs and colds.

Since the spice neutralizes pathogens located on the oral mucosa and freshens breath, it is prescribed to those who suffer from halitosis (bad breath).

Regular inclusion of dishes with the addition of cardamom in the diet helps cleanse the body of accumulated metabolites and toxic substances, stimulates all types of metabolism, making it useful for those who are struggling with extra pounds.

The beneficial properties of cardamom for men lie in the ability of the essential oil and the fruits themselves to increase strength and potency no worse than synthetic stimulants.

Essential oil is obtained from the fruits of the plant, which has all the properties listed above. Etherol is actively used in aromatherapy and cosmetology as an anti-cellulite agent, as well as for rejuvenation, improving nutrition and activating blood circulation in the skin. The smell of cardamom essential oil relieves nervousness and stress, and helps reduce the intensity of emotional experiences.

Use of cardamom in cooking, recipes

A highly concentrated spice with a sharp taste, it is used in microdoses in cooking. Experienced chefs advise purchasing cardamom in pods, the contents of which (triangular grains) are ground immediately before use. The boxes containing the grains themselves can also be ground, but their aromatic properties are less pronounced.

It should be borne in mind that ground spice quickly loses its odor, since volatile compounds from the powder erode into short time. When combining cardamom with other spicy plants, the spice tends to overwhelm their flavor and amber.

In oriental cuisine, tea with cardamom and aromatic coffee are common, and coffee beans can be ground simultaneously with the fruits. Adding aromatic powder to these drinks enhances the tonic properties, stimulating the production of additional energy in the body and brain activity.

The most pressing question that worries novice cooks and housewives is where do they add cardamom? As a flavoring, it is suitable in small quantities in baked goods. In this type of product, its taste can be supplemented with cinnamon, anise, star anise and cloves.

Cardamom is indispensable in the preparation of drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails, compotes, etc. A small amount of the spice can enhance and diversify the taste characteristics of sauces and first courses. The seasoning also harmonizes with fruits and berries.

Ground capsules are added during the preparation of meat products, including sausages and ham, poultry, game, fish and seafood. In order for the aromatic fruits to fully reveal their taste, it is recommended to add cardamom to dishes that are prepared by long-term heat treatment, for example, roast meat, canned pates, stewed meat or pilaf.

In cookbooks, especially on oriental cuisine, you can find a variety of recipes with cardamom.

Oriental coffee (recipe with cardamom)

For two small cups of coffee you will need only 8 cardamom beans, which are ground together with two teaspoons of coffee beans in a coffee grinder (the grind should be very fine).

Coffee, a few salt crystals, a pinch of sugar are placed in the Turk and filled with 160 ml of water. The Turks are heated over low heat, without stirring, until a foam cap forms. The drink must not be allowed to boil. Serve in ceramic cups, adding sugar if desired.

Mexican liqueur Kahlua

Prepare an exquisite liqueur at home, which can be added to alcoholic cocktails or consumed in its pure form, for example, with aromatic oriental coffee.

For ½ liter of water you will need:

• medical alcohol (96% strength) – 0.23 l;
• cardamom grains – 0.1 g;
• vanillin (grind sticks) – 0.1 g;
• ground coffee (preferably beans with chocolate flavor) – 60 g;
• bee honey – 17 g;
• cane sugar (brown) – 300 g.

Preparation:

1. Brew half the ground coffee, ground vanillin and cardamom in a mortar in a coffee machine, using ½ part water (250 ml).
2. Cool the drink to room temperature.
3. Dissolve granulated sugar and honey in the remaining heated water (250 ml), cool.
4. Mix the resulting liquids in a dark glass bottle, pour in alcohol, add the remaining coffee powder, and seal tightly with a lid.
5. Let it brew for 30 days, filter through chintz cloth, and bottle.
6. Keep in a dark place at room temperature for 8 days.
7. The drink is ready to drink. Later store in the refrigerator or cellar.

Non-alcoholic mulled wine

A wonderful warming drink with spices will give you warmth and relieve colds during the cold season. Adults and children drink it with pleasure, naturally, in the absence of allergies to the components of mulled wine.

In an enamel pan, 0.6 liters of red is heated over low heat grape juice(it’s better to take homemade) and 0.1 liter of filtered or spring water.

As the drink heats up, add sequentially: orange and lemon zest (2 tablespoons each), small apple pieces (half a peeled fruit), blue raisins (2 tablespoons), 4 black peppercorns, ground seasonings (cloves, cardamom, ginger, cinnamon).

The amount of spices is taken to taste (cinnamon - no more than 1 teaspoon, cloves - no more than ½ teaspoon, dry ginger - no more than ½ teaspoon, cardamom - no more than 8 grains).

Do not bring to a boil! Cover with a lid, let it brew for 5-7 minutes, pour into glasses and drink hot.

Contraindications for use

To use the spice for good, you need to realize that cardamom has not only beneficial properties, but also contraindications for use. Doctors categorically advise against getting too carried away with adding spices, as well as other aromatic spicy plants, so as not to harm the gastrointestinal tract or injure the nervous system.

You should not add seasoning to food for patients with gastritis, gastric and duodenal ulcers, especially in the acute stage, since the spice stimulates the formation of hydrochloric acid(gastric juice), corroding erosive areas of the mucous membrane.

Spice fruits are contraindicated if you have allergies or a tendency to them. It is not advisable to introduce them into the diet of children under seven years of age, pregnant and lactating women. Abuse of cardamom can cause digestive disorders, poisoning, insomnia and headaches.

If you have chronic and acute diseases, before using cardamom for the first time, it is advisable to obtain the approval of the specialist supervising you.

I wish you good health and new culinary experiments with the royal spice - cardamom!

The site provides reference information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases must be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. Consultation with a specialist is required!

Looking at the pantry of nature, it can be noted that it is enriched with quite valuable medicinal plants, which both bring diversity to culinary dishes, and help to cure numerous ailments, while increasing the tone of the entire body as a whole. The list of such plants includes: cardamom– a spice that is very highly valued by adherents of a healthy lifestyle and balanced diet. What this spice is and what specific beneficial properties it is endowed with, you can find out by reading this article.

Botanical characteristics and production

Cardamom is a fruit ( seeds) is a perennial herbaceous tropical plant of the ginger family. This plant tends to reach a height of 3 to 4 meters. The root of the plant is creeping, but its leaves are lanceolate. 2 stems extend from the root, one of which is leafy, and the other is a creeping flower. The flowers are white in color and collected in small brushes. The leaves are spear-shaped and pale green. The fruit is represented by a three-chamber capsule, which is covered with a leathery green peel. It is these boxes that are collected, and not fully ripe ones. They are collected by hand and only 2 years after planting. They are dried in direct sunlight so that they do not open. Then they are moistened and dried again. It is in this form that the fruits are a spice, which is endowed with a spicy and sweetish taste, as well as a very pleasant strong aroma.

Origin, distribution, species

The evergreen forests of Sri Lanka and South India are considered to be the birthplace of this spice. These same territories are still the main centers for the production of this spice. For example, India alone exports this spice to more than 60 countries around the world. Cardamom also grows in Scandinavia, Laos, New Guinea, Guatemala, Cambodia, Tanzania, Central America, El Salvador and Vietnam. Modern experts distinguish two main types of this plant, namely green or true and black cardamom. In addition to the main types, there are also Chinese, African, tall, Bengal, Java and narrow-leaved cardamom.

Biological characteristics and reproduction

The plant begins to bear fruit only in the 3rd year after planting. It can be harvested from 6 to 15 years. The plant is grown at an altitude of 600 to 1200 meters above sea level. Its favorite places are forest loamy soils, which contain large amounts of nitrogen and organic matter. In this case, the amount of potassium and phosphorus should be insignificant. From 1 hectare it is possible to collect up to 100 kg of fruits. Note that cardamom is very easily damaged by various diseases. It reproduces mainly by seeds, and sometimes by root suckers. Seeds for propagation must be collected exclusively from healthy plants that produce an excellent harvest. The first shoots are observed after 30 - 50 days.

This is interesting!

This spice was brought to both Greece and Rome by Arab merchants, who sold it for a lot of money. Until the 19th century, the plant grew only in the wild, after which it began to be cultivated. Already in the Middle Ages, the fruits of the plant could be purchased in pharmacies, as they were part of a variety of medicines. It was during this period that experts said that with the help of these fruits one could be cured of almost all diseases. Both Pliny and Dioscorides were aware of the healing properties of this spice, who claimed that it was endowed with a fairly powerful stimulating effect.

Chemical composition of seeds

The seeds of this plant are enriched with numerous beneficial components.
They include:

• protein;
• fatty oil;
• amidon;
• cineole;
• terpeneol;
• terpinyl acetate;
• rubber;
• starch;
• iron;
• phosphorus;
• zinc;
• group vitamins IN ;
• magnesium;
• calcium.

This composition makes it possible to use these seeds as a carminative, strengthening, gastric, stimulating, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory agent.

Medicinal properties of seeds

By influencing the human body, cardamom tends to both strengthen the muscles of the stomach and enhance the synthesis of gastric juice, stimulate the functioning of nerve cells, as well as relieve tension and relieve depression. This spice also has a beneficial effect on brain function. She also treats colds, bronchitis, asthma, cystitis, nephritis, pharyngitis and skin diseases.

Since the spice has a peculiar lemon flavor mixed with the taste of camphor and eucalyptus, its use also freshens the breath. Various digestive disorders are also indications for the use of this spice. With its help, you can cleanse the gastrointestinal tract and oral cavity, reduce the severity of toothache, improve the functioning of the heart muscle, neutralize pathogenic microflora in the mouth, and alleviate signs of flatulence. To get rid of hiccups, you need to brew these seeds along with mint. Cardamom is also effective for male potency, for migraines, coughs, and abdominal pain. This spice is also endowed with an antiemetic effect. It has a positive effect on vision, improves mood, increases body tone, eliminates involuntary urination, and relieves urolithiasis. The seeds of this plant are also a pronounced tonic, which is especially useful for regular physical activity. IN mandatory this spice should be included in the daily diet of all those people who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome. Regular consumption of seeds will significantly reduce the risk of developing cancer.

Folk recipes

• For pharyngitis: 0.5 tsp. Pour the spices into 1 cup of boiling water and let it brew. We filter the resulting infusion and use it to gargle 4 – 5 times a day.
• For insomnia: 1 tsp. Brew mashed fruits for 10 minutes in 1 glass of boiled water. As soon as the broth has cooled, drink it. It is best to do this 30 - 60 minutes before going to bed.
• To improve digestion: mix 20 gr. cardamom with the same amount of cumin and 10 g. fennel 2 tsp. Steam the resulting mixture in 1 glass of boiled water for 10 minutes. Then we filter the infusion and take 100–150 ml per day orally.
• For impotence: add 1 tsp to 1 glass of hot milk. honey and a pinch of spice. You need to drink this remedy every evening.
• To improve vision: mix 1 tsp. honey with 4 - 5 seeds. This remedy must be used daily.

As an aphrodisiac

Even in ancient times, people considered this spice to be one of the strongest aphrodisiacs, which was the impetus for the beginning of its use in love magic. It is enough to eat one grain of this spice to tune in to the wave of romance and love. In magic, this spice is considered a source of energy, with the help of which every woman can attract the attention of almost every representative of the opposite sex. Just a few seeds can charm your partner and give you charm. They will make you a pleasant conversationalist, as they will reveal the gift of eloquence.
For love purposes, the following recipe is suitable: take the same amount of ginger, vanilla, lemon balm and cardamom. Grind all the ingredients in a mortar and pestle, and then brew. As a result, you will receive a wonderful “potion” for aromatic magic.

Acceptable dosages and contraindications

Since this spice is concentrated and has a pronounced taste, consuming it in large quantities is strictly contraindicated. The permissible dosage directly depends on both the age and the total weight of the person. In any case, you can eat no more than 0.25 tsp at one time. ground seeds.
As for contraindications, their list includes:

• pregnancy period;
• individual intolerance to components;
• increased sensitivity;
• stomach and duodenal ulcers.

Use for weight loss

Despite the fact that this seasoning is a high-calorie product ( per 100 gr. accounts for more than 300 kcal), experts recommend using it to reduce overall weight. The thing is that this spice both stimulates and increases the activity of metabolic metabolism. As a result, both fats and carbohydrates, as well as calories, are burned much faster, causing weight loss. This fact was known to the ancient inhabitants of India, who used this spice for treatment various forms obesity, and the course of therapy was quite successful. An important condition in this case is the selection of boxes of a given plant. They must be whole and green, not gray-yellow. Otherwise, you will not get the necessary therapeutic effect. A mixture of cardamom and cinnamon, which tends to significantly lower glucose levels, will help you lose extra pounds even faster. According to Ayurveda, to lose weight, you just need to sprinkle seeds on any dish that you have prepared. A special massage mask will help get rid of problematic oily skin, which is often observed in obesity.

Its recipe is quite simple: we take the boxes of this plant, grind them in a coffee grinder or blender and mix thoroughly with olive or sesame oil. The mask should be applied to the skin with massage movements while taking a bath.

The healing effects of essential oil

Cardamom essential oil is a pale yellow or clear liquid that is endowed with a delicate spicy aroma and a large number of beneficial properties. There is an opinion that this oil was first obtained by distillation. This happened around 1544. By influencing the human body, this oil helps normalize the digestion process, has an antiseptic and carminative effect, enhances the activity of the stomach and brain, increases sexual activity, and also strengthens the entire body as a whole. It is also endowed with a tonic, diuretic, and antispasmodic effect. With its help, you can enhance the secretion of saliva.

1. Impact on the body: The use of this oil is possible in the treatment of both heartburn and flatulence, nausea, diseases of the gall and bladder, as well as various ailments of the respiratory system.
Dyspepsia ( feeling of discomfort in the upper digestive tract) is another indication for the use of this oil. You cannot do without its help if you need to improve appetite, get rid of bad breath, reduce irritability during premenstrual syndrome, forget about headaches and various disorders of the urination process.

2. Effect on skin: The skin is first regenerated under the influence of this oil. In addition, the oil effectively fights scabies, various fungal infections and lichens. It also cleanses the skin, makes it elastic, tones, deodorizes and stimulates natural cellular renewal.

3. Impact on consciousness: helps relieve fatigue, eliminate melancholy, get rid of depression, forget about fears and headaches. It also lifts your spirits and restores your strength. Enriches the body with the necessary amount of energy, gives self-confidence, awakens hope.

Attention! If you have sensitive skin, then use this oil with extreme caution. Otherwise, it is quite possible to develop a severe allergic reaction.

Homemade mask recipes

• Mask to improve facial contour: mix 3 drops of almond oil with the same amount of cardamom oil, 5 drops of rose oil and 2 drops of avocado oil. Apply the mask to the face and after 15 minutes wipe the skin with a damp cotton swab.
• Mask for oily problem skin: mix thoroughly 1 tsp. honey with 0.5 tsp. fine sea salt. Dissolve 3 – 4 drops of cardamom oil in 2 tbsp. l. milk. Combine both mixtures and mix them well again. Using a cotton swab, apply the mask to the face and other problem areas skin. After 20 - 25 minutes, wash it off with warm water. This mask should be done no more than once every 5-6 days. The course of therapy is one and a half months.
• Massage anti-cellulite mask: mix 10 drops of cardamom essential oil with the same amount of tea tree oil and 30 g. olive oil . Apply the resulting mixture to problem areas of the skin with massage movements.

Use in aromatherapy

Modern aromatherapists use cardamom essential oil as a stomachic, invigorating, carminative, warming, and also antispasmodic. This oil is especially often prescribed in the presence of peripheral circulatory disorders. The first sign of such disorders is considered to be cold upper or lower limbs. For coughs, the oil is prescribed in the form of inhalations. To increase sexual activity, experts recommend drinking a glass of wine daily, after adding 1 to 2 drops of this oil to the drink. The oil in the aroma lamp will help get rid of neuroses and stress. Oil is added to baths to treat joint pathologies and colds. For colds, the oil can also be used as a gargle ( for 1 glass of water 1 – 2 drops). Pairs perfectly with essential oils of incense, juniper, pine, coriander, cedar, caraway, and anise. At what pathological conditions These combinations of oils are used, you can find out by consulting a specialist.

Milk with cardamom - “healing potion”

Milk with this seasoning is considered not only tasty, but also healthy drink, which will appeal to both adults and children. It is especially useful for children, as it helps calm the nervous system and significantly improves heart function. Most often, this drink is drunk before going to bed.
Cooking time: 5 minutes.
Ingredients: 3 glasses of milk, 10 pieces of almonds, 0.5 tbsp. l. cardamom, sugar to taste.
Recipe: Mix peeled almonds with milk in a blender. Pour the mixture into a saucepan and bring it to a boil. As soon as the mixture boils, add sugar and spices to it. Cook everything for 5 minutes. This drink must be consumed warm.

How to make cardamom tea?

There are many recipes for making this tea. Here is one of them: mix 20 grams. of this spice with the same amount of cumin and 10 grams. fennel. The resulting collection in the amount of 2 tsp. steam for 10 minutes in 250 ml of boiling water. After just 10 minutes, the tea can be strained and drunk. Experts recommend drinking it in the amount of 1 cup per day for severe flatulence, to improve appetite, and also for Roemheld syndrome (a complex of reflex functional cardiovascular changes that occur mainly after eating).

Cardamom and coffee

Coffee in combination with this spice is a drink that will first of all wake you up and provide you with energy for the whole working day, so experts recommend drinking it exclusively in the morning. There are several ways to prepare this coffee. One of the options is this: pour coffee into a Turk and add whole boxes of spices to it. In this case, there is no need to remove the grains from the boxes. We brew coffee as usual. As soon as a foamy head forms on the coffee, remove it from the heat, pour it into a cup and drink with pleasure.

Cardamom in cooking

Despite the fact that this spice is expensive, it is used quite widely in cooking, and all because it goes well with many different dishes. Both seeds and pods, as well as fresh herbs of this plant, are added to dishes. Westerners use this spice to prepare both rice, potato, and vegetable dishes. It is often added to soups, mainly from legumes - peas, beans, etc. The population of Asian countries most often uses this spice to prepare pilaf. All over the world it is also used to improve the taste of meat dishes made from lamb, beef or veal. This spice goes well with garlic and onions. In this combination, it significantly improves the taste of poultry dishes. In the food industry, cardamom is added to minced meat, seafood, sausages, ketchups, pates and canned fish. The spice is often added to desserts, namely puddings, fruit salads and sweet cottage cheese dishes. As a natural flavoring it is added to cakes, pies, breads, muffins, buns, cookies, rolls and pastries.

• To prepare boiled fish, this spice is best used in combination with nutmeg;
• When buying cardamom boxes, carefully ensure that they are intact. Otherwise, you will not feel the wonderful aroma;
• This spice can be added to dishes either in whole boxes or in the form of removed seeds, after grinding them.

Cooking recipes

1. Rice pudding with cardamom: To prepare this dish you will need 70 grams. rice, 75 ml heavy cream, 900 ml milk, 70 gr. sugar, 5 grains of this spice, 2 chicken yolks and 0.5 tsp. salt. Place a 5-liter saucepan over low heat, bring rice, milk, salt, spice grains and sugar to a boil. Reduce heat and cook everything for 60 minutes, stirring occasionally. During this time, beat the egg yolks and cream. Gradually add 200 grams to them. hot rice pudding. Place the mixture in a saucepan and cook for about 3 minutes. Once the mixture boils, pour it into a bowl. This pudding is best served warm.

2. Wreath with cardamom: you will need 50 gr. warm water, the same amount of yeast, 180 ml melted butter, 2 small eggs, 250 gr. Sahara. Also 375 ml of warm milk, 800 gr. flour, 0.5 tsp. ground spices and 0.5 tsp. salt. To prepare lemon glaze, you need 50 ml of milk or water, 500 ml of powdered sugar and the zest or juice of 1 lemon. Mix water with yeast and leave the mixture for 5 minutes. Then add butter, milk, sugar, salt, eggs and cardamom to it. Stir everything thoroughly, gradually adding flour. As a result, you will get a fairly thick dough. Place it in a large bowl, cover with a cloth and leave in a warm place for 1.5 - 2 hours. Then we divide the dough into 6 equal parts and roll them into ropes, the length of which should reach 60 cm. We weave 2 braids and connect them around. We get 2 wreaths, place them on a baking sheet and leave for 40 minutes. Bake wreaths for no more than 35 minutes at a temperature of 160 - 170 degrees. Serve warm, first coated with lemon glaze. If desired, you can decorate the dish with candied fruits or candied fruits.

3. Curd bombs with persimmon and cardamom: you will need 1 glass of flour, 1 yolk, 400 gr. cottage cheese, breadcrumbs, sour cream, 4 ripe persimmons. In addition, 3 - 4 cardamom seeds, a pinch of sea salt, 2 tsp. sugar, as well as olive oil. Place the cottage cheese in a deep bowl and knead it with a spoon. Peel the persimmon and cut it into small cubes. Mix everything thoroughly. Add the yolk, sugar, salt and a quarter cup of flour to the resulting mixture. Pound the spice grains in a mortar and add to the dough. We also put the remaining flour in it. Pour breadcrumbs onto a cutting board and roll each piece of curd dough into it, taken with a large spoon. You need to roll the dough on all sides. Heat the oil and deep fry the bombs, each for about 3 - 5 minutes. After this, put everything on a plate lined with a paper towel, which will help remove excess fat. This dish is best served with sour cream.

What is cardamom? The beneficial properties and contraindications of this product will be discussed further. We will also tell you about what this seasoning looks like, where and how it is used, and why it is needed.

General information

Do you know what cardamom is? The beneficial properties and contraindications of this product are known to few. Moreover, some housewives believe that this is some kind of exotic fruit or vegetable. But that's not true. Cardamom is a common spice (condiment). It is very often added to African and Asian dishes. For some time now, this seasoning has become very popular in our country.

origin of name

How is cardamom obtained, the beneficial properties and contraindications of which are the cause of disagreement among many experts? The word "cardamom" (emphasis on the last syllable) comes from the Greek "καρδάμωμον". This term is used to refer to the fruits of the perennial plant Cardamom, which belongs to the Ginger family.

The fruits of this herb ripen only in the 3rd year and have a rather strong aroma with camphor tones. This seasoning is one of the most expensive spices. That is why she was nicknamed the “Queen of Spices.”

Production

You can learn everything about cardamom and its beneficial properties from the materials in this article. What does this seasoning look like? We will tell you about this too.

The unripe fruits of true Cardamom are small boxes. In cross-section they have a triangular cross-section. They are collected and then dried in the sun. After this, the fruits are moistened and dried again. As a result of this processing, triangular capsules are obtained, which are white in color and length from 0.7 to 1.4 cm.

Everything about the beneficial properties of cardamom is known not only to experienced cooks, but also to residents of India. After all, this country is the birthplace of this spice. True cardamom grows on the Malabar Coast and Ceylon. In the 21st century, Guatemala began to produce the largest quantities of this spice.

Features of the spice

The beneficial properties of cardamom for treating and strengthening the human body are invaluable. But before using this product, you need to find out what features it has.

Due to the fact that all its aroma very quickly disappears from the ground fruits of the herbaceous plant, it is recommended to purchase cardamom only in pods or so-called boxes. Before direct use, the pods are shelled and the grains themselves are ground. By the way, some chefs grind not only fruits, but also whole cardamom. However, the aroma of this spice is not very pronounced.

Useful properties and uses of cardamom

Cardamom is a concentrated spice that has a distinct taste. Therefore, this spice is used only in small quantities. Cardamom grains contain about 3-8% essential oil. It contains fatty oil, as well as substances such as terpinyl acetate, terpineol, cineole and protein. The squeeze from the fruits of the herbaceous plant is quite widely used in perfumery.

What else is cardamom used for? The beneficial properties and contraindications of this spice are such that in India in the Middle East it is often added to tea and coffee (for example, masala tea and Bedouin coffee). By the way, to prepare the last drink, coffee and cardamom beans are almost always ground together. When combined with other seasonings, this spice usually completely overpowers their flavor.

Cardamom is a pronounced tonic. Due to the presence of the substances that were presented above, in the Middle Ages this spice was actively used to stimulate the secretion of gastric juice and strengthen the muscles of the stomach. In addition, cardamom was used as an aphrodisiac (a drug to increase sexual desire) and as a carminative.

Cardamom: beneficial properties, composition, calorie content

What substances does a seasoning like cardamom contain? This spice contains a lot of calcium, phosphorus, iron, magnesium and zinc. By the way, there is much more natural zinc in the fruits of real Cardamom than in many other spices.

Among other things, this spice contains vitamins B2, B1 and B3.

In Eastern medicine, it is believed that cardamom helps to quickly remove mucus from the human body. That is why it is very often used in the treatment of patients with asthma, bronchitis, colds and coughs.

Supporters of alternative medicine also claim that the fruits of real Cardamom cleanse the intestinal tract well. That is why it is included in many herbal preparations that are designed to improve digestion. In addition, the spice we are considering is actively used to cleanse the breath and oral cavity. This is due to the fact that the seasoning quite effectively neutralizes pathogenic flora.

Speaking about energy value, I would like to note that cardamom is a fairly high-calorie spice. 100 g of this seasoning contains about 311 kcal. But due to the fact that it is used in small quantities, it cannot in any way affect a person’s figure. Therefore, it is used even during strict diets.

Beneficial features

Having talked about the fact that cardamom is called an aromatic spice, I would like to move on to its beneficial properties. The boxes of this seasoning contain all the most valuable things that this herbaceous plant contains. Cardamom seeds are excellent aphrodisiacs. Moreover, they quickly relieve a person’s daytime fatigue and give him energy. To do this, you just need to chew a couple of seeds.

There are a great many varieties of this spice. Moreover, they can all differ quite significantly both in aroma and taste. The most popular are green and black cardamom. It is these seasonings that have the best effect on human health.

The plant we are considering is also an excellent antioxidant. It quite easily removes all harmful substances from the body.

The main benefits of cardamom are the following:

• It can be added to both tea and coffee. This gives the drink a special piquancy and also neutralizes the adverse effects of caffeine.
• Cardamom grains can be used as a cold preventative.
• Cardamom in combination with honey has a positive effect on the nervous system. It is advisable to use this remedy every day.
• Crushed seeds along with sesame and olive oil make an excellent mask for oily skin.
• Green cardamom has properties that help boost the human immune system.

Another secret property of this spice is that it helps burn fat and helps in weight loss. Cardamom also improves digestion and speeds up metabolism. When combined with red pepper and cinnamon, this seasoning becomes good remedy for weight loss.

Contraindications for use

The spice cardamom, the beneficial properties and contraindications of which we are considering, is quite specific. That is why you should familiarize yourself with all its features before using it. After all, such a spice has not only beneficial properties, but also some contraindications.

If we consider cardamom fruits from a medical point of view, then under no circumstances should they be consumed by those people who have an individual intolerance to the constituent components. It should be noted that this is one of the main contraindications to the use of seasoning.

It should also be said that patients suffering from intestinal and stomach diseases (with ulcers, erosion and other ailments) are highly discouraged from consuming this spice, even in small quantities. Otherwise, the course of the disease may worsen.

Nursing mothers and pregnant women should also not consume cardamom or any of its varieties.

Many experts note that the beneficial properties of this spice can simultaneously act as contraindications. It depends on the diet of the person himself. For example, if you consume both cardamom and any oil in large quantities, this will not contribute to your weight loss. On the contrary, the weight will increase and increase.

Important information

Those who have decided to improve their health with the help of the spice we are considering should definitely know that it is very important to follow the dosage of cardamom when preparing various dishes and medicines. So, in no case should you include more than a quarter of a teaspoon of ground seeds in your food at one time.