Elettaria cardamomum

Elettaria cardamomum (Origin: India, Nepal, and Bhutan) is regarded as the Queen of Spices and is one of the most expensive spices, ranking third, the first and second being saffron and vanilla, respectively.

It is found in the form of a small pod with black seeds inside. Both the seeds and the pod give a pleasant aroma and flavor. Therefore, they are used as flavoring agents in Indian cuisine.

Health Research studies conducted at the Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceuticals, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Saudi Arabia showed that cardamom administration for cardiovascular conditions resulted in a lower heartbeat or controlled rhythm, and control of hypertension. The micronutrients found in it can counteract the surge of lipids in the body.
The methanolic extract from cardamom is the component that helps in controlling gastrointestinal disorders such as acidity, flatulence, and stomach cramps.

It was observed that the oils from cardamom were able to inhibit the growth and spread of some of the very dangerous microbes that regularly cause food poisoning.

Recent experimental evidence shows that cardamom possesses anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic properties. Dietary cardamom has a positive result in counteracting colorectal cancer to an extent of 48%.

The essential oils and biochemicals present in cardamom provide detoxifying effects.