What is Cardamom? Why it’s used in tea.
Cardamom is an herb that is often used as a spice in foods and beverages. The oil from the seeds is sometimes used to make medicine, it can kill bacteria, reduce swelling, and help the immune system. Naturally, such a herb belongs in tea. It just so happens that it creates a flavorful beverage that offers a wide array of potential health benefits. Made from aromatic cardamom spice, this tea has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to aid digestion, freshen breath, and promote overall well-being.
Digestive and Heart Health
Cardamom tea is an excellent digestive aid that may help reduce symptoms of indigestion, heartburn, upset stomach, and even irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) due to its anti-inflammatory and carminative properties. The tea may also be beneficial for heart health, as it contains potassium, which acts as a vasodilator to decrease blood pressure. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of cardamom tea can help improve circulation, reducing the risk of clogged arteries and heart attacks.
“It smelled like the color thirteen; it felt warm as violet; it whispered cardamom binaries.”
Weight and Oral Health
Cardamom tea is a calorie-free beverage that can support weight loss goals when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise. The tea may help improve digestion and prevent fat buildup in the body. Additionally, cardamom has been traditionally used to freshen breath and promote oral health due to its antimicrobial properties. The essential oils in cardamom, such as cineole, can kill harmful bacteria in the mouth, helping to prevent cavities and treat bad breath.
Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Benefits
Cardamom tea boasts anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce chronic inflammation, which is linked to various health issues. The tea is also rich in antioxidants, which protect cells from damage and may prevent chronic diseases. Some studies suggest that cardamom may contain compounds that combat cancerous cells, although more research is needed. Additionally, cardamom tea is sometimes used as an antidepressant to boost mood and may help manage bronchitis due to its expectorant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Additional Health Benefits
Cardamom tea may offer additional health benefits beyond digestion, heart health, weight management, and oral health. Some studies suggest that cardamom has potential anti-cancer properties, as it contains compounds that may combat cancerous cells, although more research is needed to confirm this. Cardamom tea is also sometimes used as a natural antidepressant to boost mood and alleviate symptoms of depression. Furthermore, the tea's expectorant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties may help manage bronchitis by loosening mucus and congestion in the lungs. Lastly, cardamom tea has been shown to help with morning sickness during pregnancy, likely due to its essential oils, which are similar to those found in ginger.
