CARDAMOM
Elettaria cardamomum
Common Name: Cardamom
Family: Zingiberaceae
Ayurvedic Name: Ela (Sanskrit), Elaichi (Hindi)
Parts Used: Seeds, seed pod
Actions: Anti-catarrhal, Anti-fungal, Anti-nausea,  Antibacterial, Antioxidant,  Aromatic, Carminative, Cholagogue, Circulatory, Stimulant,  Decongestant,  Diaphoretic,  Diuretic,  Expectorant
Taste: Pungent,  Sweet
Energy: Cool, Dry, Hot, Light, Warm
Caramom is well known for aiding in the regulation of the digestive system and reducing the uncomfortable bloating and embarrassing gas. It contains a component called Methanolic extract which is an antioxidant and is known to provide relief from stomach cramps, flatulence and even help with stomach ulcers.
 
The health benefits of cardamom include gastrointestinal protection, cholesterol control, control of cancer, relief from cardiovascular issues, and the improvement of blood circulation in the body. It is useful for curing dental diseases and urinary tract infections such as cystitis, nephritis, and gonorrhea. Cardamom possesses aphrodisiac properties and is also used as a cure for impotency, erectile dysfunction, and premature ejaculation. Cardamom has Anti-Carcinogenic Properties, Good for Cardiovascular Health, Controls Cholesterol, Anti-Depressant, Treats Urinary Disorders, protection against Gastrointestinal Diseases, Detoxification and improves Blood Circulation.   
 
Used widely in food and medicinal applications, according to Ayurvedic theory cardamom reduces vata and kapha doshas, and in excess can increase pitta (Frawley & Lad, 1988). It has an influence on at least three of the seven dhatus (bodily tissues), rasa (plasma), rakta (blood), and majja (bone marrow and nerve tissues), and is applied for concerns in the digestive, respiratory, circulatory, and nervous systems (Frawley & Lad, 1988). 
 
Cardamom stimulates vata that governs the gastrointestinal tract and the digestion, absorption, and assimilation of nutrients in the body, as well as influences the functions of the liver and pancreas (Frawley & Lad, 1988).  One way it does this is by enkindling agni, the digestive fire.  Herbalists prize cardamom for supporting those with weak digestion and digestive stagnation, as cardamom can dry the dampness and excess kapha in the system (Frawley & Lad, 1988; McBride, 2010; Pole, 2006), benefiting symptoms such as gas, bloating, colic, pain, indigestion (Pole, 2006; Frawley, 2001). This function is analogous to the western concept of a “carminative,” which can enhance digestion by increasing the flow of oxygen and blood to the digestive tract (McBride, 2010).  
 
By stoking the digestive fire and enhancing function, cardamom also can reduce the congestion or excess mucus production induced by kaphagenic or damp/heavy foods, such as bananas, yogurt, ice cream, dairy,  sweet, frozen beverages, or grains (Frawley, 2001; Frawley & Lad, 1988; Mars 2001; McBride, 2010). Blended in a traditional masala chai, it may ward off headaches related to indigestion as well as colds and the flu (McBride, 2010).