Herb guide › Cardamom Seed (Elettaria cardamomum)
Cardamom Seed (Elettaria cardamomum)
Aromatic seed pod from the ginger family. Tiny black seeds from the green cardamom pod, intensely aromatic with a warm, resinous, sweet-spicy flavor and hints of lemon and mint. Stronger and more pungent than the whole pod
Traditionally used for
Bloating, indigestion, nausea
Potential benefits
Digestive aid, breath freshener, antioxidant, ease nausea and motion sickness, aid respiratory congestion
Origin
India, Sri Lanka
How it is traditionally prepared
Use ½–1 tsp crushed seeds per cup. Steep in boiling water 8–10 minutes. Drink up to 2 cups daily for digestive support.
Cautions and who should avoid it
Avoid in high amounts during pregnancy; may lower blood pressure—caution with antihypertensive medication; possible interaction with gallstones
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