Last Updated on May 12, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta
Black cardamom is a spice that has been an integral part of Indian and Southeast Asian cuisine for centuries. This spice belongs to the black cardamom family, Zingiberaceae. It commonly features a distinctive smoky and earthy flavour. People use it in a variety of dishes, such as curries, biryanis, and stews. Apart from its culinary uses, black cardamom is also known for its numerous health benefits and has been used as a medicinal herb in Ayurveda. Various ancient Indian texts like Charaka Samhita mention black cardamom as a powerful remedy for various ailments, including digestive disorders, respiratory problems, and dental issues. In India, black cardamom has played an important role in religious and cultural practices. Today, countries such as India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh value black cardamom and produce it. The pods are carefully handpicked, dried, and sold in the market.
Health benefits of black cardamom
May have antioxidant effects
Reports suggest that black cardamom exhibits pharmacological potential against inflammation. It has traditionally been used as an anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory agent. The volatile oil present in the seed and leaves extract contains several compounds, including myrcene, limonene, and 1,8-cineole. The methanolic extract of black cardamom may regulate pro-inflammatory mediators and target cyclooxygenase enzymes, thereby reducing inflammatory responses. The extract also showed involvement in the heme oxygenase-1 pathway, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic alternative for treating various inflammatory conditions. Furthermore, a study found that the extract could inhibit the growth of Mutans Streptococci at increasing concentrations. Future investigations aimed at identifying the bioactive components for pharmacological development could lead to the creation of novel anti-inflammatory agents.
May have antibacterial properties
Research indicates that black cardamom may have antibacterial properties. A study published in the Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology found that the extract of black cardamom was able to inhibit the growth of Mutans Streptococci, a type of bacteria commonly found in the mouth. The inhibition increased with the concentration of the extract, ranging from 5% to 40%. This suggests that black cardamom may have potential as an antibacterial agent.
May aid in digestion
Black cardamom has traditionally been used as a digestive aid. It may help stimulate the production of digestive juices in the stomach, which can improve digestion. Black cardamom may also help relieve indigestion, bloating, and flatulence. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that the essential oil of black cardamom had a protective effect against ethanol-induced gastric ulcers . This suggests that black cardamom may have potential as a natural remedy for gastrointestinal disorders.
May aid in respiratory health
Black cardamom may have respiratory health benefits. It has been found to have bronchodilatory properties, which means it can help relax the airway muscles and improve breathing. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology states that black cardamom essential oil exhibited significant bronchodilatory activity in guinea pigs. Black cardamom may also have expectorant properties, which means it can help loosen phlegm and mucus from the respiratory tract.
May have anti-cancer properties
Black cardamom contains several compounds, including limonene and cineole, that have been found to have anti-cancer properties. These compounds have been shown to induce apoptosis (cell death) in cancer cells and prevent the growth and spread of cancer. A study published in the journal Food and Chemical Toxicology found that black cardamom extract had anti-cancer effects against liver cancer cells.
May have hypoglycemic properties
Research suggest that black cardamom may have hypoglycemic effects, which means it can help regulate blood sugar levels. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that the aqueous extract of black cardamom had a hypoglycemic effect in diabetics. This suggests that black cardamom may have potential as a natural remedy for diabetes or for those at risk of developing the condition.
May aid in cardiovascular health
A study has examined the effect of black cardamom’s aqueous extract on blood pressure and found that it can lower the mean arterial blood pressure and reduce the heart rate. This is due to the stimulation of muscarinic receptors, which leads to the production of nitric oxide (NO). NO then diffuses into smooth muscle cells to cause relaxation, leading to hypotension. Additionally, black cardamom has been reported to maintain heart health by reducing blood clots and regulating blood pressure, according to another study.
Conclusion
Black cardamom is a spice that has been used in Indian and Southeast Asian cuisine for centuries. It is an integral part of Ayurvedic medicine. This school of medicine believes that it possesses medicinal properties to treat various ailments. Black cardamom has a rich history in India and has been used for religious, cultural, and commercial purposes. Its popularity continues to grow, and it remains an essential spice in Indian cuisine.
Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.
