SCIENTIFIC NAME: Elettarin cardamomum

HINDI NAME: Elaichi

 

ENGLISH NAME: Cardamom

 

FAMILY: Zingiberaceae

SHORT DESCRIPTION

 

Cardamom, the queen of spices, is tridoshic, which means it is good for balancing all three Doshas, according to Ayurveda. It's excellent for balancing Kapha, particularly in the functioning of the stomach and lungs. It can also help to calm Vata. Cardamom is an aphrodisiac that boosts libido.

USES/BENEFITS/DISEASES

• Improves oral health
• Kinders digestive power reduces the risk of gastroenteritis
• Cures liver and gall bladder complaints
• Improves lung functioning
• Aids in weight loss
• Lowers blood pressure
• Improves immunity
• Anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial action

PRECAUTIONS/ SIDE EFFECTS

• Appetite loss, if taken in large quantity.
• After-surgery nausea and vomiting, sore throat and mouth ulcer. 
• Urinary issues

HOW TO USE

• To alleviate hiccups 1-2 fruits, are chewed frequently (no more than 4 per day).
• To improve bad breath, chew 1-2 seeds frequently (no more than 4 times per day).
• Chewing elaichi (no more than three times per day) is also beneficial in both dry and productive coughs or take it with a teaspoon full of honey 3-4 times per day.
• Take 50-500 gm. powder of seeds fried in ghee thrice daily with honey to relieve vomiting episodes.
• Common colds can be treated with a 10 ml. decoction made from 5 gm. Dhania seeds, 1 gm. Methi seeds, and a pinch of turmeric powder, to be taken 2-3 times per day.