Cardamom-Zingiberaceae Elettaria
TRADITIONAL HERB AT A GLANCE
| Family: | Zingiberaceae |
| Botanical Name and Synonyms: | 'Zingiberaceae Elettaria' |
| Common Names: | Cardamom, Green cardamom, Elachi, Elaichi, Aelam, Elakkai |
Background:
Cardamom has long been recognized for both its medicinal and culinary properties. Cardamom is a staple culinary component in South Asian cuisine, and is added to many dishes and drinks. Cardamom seeds also hold many health benefits and medicinal qualities.
Traditional Usage:
Used to treat gastrointestinal problems including indigestion, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, constipation, upset stomach and flatulence Seeds chewed to freshen breathe Fight infection of the gums, mouth and throat
Cardamom, the queen of the spices, is widely used in pungent and sweet dishes to provide a strong aroma and flavor. In Ayurvedic medicine, this aromatic spice is considered as a very useful and effective medicine. Cardamom is a dried fruit of a plant and is indigenous to the Middle East, Scandinavia, and North Africa. Cardamom is grown in only few tropical countries including Sri Lanka, India and Guatemala. The spice does more than just providing flavor to foods; it offers numerous health benefits ranging from being a digestive system tonic to its use as an essential oil in aroma therapy. Read on to know more about the health benefits of cardamom.
Scientifically, cardamom is known as Elettaria cardamomum and it belongs to the family of "zingiberaceae". Two varieties of the cardamom are available in the market: the green cardamom and the black cardamom. Both varieties feature three sided pods containing small black seeds which are arranged in vertical rows alongside a thin papery outer cover. The green cardamom has very strong flavor as well as it is more expensive than the black cardamom. Commonly, the seeds of the spice are used as additives in beverages like tea and coffee as they impart unique flavor and taste to these beverages.
Common Names and Synonyms:
Elachi, Elaichi, Cardamom, Green cardamom, Aelam, Elakkai

