We tend to forget that kitchen spices contain powerful medicinal compounds. These seasonings are also time-tested herbal remedies that may help with digestion. They appear to contain powerful anti-inflammatory compounds as well.
Basically, anything that reduces excess inflammation is a healthy step. Many holistic health experts consider inflammation the root cause of disease. So the encourage us to consume foods that put the brakes on runway inflammation. If you suffer from chronic illness, consider runaway inflammation your enemy.
It’s also believed that various common spices, such as cardamon, contain agents that help fight cancer. Although no one is recommending they be used as a stand-alone cancer treatment. But it’s good to know that adding them to your food means your consuming foods that are shown to inhibit cancer, at least in animals.
Is Ground Cardamon Good for You?
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One of the best natural health authorities on the Internet is Dr. Joseph Mercola, DO. (At least as far as I’m concerned.) His website contains a wealth of articles on holistic health. It includes a post on cardamon, in which he lists its historical uses. These include digestive and respiratory problems, as well as tuberculosis and sore throat. He noted that modern researchers have discovered that it also helps with circulation and may offer protective benefits against cancer.
Dr. Mercola is one of my favorite modern practitioners. I love how he gives us information on so many natural remedies. Cardamon is an exotic East Indian and Southeast Asian spice. But one of the benefits of living today is that we can easily obtain ancient remedies from all over the world.
Health Benefits of Eating Cardamon
Adding high-quality spices to your food, I’ve found, is one of the best ways to reap their benefits. For a number of years, I’ve been buying only organic non-irradiated spices. That’s because I’ve learned that kitchen spices contain powerful medicinal compounds. They’ve been used for thousands of years.
I often wonder if one of the reasons we’re seeing so many chronic health problems nowadays is because people have forgotten about these seasonings. You typically don’t find high-end spices in fast food. You usually don’t find exotic spices in highly processed food. Nowadays, though, I cook most of my meals from scratch. So it’s easy to incorporate cardamon into various ethnic cuisines. Cardamon is often used in Indian dishes.
Health Benefits of Using Cardamon
Spices are herbal remedies, as well as seasoning. When taking herbal remedies, I’ve found they work best when I rotate them. This means I don’t use the same remedy too many days in a row, without a break. Cooking with healthy spices means you do this naturally. Most of us don’t eat the exact same meal for weeks on end.
Also, many recipes call for multiple spices. This is a good thing. Herbalists often recommend we take multiple herbs together. That’s why you’ll often see specific blends, designed for a specific problem. It’s believed that this creates a synergy. Individual herbs may become more effective in the presence of another herb.
Health Benefits of Drinking Cardamon Tea
Cardamon has long been used as a digestive remedy. It’s also considered good for general detoxification and for naturally fighting infections. This spice also has a history of use in traditional Indian Ayurvedic medicine as helping to naturally elevate the mood. Another potential benefit is as a cold and flu fighter.
You can make cardamon tea with one or more other spices. Here’s a really easy recipe.
1 tablespoon of raw organic honey (It’s available here)
1/4 teaspoon of ground organic cardamon (It’s available here)
1/4 teaspoon of fennel seed (It’s available here) You’ll need to grind this in a clean coffee grinder.
Mix these ingredients together and put into a stainless steel tea strainer. Steep for a few minutes and then enjoy.
Disclaimer
These statements have not been approved by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Women who are pregnant or nursing should not use essential oils or herbal remedies unless directed to do so by a healthcare professional.
