Cardamom seeds are known by several names in the Arab world, including cardamom, cardamom pods, and cardamom kernels. They have a pleasant flavor when added to food, pastries, or coffee, as is common in many Arab regions.
What gives cardamom its distinctive flavor are the aromatic or volatile oils found in the seeds. These oils have a wonderful, soothing effect on the stomach. Thus, cardamom aids digestion and relieves gas because it helps stimulate the secretion of digestive juices in the stomach, gallbladder, and salivary glands. Therefore, the best way to aid digestion after a heavy meal is to add cardamom seeds to it or chew them after eating.
Recent studies have confirmed the importance of cardamom as a natural remedy, highlighting its richness in health benefits for various parts of the body.
Cardamom also helps eliminate bad breath by chewing a cardamom pod. According to the German Press Agency (dpa), citing the German Consumer Service Agency, it also plays an important role in treating colds due to its content of two important compounds: borneol and cineole. These substances are considered expectorants, antibacterial agents, and airway openers, and they also stimulate blood circulation.
Another benefit of cardamom is its ability to relieve muscle cramps and improve mood. This is particularly beneficial for women during menstruation or menopause, as noted by the German Institute for Natural Medicine. It's worth mentioning that there are two types of cardamom: green and black, both offering almost the same benefits, though they differ slightly in taste.