Cardamom is mentioned as a medicinal plant in Charaka Samhita. These compilations are said to consolidate medicinal practices that go as far back as the 8th century BC.
Cardamom was used as a tooth cleaner by the Ancient Egyptians.
There is scientific support for some of the medicinal properties of cardamom.
Small cardamom (Elleteria sps) was observed to reduce blood pressure in stage 1 hypertensive individuals. It also helps reduce the tendency of blood clot formation and raises the antioxidant levels in the body (Verma et al. l, 2009). Cardamom extract was seen to inhibit human platelet aggregation (Suneetha et al., 2005). Verma et al. (2010) found Amomum subulatum to be a cardio-adaptogen against physical stress.
The anti-microbial activity of both large and small cardamom plants was observed against microorganisms causing dental caries (Aneja et al., 2011).
Cardamom is widely used for relief in digestion-related ailments. In India, green cardamom is used to treat infections in the teeth and gums.
Additional reading:
- Holy Herbs: Modern Connections to Ancient Plants
- Asian herbs and their wondrous health-giving properties