Cardamom
Elettaria cardamomum
T Traditional useA ginger-family spice that flavours coffee and desserts. Traditionally used for indigestion and wind; other effects come from small early studies.
Image: Herbadex Botanik Stüdyosu · Özel Üretim
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At a glance
Cardamom is the green pod of Elettaria cardamomum, native to India, and is called "the queen of spices". Its essential oil (1,8-cineole, terpinyl acetate) is traditionally used for indigestion and wind. Small early studies reported favourable effects on blood pressure and inflammation markers; these are not confirmed.
Updated: October 15, 2026
ℹ Compiled from standard pharmacognosy references and clinical literature summaries where no formal EMA monograph exists.
What is it used for?
T Traditional use
Traditional use: Based on at least 30 years of documented traditional use rather than clinical trials.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Traditionally used for indigestion, bloating and wind. [1]
C Laboratory / animal evidence
Laboratory / animal evidence: Based only on laboratory (in vitro) or animal studies; not clinically proven in humans.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Small early studies reported mild favourable effects on blood pressure; not confirmed. [1]
How is it used?
Safety & interactions
- Amounts used as a spice in food are generally safe; this does not apply to concentrated extracts and supplements.
- In people with gallstones, large amounts may trigger biliary colic.
Drug interactions
No recorded interactions
Side effects
- Rarely allergy
⚕ When to see a doctor
- If high fever, shortness of breath or purulent/bloody phlegm develops
- If symptoms do not improve within 1–2 weeks or worsen
- If severe abdominal pain, jaundice, rash or allergic reaction occurs
Did you know?
Cardamom is the world's third most expensive spice, after saffron and vanilla. [1]
Frequently asked questions
Does cardamom help bad breath?
It is traditionally chewed; its aromatic oils can mask bad breath for a while.
How is cardamom used?
Lightly crush the pods and add to coffee, tea or desserts.
Does cardamom lower blood pressure?
Only small early studies reported a mild effect; it does not replace treatment.
Sources
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants (Volumes 1–4)World Health Organization · 2009
- Trease and Evans Pharmacognosy (16th Edition)Elsevier Health Sciences · 2009
Cite This Page
Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum). Herbadex — Doğal Şifa Rehberi (2026). https://herbadex.com/en/herb/cardamom/
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