Cardamom is a spice native to the Middle East, North Africa, and Scandinavia. There are three types of cardamom; green, black and Madagascar cardamom. Guatemala is the largest producer of cardamom in the world.
1. Cancer Fighter
A recent study found that cardamom contains cancer-fighting compounds that may kill cancer cells. These compounds may stunt new cancer cell growth. An additional study had promising results that found cardamom can regulate gene activity in skin cancer cells and reduce the activity of genes linked to the growth of cancer.
2. Fiber
Cardamom has a high fiber content. 2 Tbsp offers nearly 10 percent of the daily fiber needed by men and almost 15 percent for women. Fiber helps to soften and loosen your stools. Adding more fiber to your diet may help you lost weight by making you feel full faster and fiber can help lower your cholesterol levels.
3. Heart Health
Cardamom is packed with potassium, calcium and magnesium. The mineral potassium is necessary to regularize your heart rate and keep your blood pressure under control. A promising study showed cardamom helps to prevent aggregation and inflammation which reduces the risk of blood clots and strokes.
4. Oral Hygiene
Cardamom is very effective against the harmful bacteria Streptococcus mutans. This bacteria is very well known to colonize our mouth. Streptococcus mutans are a significant contributor to tooth decay. Cardamom enhances salivary secretion, which helps flush out plaque and prevents the growth of bacteria.
5. Improve Your Sex Life
Studies have found that cardamom acts as a tonic and stimulant. Some results have found that cardamom may be useful in helping to treat sexual dysfunctions like premature ejaculation and impotence. This spice contains high levels of cineole, which increases blood flow to the male and female sexual regions which may increase sexual arousal.
