HISTORY
Name: Amomum subulatum is a spice that is native to several regions of Asia, including the eastern Himalayas, Bhutan, and Nepa​
The plant is a member of the ginger family and grows in tropical and subtropical regions.​
Black cardamom has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, including digestive problems, respiratory issues, and dental disorders. It was also used in cooking and as a flavoring for teas and other beverages.
In ancient times, black cardamom was highly valued and was used as a form of currency in some regions. It was also traded along the famous Silk Road, which connected the East and West and facilitated the exchange of goods and ideas.
Today, black cardamom is widely used in cooking and baking, particularly in Indian and Chinese cuisine. It is known for its strong, smoky flavor and aroma, which is quite different from the sweeter, more floral flavor of green cardamom. Black cardamom is often used in savory dishes, such as curries and stews, and is sometimes added to spice blends such as garam masala. It is also used in perfumes and other fragrances due to its unique and distinctive scent.
ACTIVE COMPOUNDS
Terpenes
Black cardamom contains several terpenes, including limonene, terpinene, and cineol, which contribute to its aromatic and medicinal properties.
Essential oils
The essential oil of black cardamom is composed of several compounds, including 1,8-cineole, which has been found to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, and alpha-terpineol, which has potential anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.
Phenolic compounds
Black cardamom contains several phenolic compounds, such as ellagic acid, gallic acid, and quercetin, which have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties.
Alkaloids
Black cardamom also contains alkaloids, such as flavones and flavonoids, which have been found to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
HEALTH BENEFITS
Digestive health
Black cardamom has been found to have gastro-protective properties and may help reduce symptoms of indigestion and improve gut health.
Anti-inflammatory properties
Black cardamom contains compounds that have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of conditions such as arthritis and asthma.
Respiratory health
Some studies have suggested that black cardamom may have beneficial effects on respiratory health, including reducing inflammation and improving lung function.
Blood pressure regulation
Some studies have suggested that black cardamom may have blood pressure-lowering properties, which may be beneficial for people with high blood pressure or at risk of developing high blood pressure.
Antioxidant properties
Black cardamom has been found to have antioxidant properties, which may help protect the body against oxidative damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
CLINICAL STUDIES
Anti-inflammatory effects
A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that black cardamom extract had anti-inflammatory effects in animal models, potentially due to its high content of volatile oils.
Digestive Health
A study published in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine found that a traditional Ayurvedic formulation containing black cardamom had a beneficial effect on digestive health, improving symptoms of bloating, flatulence, and abdominal discomfort.
Cardiovascular Health
A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that black cardamom extract had a positive effect on lipid metabolism and could potentially lower cholesterol levels in animal models.
