Cardamom
Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum)
Cardamom is native to India, Indonesia, Nepal and Bhutan. Its use can be traced back to as early as the 4th century BC. Its fruits have been traded for over 1,000 years. It is also the world’s third most expensive spice apart from natural vanilla and saffron.
Cardamom is known to relieve from depression. It also gives clarity of mind and stabilises mood. Cardamom tea improves the mood rapidly. The mood elevating effects of cardamom are poorly studied, so its use in depression is mainly based on anecdotal evidence. The detoxifying effects of cardamom should also benefit the mood.
Cardamom can be used in any form and is available in seeds, powder, oil and teabags. Powdered cardamom can be used for flavouring tea. Use ¼ – ½ teaspoon of powder per cup of boiling hot water. Dried pods can also be used. Steep 2 or 3 pods in hot water for 15 minutes. Cardamom does not have any significant side effects when taken in larger doses.
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