Cardamom is a versatile spice that is used extensively all around the world. Its popularity stems from the essential vital components that boost metabolism and strengthen our immune systems.
What Is Cardamom Oil?
Cardamom essential oil is equally useful as it is beneficial to our health. The essential oil is generally removed from the dried pods of cardamom, which are widely grown in India, and is extracted through the process of steam distillation.
Cardamom seed oil contains a spicy and sweet fragrance that resembles vinegar. It is slightly viscous and pale yellow in color.
Uses and Benefits of Cardamom Oil
The main constituents of cardamom essential oil include nerol, sabinene, pinene, linalyl acetate, myrcene, methyl eugenol, heptacosane and cymene.
Uses of Cardamom Oil
Cardamom essential oil can be used in the following ways:
- Skin toner in cosmetics
- Mouth freshener
- Hair lightening and bleaching treatments
- Flavoring agent in bread, spices, meats and salads
- Aromatherapy
- Culinary spice in many dishes
Benefits of Cardamom Oil
Some of the health benefits of cardamom essential oil are:
1. Boosts metabolism
Cardamom oil has a stimulating effect on the body and triggers the secretions of enzymes, hormones and gastric juices that help increase metabolism. The stimulating impact also combats fatigue and improves your mood.
2. Relieves colds
Cardamom essential oil is considered to be one of the best remedies for the flu and cold. The chemical composition of this oil has healing properties that help relieve chest and nasal congestion. Steam inhalation with a few drops of this essential oil clears the nasal passages and helps you breathe freely.
3. Relieves spasms
Cardamom essential oil contains antispasmodic properties that help relieve muscle cramps and spasms. It helps keep the nerves calm and is often used to treat spasms in asthma and PMS.
4. Prevents microbial infections
Rich in anti-microbial properties, cardamom oil helps fight bacteria and prevent the body from contracting infections. It also prevents the recurrence of flu and viral fever.
5. Promotes healthy digestion
Cardamom essential oil is stomachic in nature. It helps maintain the proper secretion of bile, acids and gastric juices, which in turn promote healthy digestion. It also protects the stomach from contracting external infections.
6. Prevents kidney stones
Kidney stones disrupt the kidneys from carrying out its functions properly. Kidney stones are generally calcified stones made up of calcium and are found circulating in the organ.
Regular usage of cardamom essential oil helps in removing the calcified stones and prevents its re-formation in the future.
7. Diuretic properties
Due to its stimulating effect, cardamom essential oil also acts as a diuretic and increases the frequency and volume of urine output. This frequent urination also helps eliminate toxins and other waste from the body.
8. Warming effect
Cardamom oil is known to have a warming effect on the body. It heats up the body internally, clears congestion and increases sweating. It is also known to provide instant relief from headaches and diarrhea.
Side Effects of Cardamom Oil
When used in the right dosage, cardamom oil can be very beneficial for overall health and is best used when diluted with another oil. Cardamom oil blends well with coconut oil, olive oil, caraway seed oil, clove, cedarwood and cinnamon.
- Cardamom essential oil is advised to be used in a limited amount.
- An overdose of this essential oil can cause gastric irritation and loose bowels.
- Pregnant and nursing women are advised not to use cardamom essential oil.
