Cardamom
Ela | Elettaria cardamomum
This information is for educational purposes only. Consult a qualified practitioner before using any herbal supplement.
Cardamom, the "Queen of Spices," is one of the most prized aromatics in Ayurvedic medicine. It is classified as a tridoshic spice that uniquely combines warming and cooling qualities — warming enough to kindle Agni yet cooling enough not to aggravate Pitta. Cardamom opens the respiratory channels, freshens breath, stimulates digestion, and uplifts the mood. It is traditionally added to coffee and tea to counteract their rajasic (agitating) effects. In Ayurvedic pharmacology, Cardamom is used to enhance the action of other herbs and is a common component of digestive churnas.
Key Benefits
- +Kindles digestion without excess heat
- +Opens respiratory channels
- +Freshens breath
- +Uplifts mood and clarity
- +Counteracts caffeine agitation
- +Tridoshic balancer
Dosha Effects
Vata
Air
Reduces
Pitta
Fire
Reduces
Kapha
Earth
Reduces
Dosage
1-2 pods chewed after meals, or 250-500mg powder in warm beverages
Contraindications
- -Generally very safe in normal doses
- -Gallstones (in very high doses may stimulate bile)
Drug Interactions
- *No significant interactions at culinary doses
Frequently Asked Questions
Why add cardamom to coffee?
In Ayurveda, cardamom is added to coffee to counteract caffeine's rajasic (agitating) effects on the nervous system. It also reduces coffee's acidity and supports digestion of the beverage. This is a traditional Middle Eastern and Ayurvedic practice.
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