Seeds obtained from the plant Elettaria cardamomum of the family Zingiberaceae are a source of small cardamom or green cardamom. It is also called genuine or true cardamom and is locally known as ‘elaichi’1,2. Cardamom plantations are commercially done in south India, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, and Central America1. Due to its pleasant aroma and flavouring versatility, cardamom is known as the ‘queen of spices and is used in many foods and beverages. It may have several applications as a traditional regional home remedy1. It is one of the world’s most expensive and highly prized spices, ranking third after saffron and vanilla2.
A report by Savan et al. 2013 states that cardamom comprises 67 compounds representing 96.9% of the cardamom oil.
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As per the Indian Ayurvedic system, it has been used to reduce fat deposition in the body and manage skin and urinary problems. Other beneficial properties of the seeds of cardamom are as follows3:
Animal studies have shown the following properties of cardamom:
Did you know that cardamom is a dental marvel? Yes, researchers believe that cardamom might have anti-bacterial properties, and hence its extracts might fight five known bacteria that cause dental caries4.
Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)
Studies may show the benefits of cardamom in various ailments; however, these are insufficient and require more human studies. Some of the potential uses of cardamom are described as follows.
According to a report by Sharma et al. 2011 cardamom extract was studied for its stomach-benefiting activity. It was found that the extract inhibited lesions in an animal model (a region in an organ or tissue that has suffered damage through injury or disease) caused due to the gastric ulcer by nearly 100%2. However this study was conducted on animals, not humans. Therefore, we require more human studies to suggest the benefits of cardamom in managing stomach ulcers.
According to studies, powdered cardamom was found to significantly decrease diastolic blood pressure (blood pressure when the heart muscles relax). It may also enhance fibrinolysis (the natural body process of preventing clot formation by the breakdown of clots) and antioxidant status without drastically changing fibrinogen levels and blood lipids in patients having high blood pressure2. However, this information is insufficient, and we require large scale human trials to provide the benefits of cardamom in humans. Hypertension or high blood pressure is a serious health problem hence, a proper diagnosis and treatment are needed.
Cardamom (Elaichi) seeds may exhibit anti-inflammatory and spasm-relieving properties:
Anti-inflammatory activity: The oil extract of cardamom was studied for its action on rat paw oedema, and a reduction in inflammation was observed2.
Anti-spasmodic activity: According to laboratory studies, cardamom relieved spasms in animal models2. However, this information is insufficient for humans as these studies are done on animals. Thus, more studies on humans are required to back this claim. Therefore, it is essential to first speak to your doctors and only use it if prescribed.
Cardamom oil may act as a natural antioxidant in the body2. Different animal studies give evidence and indicate that cardamom administration may enhance antioxidant defences and inflammatory markers levels. This might suggest the ability of cardamom to suppress oxidative stress and inflammatory processes1. However, more studies on humans are required to suggest the positive effect of cardamom oil in managing human oxidative stress.
Studies on cardamom were conducted to analyse inhibitory activity on human platelets. It was found that cardamom may enhance fibrinolysis activity as well as the blood’s antioxidant status2,3. However, this data is insufficient and requires more research on humans to provide complete knowledge of cardamom involvement in fibrinolysis.
An Ayurvedic formulation called Unmadnashak Ghrita contains cardamom as one of the components. It may possess anticonvulsant activity (managing seizures) and may also exhibit central nervous system depressant activity, which may have calming effects (sedation)2. However, this information requires doctors confirmation. Therefore before using Unmadnashak Ghrita, please consult your doctors.
Cardamom, along with other plants, may be used for managing itching, blisters or pimples on the skin containing pus and enhancing skin complexion2. However, this information requires confirmation from human studies. Therefore, people should never use cardamom to self medicate themselves.
Cardamom seeds may be effective in reducing cigarette addiction. Chewing some cardamom seeds may be safe to minimize the number of cigarettes being smoked, and the chronic addiction to chain smoking may slowly be reduced2. Though there are studies that show the potential uses of cardamom in various conditions, these are insufficient and there is a need for further studies to establish the true extent of the benefits of cardamom on human health.
Discover the ancient secret to soothing swollen eyelids and finding relief! From high blood pressure to cancer, asthma to stomach acidity, let cardamom be your trusted ally on the path to wellness. Cardamom is believed to have anti-inflammatory nature.
Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS
Cardamom (Elaichi) can be used to enhance flavours in both sweet and savoury dishes. It can be used in the form of:
Powdered or whole seeds may be used in spice mixtures, beverages such as tea and coffee, curries, confectionaries, baked foods and meat products3. Flavour and Extract Manufacturers Association approve its use in foods1. You may consult your Ayurvedic physician for the form and dosage. In addition, we advise you to not replace or quit your current medications with any herbal preparations made from cardamom without talking to a physician or an Ayurvedic doctor.
Let’s talk about unveiling the potential of cardamom in snakebite management. While cardamom holds a special place in culinary delights, its potential healing properties extend beyond the kitchen. Cardamom may aid in the treatment of snake bites due to its anti-convulsant property.
Dr. Smita Barode, B.A.M.S, M.S.
US Food and Drug Administration categorizes cardamom as generally recognized as safe1. Some adverse effects of cardamom consumption have been reported in humans. These may include minor reports of the following1:
Other toxic effects of the extracts due to overdose include2:
Therefore, if you experience any of such side effects, seek immediate medical help from your doctor who has prescribed it to you. They will be the best guide for providing proper treatment to overcome side effects.
Also Read: Pancharishta: Uses, Benefits and Side Effects By Dr. Rajeev Singh
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It was determined through a laboratory analysis that α-terpinyl acetate present in cardamom might indirectly inhibit the metabolism of drugs such as bupropion, tamoxifen, propofol, and methadone. Nevertheless, studies on living organisms are yet to be conducted to confirm any possible interference by cardamom with the metabolism of these drugs1. Therefore, we recommend you consult an Ayurvedic physician. They will direct you to the better way to have cardamom as a herb.
Also Read: Jatamansi (Spikenard): Uses, Benefits, Precautions & More!
Small cardamom is also locally known as elaichi. It is popularly called the ‘queen of spices’. This spice is obtained from the seeds of Elettaria cardamomum Maton, a perennial plant.
Yes, in ancient traditional medicines, cardamom was used to manage weight. Some enzymes in cardamom might be responsible for managing heavy weight-related metabolic disorders. However, further studies are required to establish this property of cardamom1. However, it is always better to consult a doctor dietician for weight loss suggestions.
Cardamom may help in relieving stomach discomfort during pregnancy, but more data is required regarding its safe consumption during pregnancy1. It should be taken under the supervision of a doctor.
Gahwa is a beverage consumed in the Middle East. Cardamom with coffee is traditionally used in Gahwa preparation3.
Guatemala is currently the largest producer of cardamom. India ranks second as the largest cardamom producer. International markets consider Indian cardamom to be of top quality2.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
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Clove is an unopened flower bud growing on the tree Syzgium aromaticum, belonging to the family Myrtaceae. Cloves have a deep brown colour and a powerful fragrant odour that is warm, strongly sweet, pungent, and slightly astringent1.
Clove is known by several names like Laung, Lavang, Laumg in Hindi; Lavanga, Lavangaka, Lavangam, Bhadrasriya, Devakusuma, Haricandana, Devapuspa, Varala in Sanskrit; Luvang in Marathi; Lavang in Gujarati; Lavanga in Bengali; Laung in Punjabi; Labanga in Oriya; Laung, Loung in Urdu; Grampu, Karayampu, Karampu in Malayalam; Lavanga, Krambu; Daevakusuma in Kannada; Kaaravallu, Devakusumamu, Lavangalu, Lavangamu in Telugu; Kirampu, Kiraambu, Kirambu, Grambu, Ilavankam in Tamil1.
Clove is considered the symbol of dignity and is a valuable and precious spice of the world. It is commonly used in garam masala, salads, pickles, and biryanis1. Clove is mainly produced in countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, India, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Madagascar. Clove may have several medicinal properties like antioxidant, pain-killing, anti-bacterial and anti-viral2.
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Clove contains the following nutrients (per 100g)1:
Some studies11 suggest that the intake of clove along with ginger may have anti-diabetic properties. Its consumption might help in reducing blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes.
Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)
Clove may show the following properties:
The potential uses of clove are given as follows.
Clove was tested for antimicrobial activities against several fungi and bacterial strains. During lab trials, clove showed bacteria-killing activity against all foodborne pathogens, including E. coli, Bacillus cereus, and Staphylococcus aureus7. Clove oil was found to be efficient against Staphylococcus species. Aspergillus niger (fungi) was highly sensitive to clove oil. Also, clove oil showed germicidal effects against Klebsiella Pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Clostridium perfringens, S. aureus, E. coli, and Candida albicans during a lab study6. It was also found to kill Bacillus tuberculosis efficiently.1 The antimicrobial properties have been observed in lab studies. More trials are required to support clove against infectious diseases in humans. Therefore, do not use clove oil before consulting your healthcare provider.
The clove extract was tested for liver protective activity in an animal model8. The clove extract restored the activity of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine transaminase, and alkaline phosphatase enzymes in serum and therefore showed liver protective activity. However, if you are experiencing any liver problems, consult your healthcare provider before using clove as a remedy.
Clove oil (eugenol) may help clear the respiratory passages and act as an expectorant for managing several upper-respiratory diseases like bronchitis, cough, cold, asthma, and sinus conditions. Clove contains various flavonoids like β-caryophyllene, kaempferol, and rhamnetin that might contribute to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity3. You must talk to your healthcare provider before using clove or its oil for any inflammatory conditions.
Clove and eugenol have shown strong antioxidant properties in trials. Clove has a high capacity to reduce lipid peroxidation and give off hydrogen1. In the database of the United States Department of Agriculture, along with universities and private companies, it is indicated that clove has a higher content of polyphenols and other antioxidant compounds. Clove bud extract may be used as a food antioxidant2. In some studies9, it was observed that kidney functions, liver functions, and antioxidant status were improved with clove use. Before using clove or any herb for its health benefits, you need to contact your healthcare provider and get a proper diagnosis.
The pain-killing effect of clove has been documented since the 13th century. Clove oil might be effective in dealing with joint pain, tooth pain, and spasmodic pain2. Clove oil has been widely used as an analgesic (pain killer) agent in dental clinics as it can relieve toothache. It may suppress inflammatory mediators (leukotriene) and prostaglandin. Also, it is thought to suppress the sensory receptors responsible for signalling pain. You should use clove under the supervision of a healthcare provider or after a doctor’s consultation only.
Clove oil helps deal with bloating and gas. In addition, clove oil may be an effective remedy for stomach-related conditions like motion sickness, nausea, hiccups, and vomiting2,4. If you are suffering from any stomach problems, you should talk to your doctor to come up with a diagnosis. Using herbs or remedies without talking to your doctor can worsen the situation.
Clove oil is believed to stimulate the circulatory system, which might help manage insomnia, anxiety, memory loss, depression, fatigue, and mental exhaustion4. Clove oil was tested for managing depression in an animal model10. It was found to be helpful as it showed an anti-depressant effect. However, do not use clove oil as an alternative to medicinal treatment. If you are suffering from psychological distress, always talk to your doctor or psychiatrist.
Because of the potential antioxidant activity of clove, it is thought to have an anti-cancer effect. It was found to have anti-cancer activity against the skin, lungs, and digestive cancers. The anti-tumour action may be due to the presence of oleanic acid. Also, it has been reported to show anti-cancer activity against colorectal, breast, and leukaemia cancer cells4. Large human-scale studies are required to support the use of clove against cancer in humans. Therefore, you are advised to adhere to the doctor’s treatment and advice for cancer.
Though there are studies showing the benefits of clove in various conditions, these are insufficient and there is a need for further studies to establish the true extent of the benefits of clove on human health.
According to some research12, clove extracts and clove oil might possess inhibitory properties against certain enzymes like acetylcholinesterase, which are responsible for the destruction of certain neurotransmitters like acetylcholine. Such effects of clove extract and clove oil to act as an anti-cholinesterase agent might be beneficial against diseases like Alzheimer’s disease.
Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS
Clove can be used as:
These are used in several dental products like toothpaste, dental creams, throat sprays, and mouthwashes1.
You must consult a qualified doctor before taking cloves or any herbal supplements. Likewise, do not discontinue or replace an ongoing modern medical treatment with an ayurvedic/herbal preparation without consulting a qualified doctor.
The side effects associated with clove use are given below.
Before using clove or any herb for its health benefits, talk to your healthcare provider about the possible side effects associated with its use. It will help you avoid unwanted side effects.
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Here are some general precautions you need to take while using cloves.
Also, before you use clove for any of its benefits on health, talk to your healthcare provider about the possible precautions and limitations of using clove. It will help you make well-informed choices.
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Clove may increase the risk of bleeding or enhance the effects of warfarin therapy.
If you are taking medicines for any disease, talk to your doctor about the possible interactions of medication with other herbs and drugs. It will help you avoid unwanted herb-drug interactions.
Also Read: 15 Amazing Health Benefits of Turmeric Milk!
Clove is an unopened flower bud growing on the Syzgium aromaticum tree.
Yes, clove oil is widely used as a painkiller in dental clinics as it can relieve toothache. However, if you are experiencing tooth pain or dental problems, do reach out to your dentist for a check-up. Using herbal remedies without consulting your dentist first can worsen the condition.
Clove can be used in the form of whole spice, powder or oil. You are advised to talk to a doctor before using cloves for their health effects. He will advise the exact dosage and form of the herb to be taken, as per your condition.
Clove may be suitable for health as it has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It may manage stomach-related diseases (loose motions, flatulence, nausea, indigestion, vomiting, gastric irritability, diarrhoea), respiratory conditions (cold, cough, bronchitis, sinusitis, asthma) and many more. But it must be consumed in the right amount. An overdose can cause side effects too. Side effects include rare allergic reactions, local irritation, contact dermatitis, haemorrhagic pulmonary oedema, bronchitis, pneumonia, occupational allergic contact dermatitis, and central nervous system depression. Therefore, use clove after consulting with a qualified physician only.
Yes, clove might be good for the lungs. Its oil, when inhaled, may soothe cold, cough, bronchitis, sinusitis, and asthma. It may also clear the nasal passage. But lung problems can be severe, and you are advised to contact your healthcare provider and receive a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Yes, clove may help relieve bloating. Clove oil is known to aid digestion and reduce gas pressure in the stomach. However, it should be used only after consulting a healthcare professional.
It is safe for children, but in the right dose/amount. Clove oil in higher doses is a cytotoxin and causes severe acute kidney or liver injury in children. Therefore, please take precautions before giving cloves to children. Do not use cloves for any health issues in children unless recommended by the doctor.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
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