By Botanical name
Elettaria cardamomum
Cardamom is known as the “Queen of Spices,” In India, it is commonly known as ‘Elaichi‘, which is the most expensive spice. Cardamom is rich in verities of active ingredients such as aromas and antioxidant which has a health benefit. Elaichi is a trendy spice among any others. Other than spice, Elaichi is considered a herb, and it was the main ingredients in Ayurveda during ancient times. Elaichi is used for treating mouth infections, gastrointestinal disorders, congestion of the chest, throat problems, and an antidote for poison. Due to Elachi’s dual role, it is considered into the diet for overall health.
Table of Contents
Sources of Elaichi
Literature is indicating that the first reference to Elaichi is found in the Ayurvedic literature of India. Elaichi is majorly grown in countries like Tanzania, Guatemala, and Malaysia. Elaichi was firstly cultivated by the German coffee planter who introduced Indian Elaichi and its cultivation in Guatemala before World War I. That is why Guatemala is the biggest producer and exporter of Elaichi globally, which India follows.
Other Names for Elaichi
There are different names of Elaichi depending on regional languages in India.
- In Hindi, it is known as Elaichi.
- In English, it is known as Cardamom.
- In Sanskrit, it is known as Ela.
- In Kannada, it is known as Elakki.
- In Marathi, it is known as Velachi.
- In Tamil, it is known as Elakkay.
- In Telugu, it is known as Elakulu.
Chemical compounds in Elaichi
The proximate composition of 100 grams of Elaichi is given below:
- Protein: 11 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Total carbohydrates: 68 g
- Total Fat: 7 g
- Total calories: 311 kcal
Other than proximate ingredients, Elaichi also contains vitamins (vitamin A and vitamin C) and minerals (iron, magnesium, manganese, copper, potassium, calcium, zinc, and phosphorus).
Health benefits of Elaichi
Elaichi and Digestion
”‹Elaichi seeds are a rich source of fibres that helps to resolve the problems related to the digestive systems. The consumption of Elaichi regularly helps to avoid issues like combat nausea, acidity, gas, bloating, loss of appetite, constipation, and heartburn. A cup of Elaichi flavored tea help to keep the stomach calm.
Elaichi helps in Detoxifying the Body
Elaichi contains a mixture of antioxidant compounds, which helps to eliminate the waste through the kidneys. It is particularly beneficial for individuals who want to relieve the chemicals and toxins from their body to enhance the weight and fat loss process.
Elaichi and Bad Breath or Halitosis
Elaichi has a unique flavouring compound; therefore, it is used for the preparation of mouth freshener. Chewing of Elaichi after meals can help freshen up the breath.
Elaichi and its Diuretic nature
Elaichi is not only a detoxifier but also a good diuretic agent. It helps clean out the bladder, kidneys, urinary tract, remove waste, excess water, salt, and combat infections and toxins.
Elaichi and Depression
Elaichi contains an antidepressant quality, and this area of research is not yet explored. Still, from the Ayurveda point of view, a cup of Elaichi flavoured tea helps fight depression. Elaichi tea also helps in manipulating the moods of individuals. The taste and flavour of Elaichi help calm the senses.
Elaichi and Oral Health
Elaichi helps in relieving mouth ulcers, sore throats, and mouth infections. The seeds of Elaichi showed an improvement in oral health because of their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Research showed that the Elaichi extracts are very effective in disrupting bacteria responsible for gum disease and its infections.
Elaichi and Cold/Flu management
Elaichi is known as an aromatic spice that helps in the prevention and relief from cold and flu symptoms. The decoction of Elaichi is also effective for treating coughs and bronchitis. Elaichi extract is also rich in antibacterial compounds, which helps to fight bacterial infections. The hot drink of Elaichi is always good for getting a soothing effect on a sore throat, which also helps suppress coughing.
Elaichi and Cancer
Elaichi extracts and decoction contain essential antioxidants that help quench and fight the free radicals produced in the body during stressful situations. There are animal studies that showed promising results that Elaichi helps protecting against some cancers.
Elaichi and High Blood Pressure
The regular intake of Elaichi in the diet helps regulate high blood pressure because of its diuretic effect. Elaichi extract is rich in antioxidants, and this helps detoxify the blood and promoting frequent urination.
Elaichi and Prevention of Blood Clots
Elaichi helps in reducing the chances of blood clots as it helps prevent aggregation of platelet and sticking to the artery walls. This specific mechanism is very beneficial for controlling blood clotting.
Elaich is a good source of an Antioxidants
Elaichi contains different vitamins, phytonutrients, and an important component, essential oils, including other antioxidants that help scavenge free radicals, which further resists cellular ageing. The reduction of free radical in the body is directly related to maintaining blood sugar, cholesterol levels, and blood pressure, which helps improve overall health.
Elaichi and Post-Surgery Recovery
It is very well known that hours after surgery are filled with dizziness and disorientation. Elaichi decoction, when combined with lemon, ginger, and lavender, is very helpful in relaxing the mind, clearing the head, and beat nausea.
Recommended Dosage of Elaichi
The ayurvedic dosage of Elaichi varies according to its variants of different forms of Elaichi products.
| Product | Preparation | Dosage/ Day |
| Seed powder | Take 1/4th teaspoon of Elaichi powder and mix it with water or honey. | Two times |
| Essential oil | Take a few drops of Elaichi essential oil and mix it with mustard or olive oil. It is used for massage purpose in joint pain. | – |
Side effects and Precautions While Using Elaichi
- It is recommended that not take Elaichi during breastfeeding, and the proper consultation from medical practitioners is required before its use.
- It is recommended not to take Elaichi during pregnancy, and proper consultation from medical practitioners is required before its use.
FAQs
Is Elaichi good for heart health?
Yes, Elaichi extract and supplements are beneficial in reducing the risk of heart diseases. Elaichi extract contains an antioxidant that helps lower the bad cholesterol levels and increases the level of good cholesterol in the body. The antioxidant Elaichi helps to fight against the free radicals and thereby prevents heart cell damage.
Is Elaichi good for diabetes?
Yes, Elaichi is very useful during diabetes because of its anti-diabetic property. The phenolic compounds of Elaichi help reduce oxidative stress, which prevents damage of pancreatic cells to reduce insulin resistance. The whole mechanism is very effective in managing blood glucose levels. Elaichi consumption resists the starch breakdown to control blood sugar levels.
Is Elaichi consumption beneficial in gastric ulcer?
Yes, Elaichi is beneficial in reducing the chances of gastric ulcer because of its gastroprotective properties. The polyphenols in Elaichi extracts helps to decrease gastric damage by improving the gastric system functioning through increasing the mucous secretion on gastric mucosal cells.
Summary
Elaichi is an integrated part of different food preparation. Elaichi has long-term health benefits due to its potent medicinal properties. As per Ayurveda, Elaichi extract or products helps treat digestive problems, mouth ulcers and depression.
Read more about: 8 Effective Herbs To Lower Blood Sugar Levels!
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