Cardamom Pods

Elettaria cardamomum

Part Used

Seed

Systems

Respiratory; digestive; circulatory; nervous

Actions

Stimulant; expectorant; carminative (promotes absorption of other herbs); stomachic; diaphoretic; antimicrobial; anti-spasmodic; aromatic; appetite stimulant; anti-inflammatory; antioxidant

Traditional Uses

One of the safest digestive stimulants; cardamom is soothing to the digestive system and indicated for bloating, diarrhea and constipation. Is warming, encourages blood flow to GI tract and stimulating in the cephalic stage of digestion. Used as a gargle for sore throats, to lower heartbeat to a controlled rhythm, and to manage hypertension. May support treatment of urinary tract infections, cystitis, nephritis, and gonorrhea. ^2.