Cardamom/ Elaichi
Here are detailed insights on Cardamom / Elaichi:
General Information
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Botanical Name: Elettaria cardamomum (Green Cardamom)
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Common Names:
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Elaichi (Hindi), Elakkai (Tamil), Yelakkaya (Kannada), Choti Elaichi (Green), Badi Elaichi (Black Cardamom)
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Family: Zingiberaceae (Ginger family)
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Form: Small green pods with aromatic black seeds inside (used whole or ground)
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Flavor & Aroma: Sweet, floral, and mildly spicy with a refreshing fragrance
Culinary Uses
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Widely used in Indian sweets, desserts, and drinks (like chai, kheer, halwa)
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Enhances flavor in biryani, curries, and masala chai
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Common in spice blends like garam masala, chai masala, and Arabic coffee spice
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Used in baking (cakes, cookies) and Middle Eastern cuisine
Health Benefits
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Improves Digestion – Relieves bloating, gas, acidity, and nausea
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Freshens Breath – Natural mouth freshener and antibacterial agent
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Supports Respiratory Health – Helps with asthma, bronchitis, and congestion
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Detoxifies Body – Aids in flushing out toxins through kidneys
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Boosts Heart Health – Regulates blood pressure and improves circulation
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Antioxidant Rich – Fights free radicals and reduces inflammation
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Mood Enhancer – Has mild antidepressant properties; promotes mental clarity
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Aphrodisiac – Traditionally used to enhance libido and vitality
Nutritional Value (per 100g approx.)
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Calories: ~311 kcal
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Protein: 11g
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Fat: 7g
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Carbohydrates: 68g
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Fiber: 28g
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Rich in: Potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, vitamin C, and essential oils like cineole and terpinene
Precautions
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Generally safe in culinary amounts
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Excessive intake may irritate the stomach or gallbladder in sensitive individuals
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People with gallstones should avoid large doses
Home Remedy (Elaichi Chai for Digestion & Freshness)
Ingredients:
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1–2 crushed cardamom pods
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1 cup water or milk tea
Method: Boil with tea or just steep in hot water
Benefits: Improves digestion, freshens breath, uplifts mood
