Cardamom is a spice that is commonly used in cooking and has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. It is derived from the seeds of the plant Elettaria cardamomum, which is native to southern India and Sri Lanka. In this article, we will discuss the nutritional value of cardamom per 100g and whether it is healthy for you.
The nutritional value of cardamom per 100g is as follows:
Energy: 305 kcal
Protein: 9.89 g
Total lipid (fat): 6.1 g
Carbohydrate: 64.97 g
Fiber: 16 g
Sugars: 3.2 g
Calcium: 740 mg
Iron: 16.2 mg
Magnesium: 356 mg
Phosphorus: 264 mg
Potassium: 1360 mg
Sodium: 42 mg
Zinc: 2.15 mg
Vitamin C: 12 mg
Vitamin A: 0 IU
Vitamin E: 1.3 mg
Vitamin K: 0.2 mcg
Vitamin B6: 0.26 mg
Vitamin B12: 0 mcg
Vitamin D: 0 IU
Vitamin B9: 0 mcg
As we can see, cardamom is a good source of fiber, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc. It also contains small amounts of vitamins C, A, E, K, B6, B12, D and B9.
Cardamom has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes, and scientific research has shown that it has anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-oxidant, anti-bacterial, and anti-spasmodic properties. It is also used as a carminative, which means it helps to relieve gas and bloating in the stomach and intestines.
Cardamom has been used to treat a variety of health conditions such as respiratory problems, digestive issues, and urinary tract infections. It has also been found to have potential benefits in reducing the risk of certain types of cancer, such as colon cancer and lung cancer.
One study found that cardamom was effective in reducing the size of tumors in mice with colon cancer. Another study found that cardamom reduced the growth of lung cancer cells in a laboratory setting.
Cardamom has also been found to have a positive effect on heart health. A study found that consuming cardamom powder for 12 weeks lowered total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels in people with high cholesterol.
Another study found that consuming cardamom powder for 4 weeks reduced blood pressure in people with hypertension.
Cardamom is also commonly used to treat bad breath and oral health issues. A study found that cardamom oil was effective in reducing the growth of bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease.
In conclusion, cardamom is a spice that is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional value and medicinal properties. It is a good source of fiber, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc and has anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-oxidant, anti-bacterial, and anti-spasmodic properties. It is also been found to have potential benefits in reducing the risk of certain types of cancer, such as colon cancer and lung cancer, and has a positive effect on heart health and oral health. While consuming moderate amount of cardamom is considered to be healthy, excessive consumption may cause some side effects and as always, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional before adding it to your diet.