The bright, memorable woody taste and aroma of this seasoning is remembered after the first acquaintance. About cardamom This, its useful properties and contraindications, use in cooking and in diets, we will tell in this article.
Description
Cardamom or real cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) - grass native to tropical forests, has constantly green leaves. From one root often go two or three tall stalk. The leaves are wide, elongated. Flowers of irregular shape with white and yellow border, which are collected in a brush-like inflorescence. 
It belongs to the Ginger family. Many small seeds are collected in a fruit-box. Different varieties of plants form different in shape and size of the box. Most often they are oblong, 1-2 cm long. Fruiting lasts up to 15 years.
It is these boxes and go to work.
This spice comes from Asia. Now most of all the plant is grown in China, Sri Lanka, Vietnam. Most often it is used in food in India.
Did you know? According to legend, the first plants of this spice appeared in the mythical hanging gardens of Semiramis in Babylon.
Kinds
The basis for the preparation of spices is cardamom green (real). In addition to it, there are such species: black - so called according to the color of the fruit in which the seeds ripen. They are larger and darker than the seeds of his green fellow. Due to drying near the fire, it has a smoky aroma. These are the most common types:
- tall;
- Javanese;
- Chinese;
- Bengal;
- narrow-leaved
- African.
We advise you to learn about the beneficial properties: cumin, saffron, monarda, nutmeg, ginger, basil and cloves. All of these plants, like cardamom, are also used as seasonings and spices.
Beneficial features
Useful properties of spices due to its composition. These fragrant grains contain from 3 to 8% of essential oils, fatty oil, 10% midone, terpineol, cineole, protein and terpini acetate.
In addition, they contain phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc and vitamins of group B.
Due to its beneficial properties, spice is highly valued, namely:
- recommended for satisfactory digestive system;
- is a natural antidepressant that activates the activity of the brain and central nervous system;
- serves as an analgesic and antiseptic;
- tones and improves blood circulation, strengthens the myocardium and treats for severe headaches;
- helps from cold and cough.
Useful properties for men
In addition to the above useful properties, cardamom has another property that is useful exclusively for men.
Did you know? During the Middle Ages, pharmacists sold cardamom as a panacea for all ills, and the method of its preparation was a great secret.
The plant has a very positive effect on the reproductive function of the male body, increases the potency. This happens due to the content of zinc and essential oils in the grains.
Useful properties for women
Cardamom is also useful for women. Drinks based on it can be used to alleviate the unpleasant symptoms of PMS and to normalize the menstrual cycle.
And also the essential oil of this spice is used in cosmetology for the treatment of acne and wound healing. 
Slimming cardamom
Long ago, the Indians noticed that this seasoning contributes to the loss of excess weight. Since then, this spice is recommended for inclusion in the diet.
Such an action occurs from the ability of the seasoning to stimulate the work of the stomach and intestines, speed up metabolism and eliminate toxins.
Cardamom application
The most popular way to use cardamom is to use it as a spice for drinks and food.
Tea with cardamom. Add 3-4 ground grains to one cup of tea. The drink will be very fragrant and tasty. A special highlight will add a combination of tea with cinnamon. Such a drink will warm in winter, reduce blood glucose and suppress appetite. 
Important! For greater effect, it is recommended to fry cardamom before use.
Coffee. The dosage of seasoning is the same as with tea -3-4 mashed grains per Turk. Add them along with coffee for brewing. Spice will emphasize the pleasant taste and aroma of coffee. In addition, it will reduce the pressure - such a drink will appeal to those coffee lovers who are forced to abandon it because of problems with pressure. 
Milk. Another simple and healing drink. Take 2-3 grains in a glass of milk, boil and enjoy. And if you add a spoonful of honey to the slightly cooled milk, the drink will receive an additional savory taste and will be very useful for colds. 
Use in other dishes
Cardamom is a universal seasoning, so you can add it anywhere, and not only in drinks. For example, in dough or fillings for any baking. Well seasoned with meat, rice, fish.
Contraindications
Despite the fact that cardamom is very useful, it can also cause harm.
Do not eat drinks and food containing this spice, those who suffer from allergies, pregnant and lactating women, people with a stomach ulcer and duodenal ulcer.
Important! The recommended dose of ground seasoning should not exceed ¼ tsp.
Here is such an unusual and useful seasoning, comes from the mythical past. Try to drink coffee with this spice at least once - you will never forget its taste!
