Herb Notes: The Benefits of Cardamom

Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) is a sweet, warming spice used in Ayurvedic medicine and beloved in kitchens around the world. It’s treasured in herbal medicine for its aromatic, stimulating gifts.

Let’s dive into three gifts of cardamom…

1. Cardamom for Digestive Health

Cardamom is a classic carminative, meaning it helps ease gas, bloating, and digestive stagnation. Its warming, aromatic nature stimulates digestion, supports healthy movement in the gut, and can relieve feelings of heaviness after meals. Cardamom is especially helpful when digestion feels sluggish or cold. One of the simplest ways to work with cardamom is to cook with it—adding a pinch to teas, porridges, or meals. You can work with the pods (decocting them in teas or adding them to soups) or with the cardamom seeds directly. Ground cardamom is also a lovely culinary addition.

2. Cardamom for Upper Respiratory Infections

Cardamom is both antimicrobial and an expectorant, making it a wonderful ally during colds and respiratory infections. It can help fight microbes, soothe sore throats, and calm coughing. It’s especially comforting when paired with warm teas or honey.

3. Cardamom for Circulation

As a warming circulatory stimulant, cardamom helps increase circulation from the core to the extremities. It gently warms the body and supports healthy blood flow. This warming quality also contributes to cardamom’s digestive and respiratory benefits.

Cardamom Contraindications

Avoid use of cardamom in cases of biliary obstruction and severe liver disorders. Cardamom is contraindicated for ulcers, excessive heat signs, and aggravated pitta. Safety has not been conclusively established for use during pregnancy and lactation.¹

Want to Learn More About Other Common Herbs' Benefits?

Now that you've learned a little bit about the health benefits of cardamom, you might be wondering how you can learn more about the medicinal properties of other common plants.

Well, here’s the easy way to get more info about some of our favorite herbs: download a FREE deck of our top 12 Herb Notes here. You’ll learn all about the medicinal properties of common herbs like elderberry, dandelion, and more.

Here are some frequently asked questions about cardamom...

How can I use cardamom?

Cardamom is incredibly versatile. You can add it to chai, golden milk, baked goods, stewed fruit, or savory dishes. It’s also lovely in digestive teas, honey infusions, or gently crushed and steeped on its own for a simple aromatic brew.

Is cardamom warming?

Yes, cardamom is considered a warming herb. While it’s gentler than many other spices, its warmth supports digestion, circulation, and respiratory health. As always, moderation is key, especially for those with signs of excess heat.

Written by Tara Ruth

Tara Ruth is an herbalist and the Communications Director at LearningHerbs. She graduated from the California School of Herbal Studies’ Community Herbalist Program and is a total herb nerd. Tara is passionate about teaching folks how to become confident home herbalists. In her free time, you can find Tara hiking in the forest and waving to all the plants along the way.

Footnotes

1. Sinadinos, Christa “Cardamom Monograph.” HerbMentor. Accessed January 7th, 2025. https://learningherbs.com/herbmentor/  https://learningherbs.com/herbmentor/