The foundation of good health begins in your kitchen. In India, spices play a vital role not only in enhancing the overall taste of food but also by providing several health benefits. In fact, drinks made from spices are becoming popular as they promote overall health. From jeera water to methi water, the list of these detox, nutrition-rich drinks is endless. One such spice-infused recipe is cardamom water. Now, if you are a tea lover, you would know how delicious cardamom makes the drink. Also, when you are sick, you must have noticed your mother especially adding cardamom pods to your tea. But have you wondered why? This is because cardamom offers several health benefits. An easy way to imbibe all the goodness of this spice is by drinking cardamom-infused water. It is not only delicious, but it can also improve your overall health. Read on to know how cardamom water can benefit you!
Also read: Green cardamom vs black cardamom: Here’s how to differentiate between the two cardamom varieties
How to Make Cardamom Water
To make cardamom water at home, crush 304 green cardamom pods and add them to boiling water. Lower the flame and let the water boil for about 5-10 minutes. This will allow the cardamom to dissolve well. When the water changes colour, turn off the flame and let it cool. Strain and add a tablespoon of honey to it and enjoy!
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5 health benefits of drinking cardamom water
1. Improves digestive health
Cardamom is known to relieve many digestive problems. According to a 2004 research study published in the Indian Journal of Medical Research, cardamom contains phenolic compounds, volatile oils, and fixed oils that have been used medicinally as a digestive aid for years. These oils can help relieve excess gas, while improving digestive health and providing natural support to the intestines. Cardamom infused water also reduces bloating. So if you drink cardamom infused water every day, you can say goodbye to your digestive problems!
2. Antimicrobial Properties
Cardamom has potential antimicrobial effects that may help you fight infection. A 2008 study published in the journal Molecules found that cardamom essential oil can effectively kill a variety of fungi and bacteria. This may help fight common pathogens, and potentially prevent infection. Therefore, drinking cardamom-infused water every day may strengthen your immune system and increase your body’s ability to fight harmful microbes.
3. Antioxidant activity
According to a 2023 research study published in the journal Molecules, cardamom is rich in bioactive compounds such as terpenes and phenolic compounds that show potent antioxidant properties. These can help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body that can cause oxidative stress. If you drink cardamom-infused water every day, it can contribute to your overall antioxidant intake, help protect your cells and maintain overall good health.
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4. Heart health
Drinking cardamom water may help improve heart health. It may help control blood pressure and improve lipid profiles. Several animal studies have found evidence of cardamom’s health benefits. A 2015 research study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences found that the antioxidant properties of this spice protected rats from heart attacks. Another study published in 2016 in the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture found that cholesterol levels in rats decreased significantly after feeding cardamom. Regular consumption of cardamom water may help maintain healthy blood pressure levels and improve cholesterol balance.
5. Oral health
Many people think that only mint and cinnamon can help freshen their breath, however, cardamom has been used for this purpose for centuries. Not only is cardamom water mildly sweet in taste, but this spice can help fight bacteria in the mouth that usually cause bad breath, cavities, and gum diseases. Since it has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, regular consumption of cardamom water, especially in the morning on an empty stomach, can help prevent cavity development and promote good oral health.
Also read: Adding a pinch of cardamom powder to lassi can give these 5 health benefits
Will you be adding cardamom water to your daily diet? Let us know in the comments below!
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides general information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
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