Is This Super Spice The Next Turmeric?
Turmeric has been the go-to spice for years, so much so individuals can order a turmeric latte at countless coffee shops, find it as a supplement at most local pharmacies, or as a ground spice at just about every grocery store there is. Beyond drinking it in a latte or consuming a supplement, turmeric can also be made into curries, smoothies, and countless other dishes. This golden spice has been the focus of many headlines, stating that it fights anything from the flu to depression. However, there is a new spice fighting to take the top spot.
As Medicine
Known as the Queen of Spices, there is nothing subtle about cardamom. With a strong flavor and aroma, hints of mint, smoke, and lemon, it has been widely used in India and surrounding countries for almost five thousand years. This super-spice is a nutritional powerhouse, typically used in the western hemisphere to add flavor to food. However, it is now becoming notorious for its medicinal purposes, including combatting a variety of ailments, counteracting digestive problems, and reducing inflammation in the stomach lining, while calming heartburn and nausea naturally. It also contains high levels of minerals and vitamins such as calcium, magnesium, iron, riboflavin, niacin, and vitamin C, and can freshen breath as well.
In A Refreshing Iced Beverage
Individuals may want to start their summer days with a metabolism-boosting and anti-inflammatory iced tea made with cardamom. Cardamom tea will not just benefit their health, but it also improves the look of skin and hair. Because of the antioxidant and antibacterial properties in the oil of the seeds, it gives skin a lush, glowing look by boosting blood circulation, while strengthening weakened hair strands and protecting the scalp. Since most of the benefits of cardamom come from its oils, boiling the seeds assists in releasing these essential oils. Simply boil water in a pot, add crushed cardamom seeds, cinnamon sticks, and grated ginger for thirty minutes. Remove and let it cool. Add ice cubes, freshly squeezed lemon, and maple syrup for a sweet kick!
