Health benefits of cardamom

Updated on 14 Dec 2025

Cardamom might seem like just another spice in your kitchen, but it offers much more than flavour. Known as Elaichi in India, these small green pods are packed with health benefits, including controlling blood pressure, regulating insulin levels and preventing ulcers.

It was first discovered in India and is now used worldwide in both sweet and savoury foods. Its seeds, oils and extracts have also been used in traditional medicine for many years. In this blog, we explore how incorporating cardamom into your diet can support your overall health.

What are the benefits of cardamom?

Due to cardamom's rich nutrient profile, it offers a multitude of benefits:

1. Controls blood pressure

Cardamom potentially lowers blood pressure through its anti-inflammatory properties. The presence of antioxidants in cardamom safeguards cells and tissues from free radical damage. These harmful substances, arising within the body, induce oxidative stress. Moreover, it exerts diuretic effects, whose influence contributes to higher urine production and salt excretion from the body. This can help reduce fluid retention and lower blood pressure.

2. May fight cancer

Phytochemicals in cardamom are natural substances with biological effects on the body. Notably, a select few, like indole-3-carbinol, limonene and eugenol, have demonstrated anti-cancer properties.

3. Beneficial for diabetics

By modulating lipid and glucose absorption, cardamom potentially improves certain biomarkers that signal inflammation and disease in individuals with metabolic syndrome or diabetes. It helps reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels, normalises blood sugar levels and lowers triglycerides, making weight management more effective.

4. Regulates insulin levels

Additionally, cardamom potentially enhances the secretion and sensitivity of insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. This makes the consumption of cardamom beneficial for people with diabetes.

5. Prevent ulcers

Ulcers are sores in the tummy lining or intestines that can cause pain, bleeding and infection. They are caused by Helicobacter pylori bacteria, which can damage the mucus protective layer covering the stomach and intestines. Cardamom may help prevent ulcers by inhibiting bacterial growth. It contains terpenoids, such as cineole, pinene and limonene, which have antibacterial properties and can kill or inhibit the growth of H. pylori and other harmful bacteria that can cause ulcers.

6. Combats bad breath

Cardamom’s antimicrobial properties fight against bacteria in your mouth, combating bad breath effectively. Chewing cardamom can be a simple and natural way to maintain oral hygiene.

Nutritional facts of cardamom

Cardamom is low in calories and carbs. It provides vitamins, minerals and fibre. A 100-gram serving (about 50-60 pods) contains:

Is it good to eat cardamom every day?

Eating cardamom daily is generally safe when done in moderation. Its antioxidants and digestive benefits support overall health, but consuming too much can cause issues. One to two pods a day is usually enough.

People with food allergies, low blood pressure or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional before including it in their daily routine, especially if taking medication.

Conclusion

Cardamom is a versatile spice that not only enhances the flavour of your meals but also supports overall health. A healthy diet helps prevent disease, but medical emergencies can still arise. Having a reliable health insurance plan ensures you can access timely care without financial strain.

Choosing family health insurance extends this protection to your entire household, giving peace of mind for all your loved ones. If you need help choosing a plan, please fill out the form on this page.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.