Badi elaichi (black cardamom) benefits and side effects

Eating black cardamom is said to normalize the flow of mucous through the respiratory tract. It can help people suffering from asthma and other respiratory problems such as whooping cough, tuberculosis and bronchitis. It is even said to provide relief from sore throat. Black cardamom is also used to keep cold and cough at bay.

Black cardamom consumption is good to keep the skin healthy. It is an antioxidant and also has antibacterial properties. It is also full of vitamin C, which is essential for the synthesis of collagen—a protein that makes our skin supple and elastic. This combination of elements helps black cardamom in facilitating the removal of toxins from the body while also boosting blood circulation.

Black cardamom, if taken regularly, can keep the heart healthy. It keeps the heart rhythm in check, maintaining the blood pressure by extension. It is also known to reduce the probability of blood clots. (Read more: Pulmonary embolism: symptoms, causes)

A small study with 30 males aged 50-70 with a history of ischaemic heart disease showed that powdered badi elaichi intake could reduce blood lipid levels within 12 weeks, without affecting the levels of good cholesterol or high-density lipoprotein. (Read more: What to eat when you have high cholesterol)

More studies need to be done to study the effects of badi elaichi on blood lipids.

Other researchers have looked into the adaptogen (protects against the harmful effects of stress) and anti-inflammatory potential of badi elaichi, which could also contribute to better heart health. More studies need to be done to establish these effects of black cardamom.

Black cardamom is known to provide relief from chronic constipation. It is also used as a home remedy for stomach ache and heartburn. It stimulates the gastric glands for the secretion of digestive juices and controls the acid in the stomach, thereby protecting against stomach ulcers. 

Black cardamom also increases appetite. (Read more: Loss of appetite: symptoms, causes, tips and treatment)

One of the most common causes of hair loss is an unhealthy scalp. Black cardamom’s antibacterial properties keep the scalp healthy by preventing infections. Its antioxidant properties and organic compounds also provide the nourishment that hair needs to look shiny. Essential oils extracted from the same also help prevent dandruff.

Black cardamom has a very strong and distinct aroma. It can help in warding off oral health problems such as bad breath. It also protects the gums against infections. (Read more: Swollen gums)

Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, black cardamom can provide relief in case of muscle soreness. You can mix it with warm bath water, but the best way to use it as an analgesic (painkiller) would be to apply it in the form of essential oil. (Read more: Body pain)

There is some evidence to show that the antioxidant and antibacterial properties of black cardamom boost the overall immunity of the body. Regular consumption of this spice in your diet can provide the body support in fighting against foreign pathogens. (Read more: How to increase immunity)