Morning boost: Malabar cardamom's surprising health benefits

Did you know that your morning coffee can become even healthier and more aromatic? Just add a pinch of Malabar cardamom – a spice with remarkable health properties, including anti-cancer effects. Cardamom, known primarily as an addition to Indian and Arabic cuisine, is gaining popularity in kitchens worldwide. But what makes Malabar cardamom so special, and why should you add it to everyday drinks like coffee?

Malabar cardamom is a plant native to India, whose fruits are prized worldwide for their intense, sweet aroma with notes of lemon and eucalyptus. For centuries, it has been used in natural medicine as an anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and antiseptic agent. However, its anti-cancer properties arouse the greatest interest among scientists.

The main active ingredient in cardamom is cardamon, which is responsible for many of its beneficial properties. Research conducted at Florida A&M University has shown that cardamon can inhibit the growth of cancer cells, especially in the case of aggressive breast cancer. The mechanism of action of cardamon involves inducing apoptosis, or programmed cell death, of cancer cells.

How does cardamonin work?

• It inhibits cancer cell growth: Cardamonin blocks the signals that stimulate cancer cells to multiply.
• It induces apoptosis: It causes cancer cells to destroy themselves.
• It reduces inflammation: Chronic inflammation is one of the main factors that promote cancer development. Cardamonin has anti-inflammatory effects, reducing the risk of developing cancer.

Cardamom is available in the form of whole pods, seeds, or powder. You can add it to:

• Coffee: A pinch of cardamom will enrich the taste of morning coffee and provide your body with valuable nutrients.
• Tea: Cardamom pairs well with black, green, and herbal infusions.
• Dishes: You can add cardamom to both sweet and savoury dishes, such as curry, soups, roasts, cakes, and desserts.
• Plant milk: Cardamom will give plant milk an oriental aroma and enrich it with healthy properties.

It's worth reaching for this exotic spice, gaining popularity worldwide. Malabar cardamom can become an integral part of your kitchen, positively affecting health and adding aroma to everyday drinks and dishes.