Mankind knows a lot of spices - the world famous or used only in some countries. Each of them has its own unique taste and flavor. Cardamom, with a strong aroma and is one of the most expensive spices, not for nothing called the king of spices - is one of the most famous spices.

The plant of the ginger family

Cardamom belongs to the ginger family. This shrub about four meters. The fruit in the form of triangular pods harvested immature still. After primary drying of moistened and dried a second time. The output is a white triangular capsule up to one and a half centimeters. In the hammer as cardamom quickly fizzles out, so in order to experience the full flavor of the spices, it is better to buy whole pods. From the pods must remove the grain and then grind them. Of course, it is possible to use the pods themselves, but in this case, the sharpness of the flavor is lost.

Homeland cardamom are India, Sri Lanka and Ceylon. These countries are the main exporters of spices, but also cardamom is found in Central America, Vietnam, Tanzania and Cambodia. It propagated by rhizome pieces, but perhaps seed propagation. This plant loves the heat, so grows only in the south. Some, however, have successfully cultivated cardamom at home.

The cardamom seeds contains about eight percent essential oils, which have a healing effect. The seeds are rich in calcium, magnesium and sodium. Also, they contain iron, potassium, phosphorus, zinc and copper. The structure of spice include B vitamins and ascorbic acid, saturated fatty acids and proteins.

Ode curative properties

The ancient healers attributed healing properties of cardamom. It existed even an opinion that the spices can cure any disease. This spice is characterized by the ability to deal with stress and nervous disorders, copes with depression Depression   and eliminates fatigue. Cardamom has a positive impact on the performance of the brain, relieves headaches Headache   and improves mood, helping to get rid of apathy and lethargy. Chew a small amount of seeds, it is possible to eliminate weakness and fatigue.

Cardamom is an excellent tonic for the body. This is an excellent tool for the treatment of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. The only exceptions are gastric ulcer or duodenal ulcer. Well cardamom struggling with nausea, it can also stop retching (so it is a good idea to apply to pregnant during toxicosis). Spice can help get rid of bad breath, improve appetite and help digestion. People suffering from goiter, must include this spice in your diet. Has expectorant action cardamom has been used successfully for the treatment of bronchitis. It is used for the treatment of pharyngitis and fever.

Less is more

Cardamom - very concentrated spice, has strongly pronounced taste, so it must be consumed in small amounts. The rate of consumption depends on the weight and age of the person. It is recommended to eat at one time no more than a quarter of a teaspoon of crushed seeds.

This spice is also used to treat male impotence. For this purpose, a glass of hot milk with a teaspoon of honey added The benefits of honey: tasty recovery   schepotochku and spices. Drink this drink every night is desirable.

In the countries of the East like to use in the preparation of cardamom coffee. Spice not only gives the drink a unique flavor, but also reduces the negative effect of caffeine on the body, especially the heart and blood vessels. Also it goes well with cardamom and tea liquor.

The slender figure and glowing skin

Experts recommend the use of weight loss cardamom in order to lose weight. Even that cardamom itself contains a lot of calories, it does not prevent him to help in the fight against obesity. Since cardamom is used in minute quantities, its energy value can be neglected. Cardamom accelerates and stimulates the metabolism. Therefore, the burning of calories and fat faster, which in turn contributes to the loss of extra kilos. Even in ancient times Indians have successfully used this spice to fight obesity.

They will address the cardamom and beauticians. The oil is used for cosmetic purposes cardamom, has an antiseptic effect. In addition, it promotes cell renewal, purifies the skin, it is used for inflammation, has deodorizing and tonic properties. It helps fragrant oil, and in the fight against cellulite.

Use in cooking

Yet most often used cardamom in cooking. This spice is in harmony with a variety of dishes, perfectly setting off the taste of the products. Western European chefs add this spice to soups, to rice or potatoes. With this seasoning vegetable dishes acquire noble aroma and a delicate spiciness.

Central Asians like to add cardamom in pilaf. In other countries, cardamom combine with other ingredients for use in the preparation of meat, irrespective of the manner in which the meat is cooked. Improves taste of cardamom and fish dishes. The spice gives the exquisite taste of desserts, in many countries it is used in the preparation of confectionery and baking. It is worth cardamom and marinade.

Before buying cardamom make sure that his boxes are not damaged - the only way they will keep the magic spicy and warm scent. Ground cardamom is best to buy in small quantities and used immediately because this spice is stored poorly.

Maria Bykov

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