Cardamom, often referred to as the “Queen of Spices,” has been used for centuries in traditional medicine due to its potent therapeutic properties. Drinking cardamom water first thing in the morning on an empty stomach can confer multiple health benefits. Here’s a look at the top seven surprising benefits of this practice, along with a simple recipe to make cardamom water.
7 Surprising Benefits of Drinking Cardamom Water
- Enhances Digestive Health Cardamom is known for its ability to increase bile secretion and promote digestion. Drinking cardamom water can help prevent common digestive issues such as bloating, acid reflux, and constipation.
- Detoxification Cardamom has diuretic properties, which can help in detoxifying the body and flushing out toxins through the kidneys. This promotes urinary health and can prevent the buildup of waste inside the body.
- Boosts Metabolism The natural compounds in cardamom can help increase the rate of metabolism. This is beneficial for burning calories more effectively, which can aid in weight loss efforts.
- Improves Oral Health Cardamom is effective in fighting common mouth bacteria, which can help reduce bad breath and prevent cavities. Drinking cardamom water is an easy way to maintain oral hygiene naturally.
- Rich in Antioxidants Cardamom contains powerful antioxidants that help in combating free radicals in the body. This can reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
- Lowers Blood Pressure Due to its diuretic effect and high potassium content, cardamom can help lower blood pressure levels, which is beneficial for heart health.
- Respiratory Relief Cardamom is also beneficial for those suffering from respiratory issues. It helps in relieving congestion and promotes the clearing of airways, which can be beneficial for individuals with asthma or colds.
How to Make Cardamom Water
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon of crushed cardamom pods
- 1 cup of water
Instructions:
- Crush the Cardamom: Using a mortar and pestle, gently crush the cardamom pods to release their flavor and oils. You don’t need to grind them into a powder; just crack them open.
- Boil Water: Heat water in a saucepan and bring it to a boil.
- Infuse Cardamom: Add the crushed cardamom pods to the boiling water and let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes. The longer you simmer, the stronger the flavor.
- Cool and Strain: Allow the water to cool down to a drinkable temperature and then strain out the cardamom pods.
- Drink on an Empty Stomach: Consume this cardamom water first thing in the morning on an empty stomach to maximize its health benefits.
Tips for Best Results
- Consistency: For the best results, make drinking cardamom water a regular part of your morning routine.
- Freshness: Always use fresh cardamom pods instead of pre-ground cardamom for maximum flavor and health benefits.
Drinking cardamom water on an empty stomach can serve as a simple yet effective way to enhance your overall health and well-being. As with any dietary change, if you have any specific health conditions or concerns, it’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider.
