Cardamom, also known as elaichi, is a spice commonly used in Indian cooking, traditional medicine, and Ayurvedic practices. Known as the “Queen of Spices”, cardamom is famous for its unique taste and intense aroma. It comes in two variants: black and green cardamom. Cardamom has several impressive health benefits. Among these, cardamom’s potential to enhance sexual health is gaining increased attention.

Incorporating cardamom into your daily regimen can be a simple yet effective way to improve your health and well-being.

In this blog, let’s discuss the role of cardamom in one’s sexual well-being.

Nutritional Value Of Cardamom

Cardamom contains several vitamins and minerals, as well as fiber. It is also very low in calories and carbohydrates.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), one tablespoon of ground elaichi contains [1]:

• Total fat: 0.4 grams (g)
• Protein: 0.6 g
• Carbohydrates: 4.0 g
• Calories: 18
• Fiber: 1.6 g

It consists of the following quantities of vitamins and minerals:

• Magnesium: 13.3 mg
• Potassium: 64.9 milligrams (mg)
• Iron: 0.81 mg
• Calcium: 22.2 mg
• Phosphorus: 10.3 mg

Sexual Health Benefits Of Cardamom

Here are the sexual health benefits of cardamom.

Improves Blood Circulation

Cardamom is known to improve blood circulation by promoting the widening of blood vessels. This effect can be attributed to its high potassium content, which is essential for normal blood vessel function. Improved circulation can support stronger erections in men and increased arousal in women.

A narrative review published in Nutrition Today notes that cardamom is used to manage impotence. Impotence, medically termed as erectile dysfunction, is a common sexual health problem among men characterized by the persistent inability to get and maintain an erection firm enough to have sexual intercourse [2].

Cardamom can be a natural way to improve this condition, but in severe cases, ED is managed through medication like Sildenafil. Sildenafil is one of the most commonly prescribed ED medications known for its safety profile and effectiveness. It is also available under an affordable generic brand, such as Cenforce, which takes effect within 30 minutes of intake. Dosage strength, such as Cenforce 100mg oral tablets, is advisable for beginners and for those with mild to moderate symptoms.

Aphrodisiac Properties

Cardamom has been used as a natural aphrodisiac in traditional medicine. A research article published in the International Journal of Environment and Health Sciences stated that cardamom has aphrodisiac properties, which means it can enhance sexual performance, desire, and pleasure.

May boost testosterone in men

Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone. It plays a key role in male sexual function, influencing libido and sperm production.

Preliminary animal studies indicate that cardamom may boost testosterone production and spermatogenesis (production of sperm from the primordial germ cells) by enhancing thyroid gland function [3].

Stress buster

Stress, anxiety, and depression have all been shown to be linked to sexual dysfunction. They can contribute to low arousal, low sexual desire, and low sexual satisfaction in both men and women.

The aromatic compounds present in cardamom have been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system. In Ayurvedic medicine, cardamom has long been used to reduce anxiety, stress, and even mild depression. Some research suggests that inhaling cardamom essential oil or consuming it in warm beverages may help reduce cortisol, the hormone associated with stress [4].

Fight bad breath

Fresh breath can significantly impact intimacy. Cardamom is a traditional remedy for bad breath, which may contribute to a better sexual experience.

It May Be Beneficial For Women With PCOS

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder causing enlarged ovaries with small cysts on the outer surface. PCOS can impact a woman’s intimate life, potentially affecting arousal, desire, lubrication, and orgasm.

According to a study by Negin Elahi et al., consuming green cardamom while following a low-calorie diet may help women with PCOS lose weight, balance their hormones, regulate blood sugar levels, and improve their overall health.

Other Health Benefits of Cardamom

Here are some of the other health benefits of cardamom, supported by scientific evidence [5].

• Cardamom may help reduce blood pressure, most likely due to its antioxidant properties.
• Compounds in cardamom may fight cancer and stop the growth of tumors in mice. Human studies are necessary to validate whether these results also apply to humans.
• Extracts and essential oils of cardamom may be beneficial against various bacterial strains that contribute to fungal infections, stomach issues, and food poisoning.

How To Incorporate Cardamom Into Your Diet

To incorporate cardamom into your diet, you can [6]:

• Use powdered cardamom in baking. Add it as a flavouring agent in cookies, bread, cakes, or other baked goods.
• You can brew cardamom tea. For that, crush a few cardamom pods, boil them in water, and steep to make a tea.
• You can also add cardamom to several savoury dishes. Add crushed cardamom pods or cardamom powder to curries, stews, sauces, or rice dishes for a unique taste.
• Add a pinch of cardamom to your hot chocolate, coffee, or smoothies for an aromatic addition and improve its health benefits.

Note: Remember, even though it is healthy, cardamom has an intense flavour, so it’s crucial to use it in moderation until you adjust to its taste.

If you don’t like the taste or flavour of cardamom, you can also try other natural alternatives, such as pumpkin seeds, to boost your sexual well-being.

Precautions and Considerations

• Cardamom is often considered safe for most individuals and usually causes no adverse effects. However, some people may experience allergic reactions after consuming it, including breathing difficulties and skin rashes.

It can also cause gastrointestinal problems, such as abdominal pain and diarrhea. Large amounts of this spice can also cause a rapid heartbeat and hypertension.

• Cardamom may also interact with several medications, such as, such as blood thinners and drugs that affect the liver. So it’s crucial to consult a doctor before consuming it.
• It is generally not recommended for expectant women to consume cardamom, as it can stimulate the uterus and cause uterine contractions. This could lead to miscarriage, so it is advised to avoid it during pregnancy.
• Breastfeeding women should also exercise caution when consuming cardamom, as compounds in the spice can be passed on to the baby through the breast milk.
• If you experience any unusual adverse effects after consuming cardamom, contact your health care professional immediately [7].

Conclusion

Cardamom is rich in vitamins and minerals, offering numerous health benefits, including those related to sexual health. Cardamom may improve blood circulation, act as a natural aphrodisiac, boost testosterone levels, and reduce stress, all of which contribute to enhanced sexual well-being. It may also support women with PCOS. While generally safe, excessive intake may cause side effects or interact with medications.