Cardamon Decort
Elettaria cardamomum
Also known as bastard cardamom, Malabar cardamom and Elettaria cardamomum, are commonly used to flavor coffee, curry blends and Scandinavian breads.
History: In India Cardamom was known as the "Queen of spices" to black pepper's title as the "King of spices". Also in India, during the 11th century, it was listed as one of the ingredients in the "Five fragrance betel chew" in the Book of Splendour. Cardamom oil is used to flavor pharmaceuticals, and as a fragrance in soaps, detergents, perfumes and other body care products. Cardamom is is well known for relief of nausea, especially morning sickness in pregnancy. Cardamom strengthens digestion and kills the bacteria responsible for bad breath, making it an excellent after dinner tea. Cardamom also can help clear congestion from colds, flu and allergies. Second only to lemon, Cardamom is perhaps the best source of a phytochemical called cineole, which calms your nerves and clears your head.