Cardamom essential oil is extracted from the seeds of cardamom, a spice used around the world. The oil boasts the ability to reduce spasms and nausea, while working as an antiseptic, antimicrobial, astringent, stimulant and diuretic substance. Cardamom oil contains numerous healing compounds, including limonene, terpinene, eugenol, cineol, alpha-terpineol and linalyl acetate. These compounds are responsible for the oil’s powerful healing properties. Cardamom oil can be used at home to help provide relief from several health conditions, including congestion, digestive problems, headaches and the common cold.
Cardamom Essential Oil Health Benefits
1. Relives Spasms
Cardamom essential oil has natural antispasmodic properties. It can help provide natural relief from painful muscle pulls, muscle cramps and muscle spasms. The oil can also help provide relief from painful symptoms associated along with asthma and cough.
2. Prevents Microbial Infections
The strong antiseptic and antimicrobial properties of cardamom essential oil can help prevent microbial infections. Add a few drops of the oil to water and use it as a mouthwash to disinfect the oral cavity. (1)
3. Improves Digestion
Cardamom essential oil has the ability to boost digestion by stimulating the digestive system. It works to keep the stomach health and functioning properly, by maintaining the proper secretion of gastric juices, acids and bile in the stomach. (2)
4. Boosts Metabolism
The stimulating properties of cardamom essential oil can help give the metabolism a natural boost. The oil works to stimulate the secretion of various enzymes and hormones, boosting circulation and regulating proper metabolic function.
5. Promotes Urination
Cardamom essential oil has diuretic properties that increase the frequency of urination. Working as a diuretic, cardamom oil can help promote weight loss, lower blood pressure levels and remove toxins from the kidneys. (3)
6. Provides a Warming Effect
Cardamom oil provides the body with a natural warming effect. The oil works by heating up the body to promote sweating, clear up congestion and coughs and relieve painful and irritating symptoms associated with the common cold. The warming properties of cardamom oil can also help provide relief from headaches.
7. Boosts Libido
Cardamom essential oil can be used as a natural remedy to boost libido. The oil has arousing effects that can help combat sexual problems. Sexual problems that may be remedied by cardamom oil include impotence, loss of libido, frigidity and problems with erectile dysfunction.
Caution: While no toxic effects are known from consuming cardamom oil, taking excessive amounts may result in an overdose. Ingesting excess amounts of cardamom oil can cause the body to overheat, resulting in loose bowels, irritation and painful digestive system symptoms. Pregnant women and women who are lactating should not ingest cardamom oil. The oil may potentially lead to irritation and other adverse effects due to its known warming effects.