Cardamom Elettaria cardamomum
Specifics
| Country of Origin: Guatemala | Extraction Method: Steam Distilled |
| Chemical Families: Esters, Oxides | Plant Part: Seeds |
| Aromas: Spicy, Sweet, Warm and Radiant | Cultivation: Unsprayed |
About
Cardamom belongs to the same family as Ginger (Zingiberaceae) and they are both warming oils. In India, Cardamom has been used for centuries as a digestive aid. I have used it on my clients in the suggested cream recipe to relieve gas, nausea, heartburn and diarrhea. It is a wonderful oil for aiding mental concentration (cephalic). Cardamom has a warm, sweet, spicy aroma.
To help alleviate nausea, use on a tissue and inhale, or make the suggested cream and apply to the abdomen.
Reduces damp, congested conditions in the respiratory and digestive systems. When suffering from cold or flu, use to ease chest and head pain from tightness and congestion.
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Therapeutic Properties
- Anti-catarrhal - expectorant, aids mucus secretion
- Antiemetic - reduces incidence and severity of nausea, vomiting
- Antiseptic - assists in fighting germs/infection (respiratory)
- Antispasmodic - relieves spasms and cramps
- Carminative - settles digestion and may assist in preventing gas
- Cephalic - stimulates and clears the mind
- Refreshing/tonic
- Stomachic - stimulates the stomach
- Warming
Emotional and Energetic Qualities
Refreshing, invigoratingSupport nourishment and balancing for ones energy
Invites mental clarity
Brings stability and balance for those who think and worry excessively
Recipe
For Digestive Distress (caused by gas and tension)
4 drops Cardamom
6 drops Roman Chamomile
3 drops Ginger
1 drop Peppermint
Blend in 1 oz. cream or carrier. Massage into abdomen as needed.
References:
1. Battaglia S. The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy. 2nd edition, The International Centre of Holistic Aromatherapy, Australia, 2003
2. Davis P. Aromatherapy an A-Z. New revised edition C.W. Daniel Company Limited, England, 1999
3. Keville, K. Aromatherapy, A Complete Guide to the Healing Art, The Crossing press, USA, 1995
Safety Issues
May be drying on the skin if used often. Use in low dilution when applying to the skin (5-6 drops per ounce of carrier), such as in baths or massage oils.
