## Cardamom: Vietnam’s Treasured Spice with Global Appeal
High Export Value of Cardamom
Cardamom is a precious gift of nature to Vietnam, as only a handful of countries can boast of possessing this plant. In fact, cardamom is predominantly cultivated in Vietnam and China, with only two harvests per year.
Also known as the “trillion-dollar flower,” cardamom is sought after by many countries for its economic value.
According to the Vietnam Pepper Association (VPA), in 2023, Vietnam successfully exported 16,136 tons of cardamom, a 26% increase from 2022, bringing in $83 million to the economy.
Cardamom: Nature’s Gift to Vietnam
Benefits of Cardamom
According to Dr. Le Ngoc Chau from Ho Chi Minh City University of Medicine and Pharmacy – Campus 3, cardamom, commonly known as Bat gac hoi huong or Dai hoi, is actually the dried ripe fruit of the cardamom plant, not a flower as many people assume.
Cardamom is not only a delicious spice but also offers numerous health benefits. Modern medical research suggests that cardamom supports intestinal motility, alleviates bloating, flatulence, and indigestion, while enhancing digestive fluid secretion. Additionally, it stimulates milk production, inhibits harmful fungi and bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, and serves as a flavoring agent in mouthwashes, toothpaste, etc.
In Traditional Medicine, cardamom is known for its sweet and spicy taste, with a warm nature that affects the Can, Thận, Tỳ, and Vị meridians. Cardamom helps warm the body, benefits the spleen and stomach, aids digestion, relieves pain, and treats issues like abdominal pain, borborygmus, diarrhea, vomiting, and joint pain caused by cold.
Cardamom in Traditional Medicine: Warming and Digestive
As per Dr. Chau, cardamom-infused water offers multiple benefits, including:
– High anti-inflammatory properties
– Boosted immunity
– Pain relief and relaxation
– Improved blood circulation
– Reduced joint pain
– Enhanced digestion
– Enhanced flavor in dishes.
The recommended daily intake of cardamom is 3-6g. To prepare cardamom-infused water, boil about 1 liter of water, add 2-3 cardamom pods, simmer for 10 minutes over low heat, then cool and filter the water for consumption.
Recommended Daily Intake: 3-6g of Cardamom
Culinary Medicine with Cardamom
According to Dr. Chau, cardamom can be used in various dishes with medicinal benefits, including:
– Cardamom-infused chicken soup helps reduce cold stomach symptoms, warms the body, and supports the spleen and stomach functions. Use a 1-1.5 kg free-range chicken, simmer with 2-3 cardamom pods, and season to taste. It is best served hot.
– Braised pork belly with cardamom aids digestion and provides essential nutrition. Use 500g of three-layer pork belly, braise with 2-3 cardamom pods, and season to taste.
– Cardamom tea relieves menstrual cramps, reduces bloating and indigestion, and stimulates digestion. Boil 500ml of water, add 2 cardamom pods, infuse for 10 minutes, and sweeten with honey or sugar to taste. Enjoy it warm.
A word of advice from Dr. Chau: While cardamom is highly beneficial, it is a herb, and excessive consumption is not recommended. Especially for those with a yin deficiency and excess yang constitution, it is best to avoid. Pregnant and lactating women should also refrain from consuming large amounts of cardamom to ensure their well-being.
Add these 4 things to your coffee for a delicious and belly fat-busting brew, aiding in natural weight loss
Coffee is a beloved beverage enjoyed by many. Adding these four familiar ingredients to your coffee can help blast away belly fat.
