Spices · Spice
Cardamom
Elettaria cardamomum · also called Green cardamom, true cardamom, cardamomo (Spanish)
Cardamom is the seed of a plant in the ginger family, used whole or ground to flavour food and drinks. Small trials of cardamom powder and capsules found lower triglycerides and inflammation markers, but these were supplements, not cooking amounts, and the evidence is weak. The main cautions are gallstones, pregnancy and breastfeeding (keep to food amounts), and allergy.
General information, not medical advice. Last substantive update · Not medically reviewed. A named clinician has not signed off on this page. How this page is made
About Cardamom
Cardamom is a fragrant spice, not a proven remedy. Trials are small and used supplements. Keep to food amounts if you have gallstones or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
What it is
Green cardamom is the seed of Elettaria cardamomum, a plant in the ginger family (GBIF). The seeds are used whole or ground in food and drinks. Black cardamom (Amomum subulatum) is a different plant.
USDA data for ground cardamom: 311 kcal per 100 g. One teaspoon (2.0 g) provides about 6 kcal, 0.6 g fibre, 8 mg calcium, 0.3 mg iron, 22 mg potassium and 0.6 mg manganese. A teaspoon is mostly flavour, so we do not call cardamom a good source of any nutrient.
What the research shows
A 2024 review of 12 trials (989 adults) found lower triglycerides, total cholesterol, hs-CRP and interleukin-6 with cardamom supplements. A 2020 review of 5 trials found lower triglycerides only. Neither found a clear change in LDL or HDL.
A pooling of 8 studies reported tiny falls in blood pressure, and the biggest single trial (204 adults with diabetes) found none. One trial each suggested better blood sugar markers and fatty liver grade.
The nausea trials used essential oil, and the digestion claim is traditional use only. No trial used cardamom as an ordinary cooking spice.
Spice versus supplements and oil
The trials used powder, capsules or extract, and the nausea trials used essential oil. Results for those do not carry over to cooking amounts, and oil results do not carry over to the spice.
Amounts
This page gives no amounts to eat or take. Ask a doctor, pharmacist or dietitian what is right for you, especially if you have gallstones, take diabetes medicine or are pregnant.
At a glance
Traditional uses history, not proof
- Used as a spice in food, tea and coffee
- Used in traditional medicine for digestion and after childbirth
- Long use is not proof that it treats any condition
Studied for research
- Triglycerides, low certainty, supplement trials (cholesterol results mixed)
- Inflammation markers (hs-CRP, IL-6), low certainty, supplement trials
- Blood pressure, very low certainty (tiny change, one trial found none)
- Blood sugar in type 2 diabetes, very low certainty, one small trial
- Fatty liver, very low certainty, one trial
- Nausea after surgery, very low certainty, essential oil not food
- Digestive complaints, insufficient evidence
Main compounds
- Alpha-terpinyl acetate
- 1,8-Cineole (eucalyptol)
- Linalool
- Limonene
- Manganese
Common forms
- Whole pods and loose seeds as a spice
- Ground cardamom in cooking and drinks
- Capsules or powder (used in the trials)
- Extracts
- Essential oil (concentrated; not a food)
Research links: 2024 review: cardamom and heart-health blood markers · 2020 review: cardamom and blood fats · RxList: Cardamom · Research Library · Genes & Biomarkers Library
What it is and its history
- Accepted scientific name
- Elettaria cardamomum
- Naming authority
- (L.) Maton (GBIF accepted)
- Common names
- Cardamom (English); Green cardamom (English); True cardamom (English); Malabar cardamom (English); Cardamomo (Spanish); Elaichi (Hindi)
- Family or group
- Zingiberaceae (the ginger family), as given by GBIF.
- Classification
- Plantae > Tracheophyta > Liliopsida > Zingiberales > Zingiberaceae > Elettaria > Elettaria cardamomum
- Native range
- Not verified from a source read.
- Habitat
- Not verified from a source read.
- What it looks like
- Roots: Not verified.; Stems: Not verified.; Leaves: Not verified.; Flowers: Not verified.; Fruit: The seed is the spice. USDA gives household portions of 2.0 g for one teaspoon and 5.8 g for one tablespoon of ground cardamom.
- Cultivation
- Not verified from a source read.
- Harvest and processing
- Sold as whole pods, loose seeds and ground spice (existing nutrient summary); also as capsules, extracts and essential oil in trials.
- Look-alikes and adulterants
- Name: Black cardamom (Amomum subulatum); Note: A different accepted species in GBIF (key 5301632), in the same family. Studies of "black cardamom" are about this plant and are not assumed to apply to green cardamom.; Name: Cardamom oil and cardamom tea; Note: Concentrated oil and tea are different products with their own pages; trial results for oil do not carry over to the spice.
- Sustainability and conservation
- Not assessed.
Photographs
Traditional use and history history, not clinical proof
| Tradition or era | Documented use | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Used as a postpartum tonic, with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity attributed to its 1,8-cineole content (LactMed record). | p40460231 | |
| Used during breastfeeding for infant colic and to increase milk supply as part of an herbal mixture (LactMed record). | p40460231 | |
| Used for digestive problems, colds and coughs and loss of appetite (RxList overview); evidence insufficient to rate. | s-rxlist-cardamom | |
| Origin and early trade history was not read from a source, so none is stated. |
Traditional use shows how it was used. It does not show that it works or is safe today.
What is inside, and how it may work
What it contains and how those compounds act in cells and animals. Laboratory and animal mechanisms are not proven effects in people.
Main compounds
| Compound | Family | Where it is concentrated | Activity studied | Level of evidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpha-terpinyl acetate PubChem 111037 | monoterpene ester | Seed oil Main compound in the oil in the 2026 study and in the LactMed summary | Aroma compound; no effect in people shown. 7 1 | Laboratory research |
| 1,8-Cineole (eucalyptol) PubChem 2758 | monoterpene | Seed oil Second main compound in the LactMed summary | Gives the cool, eucalyptus-like note; antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity is attributed to it in the LactMed record, not shown in people. 1 16 | Laboratory research |
| Linalool PubChem 6549 | monoterpene | Seed oil Listed among lower-amount compounds in LactMed | Aroma compound; no effect in people shown. 1 16 | Laboratory research |
| Limonene PubChem 22311 | monoterpene | Seed oil Listed among lower-amount compounds in LactMed | Aroma compound; no effect in people shown. 1 | Laboratory research |
| Manganese PubChem 23930 | mineral | Seed USDA: 28 mg per 100 g ground (about 0.56 mg per teaspoon) | Essential trace mineral; a teaspoon of spice is a small portion. 20 | Human data |
Mechanisms, receptors and pathways
| Target or pathway | Gene or receptor | What was found | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alpha-amylase and inflammation tests | Alpha-amylase (enzyme) | In a 2026 test-tube study, cardamom extracts blocked alpha-amylase (not alpha-glucosidase) and showed strong activity in anti-inflammatory tests. This does not show a blood sugar effect in people. 7 | Laboratory research |
| Tooth-decay bacteria (Streptococcus mutans) | Bacterial genes gtfB, gtfC, gtfD, ldh, gbpB, vicR | In a dish, cardamom oil stopped growth and biofilm; the bacteria turned up virulence genes, which the authors read as a stress response. 16 | Laboratory research |
Absorption, metabolism and elimination
- Absorption
- Not found.
- Distribution
- Not found.
- Metabolism
- Not found.
- Elimination
- Not found.
- Bioavailability
- Not found.
Isolated compounds versus whole extracts
Trials tested powder, capsules, extract or essential oil, not cardamom sprinkled on food. Oil results (nausea, mouth bacteria) do not carry over to the spice, and the powder results do not carry over to cooking amounts.
Nutritional composition
Nutrition from USDA FoodData Central (Spices, cardamom, FDC 170919, SR Legacy, last updated 4/1/2019, read 2026-10-26). Per 100 g of ground spice: 311 kcal, 10.8 g protein, 6.7 g fat, 68.5 g carbohydrate, 28 g fibre, 383 mg calcium, 14 mg iron, 229 mg magnesium, 1,120 mg potassium, 18 mg sodium, 7.47 mg zinc, 28 mg manganese, 21 mg vitamin C. A typical food portion is tiny: one teaspoon of ground cardamom (2.0 g, USDA household portion) provides about 6 kcal, 0.2 g protein, 0.6 g fibre, 8 mg calcium, 0.3 mg iron, 5 mg magnesium, 22 mg potassium and 0.6 mg manganese (our arithmetic from the per-100 g values). A teaspoon is mostly flavour, so this page does not call cardamom a good source of any nutrient. Real products vary.
1 mixed findings1 low certainty4 very low certainty2 not enough evidence
What was looked at
The 8 benefits and uses checked for Cardamom, each with how strong the evidence is. Tap one to open it.
- Blood fats (triglycerides and cholesterol)Mixed findings
- Inflammation and oxidative stress markersLow certainty
- Blood pressureVery low certainty
- Blood sugar and insulin resistanceVery low certainty
- Fatty liver (NAFLD)Very low certainty
- Nausea after surgery (essential oil, not food)Very low certainty
- Digestive complaints (heartburn, gas, IBS)Not enough evidence
- Mouth bacteria and antioxidant tests (lab only)Not enough evidence
Lab markers tracked in the studies
TriglyceridesTotal, LDL and HDL cholesterolhs-CRP and interleukin-6Blood pressureHbA1c and insulin resistance (HOMA-IR)Fatty liver grade and related blood markersNausea and retching after surgery
What is Cardamom good for?
The main studied uses and how strong the human evidence is. Almost all results are from capsules, powder, extract or essential oil in small trials, not from cooking with the spice.
Benefits, one by one
Each card is a research question, not a promise. Tap a goal to filter. Open a card to see the studies, doses and limits.
Blood fats (triglycerides and cholesterol)
Mixed findingsSmall trials of cardamom powder or capsules found lower triglycerides. Results for total cholesterol differ between two reviews, and neither found a clear change in LDL or HDL. These are lab values, not heart attacks or strokes, and they come from supplements, not cooking amounts.
2 studiesCardamom powder, capsules or extract in trials; amounts are trial det…
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
A 2024 meta-analysis of 12 randomised trials (989 adults) found lower total cholesterol and triglycerides but no significant change in HDL or LDL. A 2020 meta-analysis of 5 trials found lower triglycerides but no significant change in total, LDL or HDL cholesterol.
Results
Triglycerides fell in both reviews. Total cholesterol fell in the larger 2024 review but not in the smaller 2020 one.
Effect sizes as reported
2024: total cholesterol -8.56 mg/dL (95% CI -14.90 to -2.22); triglycerides -14.09 mg/dL (-24.01 to -4.17). 2020: triglycerides -20.55 mg/dL (-32.48 to -8.63); total cholesterol -6.11 mg/dL (-13.06 to 0.83, not significant).
Why this rating
Mixed: the two reviews agree on triglycerides but not on total cholesterol, trials are few and small, and the lab values are not heart outcomes.
Form and dose studied
Cardamom powder, capsules or extract in trials; amounts are trial detail, not advice.
Who was studied
Adults, many with overweight, pre-diabetes, diabetes or fatty liver.
Limits
Almost no studies used cardamom sprinkled on food; trials used capsules, powder or extract. No trial measured heart attacks or strokes.
Why researchers looked
Blood fats are a common risk marker for heart disease, so trials checked whether cardamom changes them.
Traditional use
Cardamom is a spice used in cooking and drinks and in traditional medicine. Long use is not proof that it treats any condition.
Proposed mechanism Unknown
Not established. Which compound might matter was not shown by the studies read.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
See the Safety tab for gallstones and pregnancy cautions.
Inflammation and oxidative stress markers
Low certaintyIn pooled trials and one small trial of women with pre-diabetes, cardamom supplements were linked to lower blood markers of inflammation (hs-CRP and interleukin-6). These are markers, not proof that cardamom treats any inflammatory illness.
3 studiesCardamom supplement (trial: 3 g a day for 8 weeks; trial detail, not …
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
A 2024 meta-analysis of 12 trials found lower hs-CRP and interleukin-6 but no significant change in some oxidative stress indicators. A 2024 meta-analysis of 8 studies also reported lower hs-CRP, IL-6 and TNF-alpha. A trial of 80 pre-diabetic women found lower hs-CRP and malondialdehyde after 8 weeks.
Results
Inflammation markers fell in pooled supplement trials. Oxidative stress results were mixed.
Effect sizes as reported
12-trial review: hs-CRP -1.01 ng/mL (95% CI -1.81 to -0.22); IL-6 -1.81 pg/mL (-3.06 to -0.56). 8-study review: hs-CRP standardised mean difference -0.60. Trial in women: hs-CRP P=0.02, MDA P=0.009.
Why this rating
Low: few small trials, the 8-study review says caution is needed, units in one abstract are unclear, and markers are not illness.
Form and dose studied
Cardamom supplement (trial: 3 g a day for 8 weeks; trial detail, not advice).
Who was studied
Adults; the single trial was in overweight or obese pre-diabetic women with high blood fats.
Limits
Almost no studies used cardamom sprinkled on food; trials used capsules, powder or extract. The two reviews may include some of the same trials.
Why researchers looked
Cardamom is rich in aromatic plant compounds, and long-lasting low-level inflammation is linked to heart and metabolic disease.
Traditional use
Cardamom is a spice used in cooking and drinks and in traditional medicine. Long use is not proof that it treats any condition.
Proposed mechanism Laboratory research
Not established. Test-tube work reports anti-inflammatory activity of extracts, which does not show the same in people.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
See the Safety tab.
Blood pressure
Very low certaintyOne pooling reported very small average falls in blood pressure (about 0.5 mmHg for the upper number). A larger single trial of people with type 2 diabetes found no difference from tea alone. The effect, if real, is far too small to matter for most people.
2 studiesCardamom powder or supplements; in the trial 3 g a day with tea (tria…
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
A 2024 meta-analysis of 8 studies reported falls of 0.54 mmHg (systolic) and 0.90 mmHg (diastolic). A trial of 204 adults with type 2 diabetes who took cardamom with tea for 8 weeks found no significant difference from tea alone.
Results
A statistically detectable but tiny change in the pooled data, and no change in the largest single trial.
Effect sizes as reported
Pooled: systolic -0.54 mmHg (95% CI -0.88 to -0.19); diastolic -0.90 mmHg (-1.07 to -0.73). Single trial: no significant between-group difference.
Why this rating
Very low: the pooled effect is under 1 mmHg, few studies, and the biggest trial was null.
Form and dose studied
Cardamom powder or supplements; in the trial 3 g a day with tea (trial detail, not advice).
Who was studied
Adults; one trial was in people with type 2 diabetes.
Limits
Almost no studies used cardamom sprinkled on food; trials used capsules, powder or extract.
Why researchers looked
Spices are sometimes proposed to help blood pressure, so trials measured it.
Traditional use
Cardamom is a spice used in cooking and drinks and in traditional medicine. Long use is not proof that it treats any condition.
Proposed mechanism Unknown
Not established.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Do not stop or change blood pressure medicine because of cardamom.
Blood sugar and insulin resistance
Very low certaintyOne 10-week trial of 83 overweight adults with type 2 diabetes found lower HbA1c and insulin resistance with cardamom powder than with a placebo. Larger reviews of herbal medicines list cardamom for insulin resistance measures but rate that evidence low to very low. Ginger and turmeric, not cardamom, were the herbs supported for HbA1c.
3 studiesCardamom powder (trial: 3 g a day for 10 weeks; trial detail, not adv…
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
A randomised trial of 83 overweight or obese adults with type 2 diabetes gave 3 g of green cardamom or rusk powder for 10 weeks. An umbrella review of herbal medicines for type 2 diabetes listed cardamom among herbs with improved insulin resistance measures, with low to very low quality evidence. A systematic review of 14 studies (6 clinical, 8 in vivo) reported mostly favourable results for insulin resistance but no substantial effect on weight loss.
Results
Better HbA1c, insulin and HOMA-IR in one small trial; reviews call the wider evidence weak.
Effect sizes as reported
Trial vs placebo: HbA1c -0.4%; insulin -2.8 microIU/dL; HOMA-IR -1.7; triglycerides -39.9 mg/dL. Total, HDL and LDL cholesterol did not change significantly.
Why this rating
Very low: one small trial, the reviews are low or very low quality, and the 14-study review mixes animal and human work.
Form and dose studied
Cardamom powder (trial: 3 g a day for 10 weeks; trial detail, not advice).
Who was studied
Overweight or obese adults with type 2 diabetes.
Limits
Almost no studies used cardamom sprinkled on food; trials used capsules, powder or extract. Not a treatment for diabetes.
Why researchers looked
Cardamom contains plant compounds that were tested for effects on insulin and blood sugar.
Traditional use
Cardamom is a spice used in cooking and drinks and in traditional medicine. Long use is not proof that it treats any condition.
Proposed mechanism Laboratory research
Not established. A 2026 test-tube study found that extracts blocked the enzyme alpha-amylase, which does not show an effect in people.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
If you use diabetes medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist before taking cardamom supplements; the review urges monitoring for low blood sugar with herbs.
Fatty liver (NAFLD)
Very low certaintyOne 3-month trial of 87 overweight adults with fatty liver found lower fatty liver grade on ultrasound, lower insulin resistance, triglycerides and LDL, and higher HDL with cardamom capsules than with placebo. It is a single trial, so it needs repeating.
1 studiesGreen cardamom capsules (trial: about 3 g a day for 3 months; trial d…
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
A double-blind randomised trial in Tehran gave 87 overweight or obese people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease two 500 mg capsules three times a day for 3 months, compared with placebo.
Results
Improved fatty liver grade and several blood markers; no significant change in fasting blood sugar, total cholesterol or body mass index.
Effect sizes as reported
Significant (P<0.05) for irisin, HDL, QUICKI, fasting insulin, triglycerides, HOMA-IR and fatty liver grade; LDL only a trend after adjustment (P=0.07).
Why this rating
Very low: a single trial, ultrasound grading is rough, and no long-term liver outcomes were measured.
Form and dose studied
Green cardamom capsules (trial: about 3 g a day for 3 months; trial detail, not advice).
Who was studied
Overweight or obese adults with fatty liver disease.
Limits
Almost no studies used cardamom sprinkled on food; trials used capsules, powder or extract.
Why researchers looked
Fatty liver goes with high blood fats and insulin resistance, which cardamom was tested against.
Traditional use
Cardamom is a spice used in cooking and drinks and in traditional medicine. Long use is not proof that it treats any condition.
Proposed mechanism Unknown
Not established. The trial measured irisin, a hormone-like protein, but this does not prove how it works.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Fatty liver needs medical care; do not replace advice with cardamom.
Nausea after surgery (essential oil, not food)
Very low certaintyTwo small trials of cardamom essential oil, as ice cubes under the tongue or sniffed from a pad, found less nausea after surgery than placebo. This is an essential oil used as aromatherapy, not cardamom eaten as a spice.
2 studiesEssential oil on ice cubes (6 drops of 10% extract per cube) or inhal…
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
A triple-blind trial of 105 people after keyhole gallbladder surgery found both peppermint and cardamom ice cubes did better than placebo, with no significant difference between the two oils. A single-blind trial of 70 women after caesarean section found less nausea, retching and anti-sickness medicine use when they sniffed cardamom oil.
Results
Both trials favoured the oil over placebo.
Effect sizes as reported
Caesarean trial: nausea episodes 37.1% vs 65.7% (P=0.006); retching 20% vs 45.7% (P=0.028); anti-sickness medicine 37.1% vs 65.7% (P=0.009).
Why this rating
Very low: two small trials of an essential oil, one single-blind, with symptoms rated by patients.
Form and dose studied
Essential oil on ice cubes (6 drops of 10% extract per cube) or inhaled; not a food.
Who was studied
Adults after surgery.
Limits
Aromatherapy with concentrated oil does not tell us about spice in food. Numbers against placebo were not in the ice-cube abstract.
Why researchers looked
Strong aromas are sometimes used to ease nausea after surgery, so cardamom oil was tested.
Traditional use
Cardamom is a spice used in cooking and drinks and in traditional medicine. Long use is not proof that it treats any condition.
Proposed mechanism Unknown
Not established.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Essential oils are concentrated; follow your surgical team's advice.
Digestive complaints (heartburn, gas, IBS)
Not enough evidenceCardamom is traditionally used for digestion, but the consumer reference we read rates the evidence for heartburn, gas, irritable bowel syndrome and similar uses as insufficient. No human trial of cardamom for digestion was found.
1 studiesSeed in food, tea or supplements.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
RxList, citing Natural Medicines, lists heartburn, intestinal spasms, IBS, gas, constipation and loss of appetite as uses with insufficient evidence to rate.
Results
No human evidence was found for digestive uses.
Effect sizes as reported
No effect sizes.
Why this rating
Insufficient: traditional use is not evidence, and no trial was found.
Form and dose studied
Seed in food, tea or supplements.
Who was studied
Adults.
Limits
A commercial consumer reference, not a study; PubMed searches found no digestion trial.
Why researchers looked
Cardamom is widely used in many food cultures after meals and in teas for digestion.
Traditional use
Cardamom is a spice used in cooking and drinks and in traditional medicine. Long use is not proof that it treats any condition.
Proposed mechanism Unknown
The reference says cardamom chemicals appear to ease stomach and intestinal spasms and gas, but this is stated without a study.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
See gallstones on the Safety tab.
Mouth bacteria and antioxidant tests (lab only)
Not enough evidenceIn dishes in the lab, cardamom oil slowed tooth-decay bacteria and extracts showed antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. These are test-tube results and tell us nothing yet about people.
2 studiesConcentrated oil and lab extracts; not a mouthwash or food amount.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
A 2026 lab study found cardamom oil the strongest of twelve oils against S. mutans in a dish. A 2026 study of seed extracts found moderate antioxidant activity and strong activity in anti-inflammatory tests.
Results
Activity in the lab only.
Effect sizes as reported
Oil: lowest concentration that stopped growth 2.5% and killed bacteria 5.0% (v/v).
Why this rating
Insufficient for people: bacteria and test tubes only.
Form and dose studied
Concentrated oil and lab extracts; not a mouthwash or food amount.
Who was studied
No people.
Limits
Lab concentrations are not a guide to use.
Why researchers looked
Lab studies screen plant extracts for activity against bacteria and for antioxidant effects.
Traditional use
Cardamom is a spice used in cooking and drinks and in traditional medicine. Long use is not proof that it treats any condition.
Proposed mechanism Laboratory research
In the dish, the oil killed Streptococcus mutans at 5.0% and extracts blocked inflammation-related tests, but bacterial stress genes were also turned up.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Ask a pharmacist before using concentrated essential oils.
Connections to the rest of health
How Cardamom connects to the rest of our health knowledge graph. Every link says what kind of connection it is. A safety link (for example to the liver) is a warning, not a benefit. A study that merely mentions a topic never creates a benefit link.
Explore every connection: goals, body systems, organs, symptoms, genes
A. Wellness goals
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cholesterol Balance | Mixed findings | Blood fats (triglycerides and cholesterol): Small trials of cardamom powder or capsules found lower triglycerides. Results for total cholesterol differ between two reviews, and neither found a clear change in LDL or HDL. These are lab values, not heart attacks or strokes, and they come from supplements, not cooking amounts. | 17 15 | |
| Inflammation Balance | Low certainty | Inflammation and oxidative stress markers: In pooled trials and one small trial of women with pre-diabetes, cardamom supplements were linked to lower blood markers of inflammation (hs-CRP and interleukin-6). These are markers, not proof that cardamom treats any inflammatory illness. | 17 6 9 | |
| Blood Pressure Support | Very low certainty | Blood pressure: One pooling reported very small average falls in blood pressure (about 0.5 mmHg for the upper number). A larger single trial of people with type 2 diabetes found no difference from tea alone. The effect, if real, is far too small to matter for most people. | 6 3 | |
| Blood Sugar Balance | Very low certainty | Blood sugar and insulin resistance: One 10-week trial of 83 overweight adults with type 2 diabetes found lower HbA1c and insulin resistance with cardamom powder than with a placebo. Larger reviews of herbal medicines list cardamom for insulin resistance measures but rate that evidence low to very low. Ginger and turmeric, not cardamom, were the herbs supported for HbA1c. | 2 11 13 | |
| Digestive Support | Traditional use | Not enough evidence | Digestive complaints (heartburn, gas, IBS): Cardamom is traditionally used for digestion, but the consumer reference we read rates the evidence for heartburn, gas, irritable bowel syndrome and similar uses as insufficient. No human trial of cardamom for digestion was found. | 19 |
B. Body systems
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cardiovascular System | Biological association | Mixed findings | Studied for: Blood fats (triglycerides and cholesterol) Studied for: Inflammation and oxidative stress markers | 17 15 6 9 3 |
| Metabolism Weight | Biological association | Mixed findings | Studied for: Blood fats (triglycerides and cholesterol) Studied for: Blood sugar and insulin resistance | 17 15 2 11 13 5 |
| Immune System | Biological association | Low certainty | Studied for: Inflammation and oxidative stress markers Studied for: Mouth bacteria and antioxidant tests (lab only) | 17 6 9 16 7 |
| Endocrine System | Biological association | Very low certainty | Studied for: Blood sugar and insulin resistance | 2 11 13 |
| Hepatic System | Biological association | Very low certainty | Studied for: Fatty liver (NAFLD) | 5 |
| Digestive System | Biological association | Very low certainty | Studied for: Nausea after surgery (essential oil, not food) Studied for: Digestive complaints (heartburn, gas, IBS) | 8 10 19 |
C. Body parts and organs
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gallbladder | Adverse effect or risk | Documented risk | A consumer reference says the seed can trigger gallstone colic; keep to food amounts if you have gallstones. A consumer reference says the seed can trigger gallstone colic; keep to food amounts with gallstones. Preparation or compound: Cardamom seed above food amounts |
19 |
I. Biomarkers
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Triglycerides | Biological association | Low certainty | Measured in trials: lowered. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 17 15 |
| Total, LDL and HDL cholesterol | Biological association | Low certainty | Measured in trials: mixed. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 17 15 |
| hs-CRP and interleukin-6 | Biological association | Low certainty | Measured in trials: lowered. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 17 9 6 |
| Blood pressure | Biological association | Very low certainty | Measured in trials: no-change. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 6 3 |
| HbA1c and insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) | Biological association | Very low certainty | Measured in trials: lowered. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 2 11 |
| Fatty liver grade and related blood markers | Biological association | Very low certainty | Measured in trials: lowered. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 5 |
| Nausea and retching after surgery | Biological association | Very low certainty | Measured in trials: lowered. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 10 8 |
K. Biological pathways
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gallbladder | Preliminary mechanism | Authoritative guidance | A consumer reference cautions against more than food amounts in people with gallstones. | 19 |
| Manganese | Preliminary mechanism | Human | Ground cardamom has manganese per USDA; a teaspoon is a small portion. | 20 |
L. Active compounds
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpha-terpinyl acetate | Biological association | In vitro | Aroma compound; no effect in people shown. Preparation or compound: Seed oil |
7 1 |
| 1,8-Cineole (eucalyptol) | Biological association | In vitro | Gives the cool, eucalyptus-like note; antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity is attributed to it in the LactMed record, not shown in people. Preparation or compound: Seed oil |
1 16 |
| Linalool | Biological association | In vitro | Aroma compound; no effect in people shown. Preparation or compound: Seed oil |
1 16 |
| Limonene | Biological association | In vitro | Aroma compound; no effect in people shown. Preparation or compound: Seed oil |
1 |
| Manganese | Biological association | Human | Essential trace mineral; a teaspoon of spice is a small portion. Preparation or compound: Seed |
20 |
Each connection is stored with the ingredient, the connected record, the kind of connection, the evidence status, the supporting studies, the preparation or compound involved, and a review date (last reviewed October 26, 2026).
The evidence
The research centre for Cardamom. Every record here was checked against PubMed or the publisher's page; we never list a study we have not verified.
Evidence by outcome
Bars show how many studies we found for each outcome, not how well it works. People are added up across trials only (reviews are not added, to avoid double counting).
How we rate evidence
High certainty
Several well-run trials or reviews agree; further research is unlikely to change the picture much.
Moderate certainty
Good trials point the same way, but some doubt remains.
Low certainty
Small, short or inconsistent trials. The finding could change with better research.
Very low certainty
Very little or very weak human data. Treat as a possibility only.
Mixed findings
Trials or reviews disagree with each other.
Not enough evidence
Not enough human research to say either way.
Evidence against
Good research found no benefit, or found harm.
We take the reviewers' own risk-of-bias and GRADE statements where they exist, and otherwise judge from study size, design, consistency, directness and whether a product matches what is sold. Many publications do not make evidence high. Method note: We started from our existing cardamom summary, re-read nutrition at USDA FoodData Central, read a consumer reference and searched PubMed for reviews, trials and case reports. Only abstracts were read for studies, and one allergy paper had no abstract. Items we could not verify are flagged in the research gaps.
Study library: every study we checked 20
| Study | Design | People | Product, dose, length | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2006 Cardamom. · PMID 40460231 |
Database record |
Reference record on cardamom and breastfeeding (LactMed) | Cardamom Seed |
The record says cardamom has been used during breastfeeding to treat infant colic and to increase milk supply as part of an herbal mixture, with some literature support, and as a postpartum tonic in Sri Lanka. The text read gives no safety verdict. Not applicable (Not applicable) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Use of cardamom during breastfeeding Limitations: Record dated 2006 in PubMed with an update in 2025; only the summary text was read. No statement of safety or harm was in the text read. Funding and conflicts: Not applicable Read: abstract |
| Aghasi 2019 Beneficial effects of green cardamom on serum SIRT1, glycemic indices and triglyceride levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a randomized double-blind placebo controlled clinical trial. J Sci Food Agric · PMID 30701554 · DOI |
Controlled trial |
83 83 overweight or obese adults with type 2 diabetes |
Green cardamom powder 3 g per day (trial detail, not advice) 10 weeks · vs Rusk powder (placebo) |
Compared with placebo, cardamom lowered HbA1c, insulin, HOMA-IR and triglycerides and raised SIRT1. Total, HDL and LDL cholesterol did not change significantly. HbA1c -0.4%; insulin -2.8 microIU/dL; HOMA-IR -1.7; triglycerides -39.9 mg/dL; SIRT1 +2.3 ng/mL (Not given in the abstract) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: HbA1c, insulin, HOMA-IR, blood fats, SIRT1 Limitations: One trial of 83 people over 10 weeks. Authors link results to SIRT1 but this is a marker, not proof of how it works. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Azimi 2016 Effect of cinnamon, cardamom, saffron and ginger consumption on blood pressure and a marker of endothelial function in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A randomized controlled clinical trial. Blood Press · PMID 26758574 · DOI |
Controlled trial |
204 204 adults with type 2 diabetes |
Cardamom powder with black tea (cinnamon, saffron and ginger groups also tested) 3 g per day with three glasses of black tea (trial detail, not advice) 8 weeks · vs Black tea only |
No significant difference was found between the herb groups and the control group for blood pressure, sICAM-1 or body measures. Within-group changes were seen for saffron and ginger, not cardamom. No significant between-group difference for cardamom (Not given in the abstract) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Blood pressure, sICAM-1 (a marker of blood vessel lining), body measures Limitations: Cardamom was taken with tea; one of four herbs tested. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Bernal-Rubio 2024 Identification of the Protein a-L-Fucosidase as the Possible Cause of Allergy to Cardamom. J Investig Allergol Clin Immunol · PMID 38888582 · DOI |
Case report |
Not stated (no abstract in the PubMed record) | Cardamom |
Only the title was read (the PubMed record has no abstract). The title says a protein, alpha-L-fucosidase, was identified as the possible cause of allergy to cardamom. Not available (Not available) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Allergy to cardamom Limitations: No abstract to read. How common cardamom allergy is was not found. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: title-only |
| Daneshi-Maskooni 2019 Green cardamom supplementation improves serum irisin, glucose indices, and lipid profiles in overweight or obese non-alcoholic fatty liver disease patients: a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial. BMC Complement Altern Med · PMID 30871514 · DOI |
Controlled trial |
87 87 overweight or obese adults with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in Tehran |
Green cardamom capsules Two 500 mg capsules three times a day with meals, about 3 g per day (trial detail, not advice) 3 months · vs Placebo capsules |
Compared with placebo, cardamom raised irisin, HDL cholesterol and an insulin sensitivity index, and lowered fasting insulin, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, insulin resistance and the grade of fatty liver. Fasting blood sugar, total cholesterol and body mass index did not change significantly. After adjustment LDL was a trend only (P=0.07). Significant (P<0.05) for irisin, HDL, QUICKI, insulin, TG, HOMA-IR, fatty liver grade; not significant for fasting blood sugar, total cholesterol, BMI (Not given in the abstract) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Irisin, blood sugar indices, blood fats, fatty liver grade on ultrasound Limitations: One trial. Fatty liver grade was read on ultrasound, which is a rough measure. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Registration: IRCT2015121317254N4 Read: abstract |
| Heydarian 2024 Effect of cardamom consumption on inflammation and blood pressure in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Food Sci Nutr · PMID 38268891 · DOI |
Systematic review meta analysis |
Adults in 8 eligible clinical studies (total number not given in the abstract) | Cardamom consumption Not given in the abstract (trial detail, not advice) Varied · vs Control |
Cardamom was linked to lower hs-CRP, IL-6 and TNF-alpha and to very small falls in blood pressure. The authors say caution is needed because there were few studies. Systolic pressure WMD -0.54 mmHg; diastolic -0.90 mmHg; hs-CRP SMD -0.60 (units in the abstract for the other markers are unclear, so they are not repeated here) (Systolic -0.88 to -0.19; diastolic -1.07 to -0.73) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Inflammation markers (hs-CRP, IL-6, TNF-alpha), systolic and diastolic blood pressure Limitations: Few studies; a fixed-effect model was used. Falls of about 1 mmHg are tiny. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Hitl 2026 Queen of Spices, Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum (L.) Maton, Zingiberaceae)-In Vitro Assessment of Biological Potential. Molecules · PMID 42513114 · DOI |
Laboratory research in-vitro |
Laboratory tests (no people) | Aqueous and ethanolic extracts of cardamom seed and seed essential oil Seed |
The oil was rich in monoterpenes, mostly alpha-terpinyl acetate. Antioxidant activity was moderate and anti-inflammatory activity in tests was potent, more so for the ethanol extract. The extracts blocked the enzyme alpha-amylase but not alpha-glucosidase. The authors call the potential preliminary. Not applicable (Not applicable) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Chemistry of the oil; antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and sugar-enzyme activity in test tubes Limitations: Test-tube study. Does not show any effect in people. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Kamalvand 2025 Comparison of the effect of ice sucking containing peppermint (Mentha piperita L.) with cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) extract on nausea, vomiting, and drug request after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Explore (NY) · PMID 40967081 · DOI |
Controlled trial |
105 105 adults having keyhole gallbladder surgery |
Ice cubes with cardamom essential oil (6 drops of 10% extract per cube), held under the tongue; peppermint and placebo cubes also tested Essential oil, not food 4 ice cubes, one every 15 minutes (trial detail, not advice) 4 hours of follow-up · vs Placebo ice cubes |
Peppermint and cardamom ice cubes both did better than placebo. Peppermint trended better than cardamom but the difference between the two oils was not statistically significant. Intergroup differences not significant (P>0.05) between peppermint and cardamom (Not given in the abstract) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Nausea severity (VAS), vomiting, requests for anti-sickness medicine Limitations: Essential oil on ice, not the spice. Numbers against placebo were not in the abstract. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Kazemi 2017 Cardamom supplementation improves inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers in hyperlipidemic, overweight, and obese pre-diabetic women: a randomized double-blind clinical trial. J Sci Food Agric · PMID 28480505 · DOI |
Controlled trial |
80 80 overweight or obese women with pre-diabetes and high blood fats |
Cardamom supplement 3 g per day (trial detail, not advice) 8 weeks · vs Identical inert placebo |
After adjusting for other factors, cardamom lowered hs-CRP, the hs-CRP to IL-6 ratio and malondialdehyde (an oxidative stress marker) compared with placebo. hs-CRP P=0.02; hs-CRP:IL-6 ratio P=0.008; MDA P=0.009 (Not given in the abstract) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: hs-CRP, IL-6, TNF-alpha, antioxidant and oxidative stress markers Limitations: One small trial in one group of women. Blood markers, not illness. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Khatiban 2022 Effect of Cardamom Inhalation Therapy on Intra-and Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting of Mothers Undergoing Spinal Anesthesia for Elective Cesarean Section. J Perianesth Nurs · PMID 35581106 · DOI |
Controlled trial |
70 70 women having elective caesarean section under spinal anaesthesia |
Cardamom essential oil on a gauze pad, inhaled from a plastic bag Essential oil, not food Inhaled at the first episode of nausea (trial detail, not advice) Around the operation · vs Gauze with saline only |
Nausea fell in both groups, but more in the cardamom group once starting severity was adjusted for. Fewer women in the cardamom group had nausea episodes, retching or needed anti-sickness medicine. Nausea episodes 37.1% vs 65.7% (P=0.006); retching 20% vs 45.7% (P=0.028); anti-sickness medicine 37.1% vs 65.7% (P=0.009) (Not given in the abstract) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Nausea severity, retching, anti-sickness medicine Limitations: Single-blind trial of an inhaled essential oil in a small group. Not the spice as food. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Li 2025 The efficacy and safety of herbal medicines for glycaemic control and insulin resistance in individuals with type 2 diabetes: an umbrella review. BMC Complement Med Ther · PMID 41029669 · DOI |
Systematic review |
Adults with type 2 diabetes in 8 meta-analyses and 2 systematic reviews of herbal medicines | Various herbal medicines (cardamom among them) Varied Varied · vs Placebo or standard care |
Ginger, turmeric and Jinlida granules lowered HbA1c with moderate to high certainty. Cardamom was named with ginger, turmeric and others as showing improved insulin resistance measures, but overall confidence is limited because the included reviews were of low to very low quality. The authors urge monitoring for low blood sugar when herbs are used with diabetes medicines. Cardamom: improved insulin resistance measures (low to very low quality reviews); not listed for HbA1c (Not applicable) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: HbA1c, insulin resistance, adverse events Limitations: Umbrella review of low-quality reviews; cardamom is one name in a long list. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Mobacken 1975 Allergic contact dermatitis from cardamom. Contact Dermatitis · PMID 138507 · DOI |
Case report |
1 One confectioner with long-lasting hand dermatitis |
Skin contact with cardamom seed at work Seed Chronic |
The worker had positive patch tests to cardamom and to certain terpene compounds in the dried seeds. The authors say they know of no earlier report of dermatitis from skin contact with cardamom. Not applicable (Not applicable) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Allergic contact dermatitis, patch test Limitations: A single 1975 case about skin contact at work, not eating. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Nasimi Doost Azgomi 2024 The favorable impacts of cardamom on related complications of diabetes: A comprehensive literature systematic review. Diabetes Metab Syndr · PMID 38325073 · DOI |
Systematic review |
14 studies of cardamom and diabetes complications: 6 clinical trials and 8 animal or lab (in vivo) studies | Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) supplementation Not given in the abstract Varied · vs Control |
Most studies reported benefits for insulin resistance, oxidative stress and inflammation, and cardamom improved dyslipidaemia but had no substantial effect on weight loss. The authors say more clinical trials are needed. Narrative summary; no pooled numbers in the abstract (Not applicable) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Inflammation, blood glucose, oxidative stress, blood fats Limitations: Mixes 6 human trials with 8 animal studies; no pooled estimate. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Natarajan 2022 Development and validation of a GC-MS method for analysis of Dithiocarbamate Fungicide residues in the Spices Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomom) and black pepper (Piper nigrum). J Food Sci Technol · PMID 36193354 · DOI |
Lab analysis n/a |
Laboratory method validation on spice samples | Cardamom and black pepper samples tested for fungicide residues Spice |
The paper builds and validates a test for dithiocarbamate fungicide residues in cardamom and black pepper. It says maximum residue limits for these compounds are enforced by several importing countries and that the method suits checking Codex limits. Not applicable (Not applicable) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Dithiocarbamate fungicide residue testing Limitations: A method paper. Residue levels in real cardamom samples are not in the abstract. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Shekarchizadeh-Esfahani 2020 Effects of cardamom supplementation on lipid profile: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials. Phytother Res · PMID 31755188 · DOI |
Systematic review meta analysis |
Adults in 5 randomised trials (total number not given in the abstract) | Cardamom supplementation Not given in the abstract (trial detail, not advice) Varied · vs Placebo or control |
Cardamom did not significantly change total, LDL or HDL cholesterol. Triglycerides fell significantly. The authors say more studies in people with high blood fats are needed. Triglycerides WMD -20.55 mg/dL; total cholesterol -6.11 mg/dL (not significant); LDL -4.31 (not significant); HDL +1.75 (not significant) (Triglycerides -32.48 to -8.63; total cholesterol -13.06 to 0.83; LDL -9.75 to 1.13; HDL -1.95 to 5.46 (I2 71.4%)) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Blood lipids (total, LDL, HDL cholesterol; triglycerides) Limitations: Only five trials. Supplements, not food amounts. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Singh 2026 In vitro inhibition of Streptococcus mutans by cardamom essential oil. Front Oral Health · PMID 42199993 · DOI |
Laboratory research in-vitro |
Laboratory tests on tooth-decay bacteria (no people) | Cardamom essential oil Seed oil (source not stated in the abstract) · vs Eleven other essential oils |
Cardamom oil stopped the bacteria growing at 2.5% and killed them at 5.0% in the dish, and was the strongest of twelve oils tested. At 5.0%, biofilm and cell survival fell by more than 75%, but genes linked to harm were turned up, which the authors read as a stress response. MIC 2.5% and MBC 5.0% (volume per volume) (Not applicable) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Growth and biofilm of Streptococcus mutans Limitations: Bacteria in a dish with concentrated oil. Not a food, mouthwash or test in people. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Zhang 2024 Cardamom consumption may improve cardiovascular metabolic biomarkers in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Nutr Res · PMID 38593657 · DOI |
Systematic review meta analysis |
989 989 adults in 12 randomised trials |
Cardamom consumption (supplement powder or extract in trials; amounts not given in the abstract) Mostly seed; not stated in the abstract Not given in the abstract (trial detail, not advice) Varied · vs Placebo or control |
Cardamom lowered total cholesterol, triglycerides, hs-CRP and interleukin-6. It did not significantly change HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol or some oxidative stress indicators. The authors call for larger, better-designed trials. Total cholesterol WMD -8.56 mg/dL; triglycerides -14.09 mg/dL; hs-CRP -1.01 ng/mL; IL-6 -1.81 pg/mL (Total cholesterol -14.90 to -2.22; triglycerides -24.01 to -4.17; hs-CRP -1.81 to -0.22; IL-6 -3.06 to -0.56) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Blood fats, inflammation markers, oxidative stress indices Limitations: Pooled small trials, mostly of supplements rather than food amounts. Heterogeneity and trial quality were not given in the abstract. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| s-gbif-elettaria-cardamomum GBIF Backbone: Elettaria cardamomum (L.) Maton (usageKey 2759871) · Source |
Reference database n/a |
Methods, limits and fundingRead: full-text | ||
| s-rxlist-cardamom RxList: Cardamom (consumer reference citing Natural Medicines) · Source |
Health agency n/a |
Methods, limits and fundingRead: full-text | ||
| s-usda-fdc-170919 USDA FoodData Central: Spices, cardamom (FDC 170919) · Source |
Reference database n/a |
Methods, limits and fundingRead: full-text |
What we do not know yet
- No trial used cardamom as an ordinary cooking spice.
- Trials were small and short, with supplements, and none measured heart attacks, strokes or deaths.
- The digestion claim rests on traditional use and a consumer reference; no human trial was found.
- Gallstone and pregnancy cautions come from one commercial reference.
- Allergy was found only in a case report and a title-only paper; how common it is was not found.
- Mould toxins, heavy metals, adulteration, children, long-term safety and drug interactions were not researched.
How new research is added
New studies are found by a saved PubMed search and placed in a review queue before the page changes.
Lab markers
What changed in blood or saliva tests during trials. A changed number is not the same as feeling or being healthier, and we give no "normal ranges".
Metabolic 2
Triglycerides
Lowered in trials
A type of fat in the blood. High levels are linked to heart disease risk.
Low certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
A standard blood-fat marker measured in cardamom trials.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
Both reviews agree on a fall, but it is a lab value from supplement trials.
Safety implication
None specific.
Total, LDL and HDL cholesterol
Mixed results in trials
Cholesterol carried in the blood. LDL is called the unhelpful kind and HDL the helpful kind.
Low certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
Standard blood-fat markers.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
The reviews disagree on total cholesterol; neither found a clear LDL or HDL change.
Safety implication
None specific.
| Study | Result | People | Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| 17 | Total cholesterol fell by 8.56 mg/dL (95% CI -14.90 to -2.22); HDL and LDL not significantly changed | Adults in 12 randomised trials | Cardamom supplements |
| 15 | No significant change in total cholesterol (-6.11 mg/dL, 95% CI -13.06 to 0.83), LDL or HDL | Adults in 5 randomised trials | Cardamom supplements |
Other 5
hs-CRP and interleukin-6
Lowered in trials
Blood markers that rise with inflammation in the body.
Low certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
Used to see whether cardamom changes background inflammation.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
Markers, not illness. A few small trials.
Safety implication
None specific.
| Study | Result | People | Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| 17 | hs-CRP fell by 1.01 ng/mL (95% CI -1.81 to -0.22) and IL-6 by 1.81 pg/mL (-3.06 to -0.56) | Adults in 12 randomised trials | Cardamom supplements |
| 9 | hs-CRP and the hs-CRP to IL-6 ratio were lower than with placebo (P=0.02 and P=0.008) | 80 women with pre-diabetes and high blood fats | Cardamom supplement for 8 weeks |
| 6 | hs-CRP and IL-6 reported lower in 8 pooled studies (units in the abstract are unclear) | Adults in 8 studies | Cardamom consumption |
Blood pressure
No clear change in trials
The pressure of blood in the arteries: upper (systolic) and lower (diastolic) numbers.
Very low certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
The main risk marker for stroke and heart disease.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
Tiny pooled change; the largest trial was null.
Safety implication
Do not stop blood pressure medicine.
HbA1c and insulin resistance (HOMA-IR)
Lowered in trials
HbA1c shows average blood sugar over about three months. HOMA-IR estimates how well the body responds to insulin.
Very low certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
Core markers for type 2 diabetes.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
One small trial; reviews are low quality. Cardamom was not among the herbs supported for HbA1c.
Safety implication
Monitor blood sugar if using diabetes medicine.
| Study | Result | People | Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | HbA1c fell by 0.4%, insulin by 2.8 microIU/dL and HOMA-IR by 1.7 versus placebo | 83 overweight or obese adults with type 2 diabetes | Green cardamom powder for 10 weeks |
| 11 | Cardamom listed with herbs showing improved insulin resistance measures; low to very low quality reviews | Adults with type 2 diabetes | Herbal medicines including cardamom |
Fatty liver grade and related blood markers
Lowered in trials
How much fat shows in the liver on an ultrasound scan, plus insulin and blood-fat markers.
Very low certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
The trial used ultrasound grading to follow fatty liver.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
One trial of 87 people; ultrasound grade is a rough measure.
Safety implication
None specific.
| Study | Result | People | Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | Lower fatty liver grade, insulin, HOMA-IR, triglycerides; higher HDL, irisin and QUICKI than placebo; no significant change in fasting sugar, total cholesterol or BMI | 87 overweight or obese adults with fatty liver | Green cardamom capsules for 3 months |
Nausea and retching after surgery
Lowered in trials
How sick people feel, rated on a scale, plus counts of vomiting and use of anti-sickness medicine.
Very low certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
The outcome both essential-oil trials aimed to improve.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
Small trials of an essential oil; patient-reported symptoms.
Safety implication
Essential oil, not food.
| Study | Result | People | Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | Nausea episodes 37.1% vs 65.7%, retching 20% vs 45.7%, anti-sickness medicine 37.1% vs 65.7% versus placebo | 70 women after caesarean section | Inhaled cardamom essential oil |
| 8 | Both peppermint and cardamom ice cubes did better than placebo; the two oils did not differ significantly | 105 adults after keyhole gallbladder surgery | Cardamom essential oil ice cubes under the tongue |
Safety
What studies and official sources say about side effects, medicines and who should check first. Each point shows what kind of evidence it comes from.
Main points to know 5
- Cooking amounts versus concentrated products. The consumer reference we read (RxList, citing Natural Medicines) says cardamom is likely safe for most people when taken by mouth, and that its side effects are not known. It also says there is not enough scientific information to set a dose range for medicinal use. The supplement trials in this page used powder or capsules, not cooking amounts. Sprinkling cardamom on food is very different from taking concentrated capsules, extract or essential oil. Authoritative guidance 19
- Gallstones: keep to food amounts. RxList says people with gallstones should not take cardamom in amounts greater than those typically found in food, because the seed can trigger gallstone colic (spasmodic pain). This comes from one consumer reference; no EU or NIH statement was found. If you have gallstones, ask your doctor. Authoritative guidance 19
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: stick to food amounts. RxList says there is not enough reliable information about medicinal amounts of cardamom in pregnancy or breastfeeding and advises sticking to food amounts. The US LactMed record says cardamom has been used during breastfeeding for infant colic and to increase milk supply as part of an herbal mixture, with some literature support; the text read gives no safety verdict. This is a lack of data, not proof of harm. Authoritative guidance 19 1
- Allergy and skin reactions are possible. A 1975 case report describes a confectioner with long-lasting hand dermatitis and positive patch tests to cardamom seed and its terpene compounds. A 2024 paper (only the title was read) proposes a protein as the possible cause of allergy to cardamom. How common cardamom allergy is was not found. Case report 12 4
- Diabetes medicines and herbal supplements. A 2025 umbrella review of herbal medicines for type 2 diabetes says careful monitoring for low blood sugar is essential when herbs are used with diabetes drugs, because herb-drug interaction data are lacking. This is a general statement about herbs; no cardamom-specific interaction study was found. Systematic review 11
Side effects 4
| Effect | How often | Severity and recovery | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Allergic contact dermatitis (hand eczema) from handling the seed One confectioner in 1975, positive patch tests to cardamom and terpenes. Not a reaction to eating. | Not established | not stated Not stated | Case report 12 |
| Allergy to cardamom (possible protein: alpha-L-fucosidase) Only the title was read; the record has no abstract. | Not established | not stated Not stated | Case report 4 |
| Gallstone colic (spasmodic pain) in people with gallstones who take more than food amounts Stated by a consumer reference without a study. | Not established | not stated Not stated | Authoritative guidance 19 |
| Side effects in the supplement trials The abstracts of the trials read do not report side effects, so no frequency can be given. That is missing information, not proof that there were none. | Not established | not stated Not stated | Controlled trial 2 5 |
Liver
No liver injury from cardamom as food or supplement was found in the sources read. A liver-safety source such as LiverTox was not searched for this page. The fatty liver trial reported improved fatty liver grade on ultrasound, not harm. 5
How often. No frequency was found.
Monitoring. No agency monitoring advice was found.
This is a safety connection. It is not evidence that Cardamom supports liver health.
Medicines and supplements 3
| With | Why it matters | Importance | Evidence | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diabetes medicines (insulin, metformin, sulfonylureas and others) prescription | Cardamom supplements were linked to lower HbA1c and insulin resistance in one small trial, so low blood sugar is a theoretical concern with diabetes medicine. | The umbrella review urges monitoring for low blood sugar with herbal medicines and diabetes drugs, and says herb-drug interaction data are lacking. It does not single out cardamom. | Systematic review Low certainty 11 2 | Ask your doctor or pharmacist before taking cardamom supplements if you use diabetes medicine. Cooking amounts are not the concern studied. |
| Blood pressure medicines prescription | Pooled trials found a very small fall in blood pressure. | The fall (about 0.5 to 0.9 mmHg) is too small to matter alone. No interaction report was found. | Meta-analysis Very low certainty 6 | Do not change blood pressure medicine because of cardamom. |
| Blood thinners and other medicines prescription | PubMed searches for cardamom with warfarin, CYP enzymes or drug interactions returned no human interaction study. | Gap Not enough evidence | Ask a pharmacist about supplements or essential oils with any prescription medicine. |
Who should check first 5
| Situation | Advice | Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Gallstones | Keep to food amounts and ask your doctor before using supplements. | Authoritative guidance 19 |
| Pregnancy or breastfeeding (medicinal amounts) | Stick to food amounts; ask a doctor or midwife about supplements or oils. | Authoritative guidance 19 1 |
| Known allergy to cardamom or skin reaction after handling it | Avoid it and ask an allergist or doctor. | Case report 12 4 |
| Taking diabetes medicine and thinking of cardamom supplements | Ask a doctor or pharmacist first. | Systematic review 11 |
| Young children | No source read covers cardamom supplements or oils in children, so none are advised here. Ask a doctor. | Gap |
Overdose, product quality and regulators
Summary. No toxicity from cardamom as an ordinary spice was found in the sources read. The cautions above are for gallstones, allergy, and concentrated products in pregnancy.
Animal. Not reviewed.
Human doses studied. Trials gave about 3 g a day of powder or capsules for 8 weeks to 3 months; the abstracts do not describe harms (trial detail, not advice).
Overdose response. Not found.
Genotoxicity. Not researched.
Spices can carry pesticide residues, moulds or other contaminants, but cardamom-specific data were barely found.
Pesticide residues. A 2022 method paper validated a test for dithiocarbamate fungicide residues in cardamom and black pepper and says maximum residue limits for these compounds are enforced by several importing countries. Real-sample levels are not in the abstract. 14
Black cardamom is a different plant. Black cardamom (Amomum subulatum) is a separate accepted species in GBIF. Some studies and some reference lists use "cardamom" loosely, so results for black cardamom are not assumed to apply to green cardamom. 18
| Body | Action | Date |
|---|---|---|
| RxList (consumer reference citing Natural Medicines) (United States) | Likely safe for most people by mouth; gallstone, pregnancy and breastfeeding cautions; insufficient evidence for digestive and other uses; no dose range set source | |
| LactMed (US National Library of Medicine) (United States) | Record describes use during breastfeeding for infant colic and milk supply and as a Sri Lankan postpartum tonic; no safety verdict in the text read source | 2025-05-15 |
When to get medical help
- Trouble breathing, swelling of the lips, face or throat, or widespread hives after eating or handling cardamom
- Sudden, severe pain in the upper right or middle belly in someone with gallstones (gallstone colic)
- A rash on the hands or fingers that keeps returning after handling cardamom or spice mixes
Stop using the product and contact a clinician or emergency service. In the US, Poison Control is 1-800-222-1222.
General information only, not medical advice. Ask a clinician or pharmacist before use, especially with medicines, in pregnancy or with a health condition. See the Natural Remedy Safety guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is cardamom good for?
Does cardamom lower cholesterol?
Does cardamom lower blood pressure?
Does cardamom help with type 2 diabetes?
Is cardamom safe if I have gallstones?
A consumer reference says not to take more than food amounts, because the seed can trigger gallstone colic. Ask your doctor before using supplements.
Is cardamom safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?
Can I be allergic to cardamom?
Does cardamom interact with medicines?
No cardamom-specific interaction study was found. A 2025 review urges monitoring for low blood sugar when herbs are used with diabetes drugs. Ask a pharmacist about supplements.
Is cardamom good for digestion?
It is used traditionally, but the reference we read rates the evidence for heartburn, gas and IBS as insufficient, and no digestion trial was found.
Does cardamom oil help with nausea?
Is green cardamom the same as black cardamom?
No. Black cardamom (Amomum subulatum) is a different plant. Results for one are not assumed to apply to the other.
How much nutrition is in a teaspoon of cardamom?
A teaspoon of ground cardamom (2.0 g) has about 6 kcal, 0.6 g fibre, 8 mg calcium, 0.3 mg iron, 22 mg potassium and 0.6 mg manganese by USDA values. It is mostly flavour.
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Editorial transparency
- Written by
- AlternativeMed editorial team. Research compiled with AI assistance, then checked against the sources listed.
- Medical review
- None. This page has not been reviewed by a physician or pharmacist.
- First published
- 2026-10-26
- Last substantive update
- 2026-10-26
- How we research
- We started from our existing cardamom summary, re-read nutrition at USDA FoodData Central, read a consumer reference and searched PubMed for reviews, trials and case reports. Only abstracts were read for studies, and one allergy paper had no abstract. Items we could not verify are flagged in the research gaps.
- How we rate evidence
- See "How we rate evidence" in the Evidence tab.
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Sources 20
Each source was opened and checked. Where we read only the abstract, it says so. The small numbers in the text point here.
- . Cardamom.. . 2006. PMID 40460231. (abstract)
- Aghasi M, Koohdani F, Qorbani M, et al.. Beneficial effects of green cardamom on serum SIRT1, glycemic indices and triglyceride levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a randomized double-blind placebo controlled clinical trial.. J Sci Food Agric. 2019. PMID 30701554. DOI 10.1002/jsfa.9617. (abstract)
- Azimi P, Ghiasvand R, Feizi A, et al.. Effect of cinnamon, cardamom, saffron and ginger consumption on blood pressure and a marker of endothelial function in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A randomized controlled clinical trial.. Blood Press. 2016. PMID 26758574. DOI 10.3109/08037051.2015.1111020. (abstract)
- Bernal-Rubio L, Martínez-Alonso E, Fernández-Lozano C, et al.. Identification of the Protein a-L-Fucosidase as the Possible Cause of Allergy to Cardamom.. J Investig Allergol Clin Immunol. 2024. PMID 38888582. DOI 10.18176/jiaci.0957. (title-only)
- Daneshi-Maskooni M, Keshavarz SA, Qorbani M, et al.. Green cardamom supplementation improves serum irisin, glucose indices, and lipid profiles in overweight or obese non-alcoholic fatty liver disease patients: a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial.. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2019. PMID 30871514. DOI 10.1186/s12906-019-2465-0. (abstract)
- Heydarian A, Tahvilian N, Shahinfar H, et al.. Effect of cardamom consumption on inflammation and blood pressure in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.. Food Sci Nutr. 2024. PMID 38268891. DOI 10.1002/fsn3.3738. (abstract)
- Hitl M, Radovanović K, Urumović K, et al.. Queen of Spices, Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum (L.) Maton, Zingiberaceae)-In Vitro Assessment of Biological Potential.. Molecules. 2026. PMID 42513114. DOI 10.3390/molecules31142430. (abstract)
- Kamalvand N, Shamsizadeh M, Tapak L, et al.. Comparison of the effect of ice sucking containing peppermint (Mentha piperita L.) with cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) extract on nausea, vomiting, and drug request after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.. Explore (NY). 2025. PMID 40967081. DOI 10.1016/j.explore.2025.103261. (abstract)
- Kazemi S, Yaghooblou F, Siassi F, et al.. Cardamom supplementation improves inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers in hyperlipidemic, overweight, and obese pre-diabetic women: a randomized double-blind clinical trial.. J Sci Food Agric. 2017. PMID 28480505. DOI 10.1002/jsfa.8414. (abstract)
- Khatiban M, Mirzaie M, Fazeli A, et al.. Effect of Cardamom Inhalation Therapy on Intra-and Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting of Mothers Undergoing Spinal Anesthesia for Elective Cesarean Section.. J Perianesth Nurs. 2022. PMID 35581106. DOI 10.1016/j.jopan.2021.09.008. (abstract)
- Li E, Maunder A, Liu J, et al.. The efficacy and safety of herbal medicines for glycaemic control and insulin resistance in individuals with type 2 diabetes: an umbrella review.. BMC Complement Med Ther. 2025. PMID 41029669. DOI 10.1186/s12906-025-05059-7. (abstract)
- Mobacken H, Fregert S. Allergic contact dermatitis from cardamom.. Contact Dermatitis. 1975. PMID 138507. DOI 10.1111/j.1600-0536.1975.tb05361.x. (abstract)
- Nasimi Doost Azgomi R, Karimi A, Moini Jazani A. The favorable impacts of cardamom on related complications of diabetes: A comprehensive literature systematic review.. Diabetes Metab Syndr. 2024. PMID 38325073. DOI 10.1016/j.dsx.2024.102947. (abstract)
- Natarajan RB, Kakkasery JT, Arimboor R, et al.. Development and validation of a GC-MS method for analysis of Dithiocarbamate Fungicide residues in the Spices Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomom) and black pepper (Piper nigrum).. J Food Sci Technol. 2022. PMID 36193354. DOI 10.1007/s13197-022-05462-9. (abstract)
- Shekarchizadeh-Esfahani P, Arab A, Ghaedi E, et al.. Effects of cardamom supplementation on lipid profile: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials.. Phytother Res. 2020. PMID 31755188. DOI 10.1002/ptr.6543. (abstract)
- Singh NJ, Kezer G, Horn MA, et al.. In vitro inhibition of Streptococcus mutans by cardamom essential oil.. Front Oral Health. 2026. PMID 42199993. DOI 10.3389/froh.2026.1796712. (abstract)
- Zhang X, Wang C, Min R, et al.. Cardamom consumption may improve cardiovascular metabolic biomarkers in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.. Nutr Res. 2024. PMID 38593657. DOI 10.1016/j.nutres.2024.03.002. (abstract)
- . GBIF Backbone: Elettaria cardamomum (L.) Maton (usageKey 2759871). . . (full-text)
- . RxList: Cardamom (consumer reference citing Natural Medicines). . . (full-text)
- . USDA FoodData Central: Spices, cardamom (FDC 170919). . . (full-text)
Where to buy
Check the label first. Whatever you buy, look for these:
- Whole or ground: whole spices keep their flavor longer
- The origin and a packed-on or best-by date for freshness
- Organic or non-irradiated labeling if that matters to you
- A resealable, airtight container
Talk to a pharmacist or doctor before you start any supplement, especially if you take medicines. See the Safety tab for interactions.
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