Cardamom as a Versatile Spice: Its Benefits in Balinese Traditional Medicine

Cardamom is one of the spices known for its distinctive strong aroma and slightly sweet taste. The seeds of this plant are often used in cooking and traditional medicine across various parts of the world. In Balinese tradition, the benefits of cardamom are also recorded in the ancient manuscript Taru Pramana, which is a classical Balinese text that describes various types of plants used as herbal medicine to treat various diseases.

In the Taru Pramana manuscript, cardamom is mentioned as one of the medicinal plants with extraordinary properties. The etymology of the word "taru" means tree or plant, while "pramana" means power or strength. Thus, Taru Pramana describes plants with healing properties. One of the recorded uses of cardamom in this manuscript is its use to help facilitate the childbirth process in the form of a herbal drink.

Cardamom Pods (Source: Personal Collection)

Cardamom comes from the plant Elettaria cardamomum, which is part of the ginger family. This plant thrives in tropical areas, including India, which is its country of origin. Today, cardamom has spread to many countries and is an essential part of Middle Eastern, European, and Southeast Asian cuisines. The plant can grow up to 1.5 meters in height, with lance-shaped, dark green leaves. The dried cardamom seeds, which are used as spices, have a unique aroma and taste that make them special.

Cardamom is not only used in medicine but is also a part of many dishes across various cultures. In India and the Middle East, cardamom is a must-have spice for curry dishes and drinks like chai tea. Meanwhile, in Northern Europe, it is often used in traditional pastries.

Cardamom Pods (Source: Personal Collection)

Health Benefits of Cardamom

1. As an Antimicrobial
   The essential oil of cardamom has antimicrobial properties that are effective against various bacteria and fungi. Studies show that this oil can damage bacterial cell membranes, making it a promising natural remedy for infections.
   
2. Managing Metabolic Syndrome and Diabetes
   Cardamom can help manage metabolic syndrome, which includes conditions like obesity, hypertension, and high cholesterol. Research on animals and humans shows that consuming cardamom can aid in weight loss, improve good cholesterol levels, and reduce inflammation.
   
3. Heart Health
   Some studies suggest that cardamom can protect the heart from damage due to its antioxidant properties. In animal studies, cardamom significantly reduced cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
   
4. Supporting Kidney Health
   As a natural diuretic, cardamom helps cleanse the urinary tract, bladder, and kidneys from toxins and waste. Its detoxifying effects contribute to the maintenance of these vital organs.
   
5. Improving Oral Health
   Cardamom is often used as a natural breath freshener. Its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties help combat bacteria that cause bad breath, cavities, and gum disease.
   
6. Supporting Liver Function
   In Ayurvedic medicine, cardamom is known as a detoxifying agent for the liver. Studies show that consuming cardamom can enhance liver function, especially in individuals with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
   

How to Prepare Cardamom as an Herbal Drink

There are various ways to process cardamom into a beneficial herbal drink, one of which is boiling it with cinnamon to create a drink full of health benefits. Here are the steps to make the herbal drink:

Ingredients for Preparing Cardamom (Source: Personal Collection)

1. Prepare the Ingredients

a) 5 cardamom pods. Cardamom has a distinct aroma that can provide a refreshing flavor to the herbal drink.

b) 1 stick of cinnamon. Cinnamon acts as a complement, adding natural sweetness while providing additional benefits such as regulating blood sugar levels.

c) 500 ml of water. Ensure that you use clean, boiled or mineral water for the best results.

2. Wash the Cardamom and Cinnamon

Before starting, make sure to wash the cardamom and cinnamon thoroughly under running water. This step helps ensure the spices are clean, removing any dust or dirt that may be attached, resulting in a hygienic and healthy drink.

3. Boil Water and Add the Spices

Pour 500 ml of water into a pot and heat it until it boils. Then, add the 5 cleaned cardamom pods along with 1 stick of cinnamon. Let the water simmer over low heat for 10–15 minutes to extract the active compounds from the spices. This process will release a fragrant aroma and distinctive flavor.

Cardamom and Cinnamon Boiled Water Result (Source: Personal Collection)

4. Strain and Serve

Once the boiling is done, strain the water to separate the spices from the liquid. Pour the drink into a cup or glass, and serve while still warm. The nutrients and active compounds in cardamom can help boost metabolism, warm the body, and aid digestion.

As part of the traditional medicine heritage recorded in the Taru Pramana manuscript, cardamom proves that everyday spices have the potential to support health. This simple recipe provides insight into how to use cardamom as a beneficial herbal drink while enriching our appreciation for traditional medicine.