Definition of Cardamom

by POPSUGAR Beauty 2

Want something delicious to eat and lovely to smell? Cardamom comes from seeds inside the husks of a flowering plant. Native to India, it has a strong scent and taste. It is used in both cooking and medicine and can be ground up and baked in a wood-burning oven, or it can be pressed to create an oil.

Cardamom also has a cooling property, similar to mint, however not quite as strong. It is one of the more expensive spices (actually, it's right behind saffron) and is in the same family as ginger. Medicinally, it is used as an antiseptic and to treat heartburn, nausea and stomach disorders. Chewing cardamom can improve bad breath, too.

In fragrances, the oil often used in small quantities (since it's aroma is so strong) and is typically blended with geranium and rose. Since it's such a powerful spice, those with sensitive skin should do a patch test before applying directly on your body.

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