Cardamon

Elettaria cardamomum

Origin: Equador
Family: Zingiberaceae
Part used: Seeds

A perennial from the ginger family which grows wild in southern India and Sri Lanka. The oil is extracted from the green, ovoid pods containing around 20 seeds each. Most of the world's production goes to Arab countries where it is largely used to flavour traditional coffee. While consumed throughout the world for centuries as a popular spice, its therapeutic use appears in ancient Sanskrit texts. The Babylonians and Assyrians recognised the health benefits of the spice early on and the Greek physicians Dioscorides and Hippocrates wrote about its therapeutic properties, identifying it as a digestive aid.
Overview
Fragrance notes
A fresh, woody, slightly camphoraceous, sweet aromatic spice with a hint of eucalyptus and a subtle nutty edge.

Blending notes
Blends well with: Ylang Ylang, Rose Maroc, Bergamot, Sandalwood.
History
Cardamon is native to southern India and Sri Lanka. First recorded use is around the eighth century, it has been found in Greek, Roman and Arabian cultures and used as a perfume in Egyptian times.
As well as the extensive culinary uses of cardamon seeds that began in Asia, they have been used in India and China for respiratory disease, digestive complaints and fever.
The essential oil of cardamon was first produced in the 16th Century, which is now popular for treating digestive disorders, respiratory problems and nervous tension.

Please note: The traditional uses listed here are for reference only and should not be taken as recommendations for treatment, or cure, of any disease or medical condition. Therapeutic plant oils are used to support natural body processes towards improved health and wellbeing.
Uses
Indigestion
Apply a few drops in 5mls of Olive oil to stomach or intestinal area, depending on condition, and massage in a clockwise direction. Repeat as required.

Diarrhoea
Application as above.

Gastric irritation and ulcers
Application as above.

Chills
Add a few drops to 1tsp of carrier oil and apply as a chest rub, or add 5 drops into a bath with other appropriate essential oils such as Eucalyptus Australiana or Thyme Thymol. Repeat as required.

Aphrodisiac
Add a few drops to a bath or diffuser blend including Ylang Ylang and/or Black Pepper. Therapeutic baths should not exceed 15 minutes.
Safety considerations
Avoid use during pregnancy. Safe to use with other medication when necessary. If accidentially ingested do not induce vomiting, follow with Olive oil or milk and seek advice from a health specialist. Avoid contact with eyes - flush with water. Keep out of reach of children.

Please note: Therapeutic plant oils are used to support natural body processes for optimum health and wellbeing. The information here is NOT meant as a recommendation to cure any medical condition or disease.
Ingredients
Key ingredients
100% pure Elettaria cardamomum, distilled fruit and seeds, Equador
Key component
Terpenyl acetate, 1,8-Cineol, Linalyl acetate, Linalool, Sabinene, Nerolidol