Cardamom

Cardamom, scientifically known as Elettaria cardamomum, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to the evergreen forests of India, Nepal, and Bhutan. Belonging to the ginger family (Zingiberaceae), it is renowned for its aromatic seeds, which are widely used as a spice in both culinary and medicinal applications. The plant typically grows up to 3 meters in height and features large, lance-shaped leaves with clusters of small, white or pale green flowers. The seeds, housed within small pods, emit a sweet, spicy fragrance and possess a warm, slightly citrusy flavor. Cardamom is valued for its culinary versatility, adding depth to both savory and sweet dishes, and is also treasured for its purported health benefits, including digestive aid and breath freshening properties.