Cardamom Essential oil

Essential oil of Cardamom

Elettaria cardamomum

cardamom pods

Family:  Zingiberaceae

Origin: Indian subcontinent and Indonesia. Guatemala is the largest producer

Plant description: Leafy shoots of the cardamom plant arise 1.5 to 6 meters (5 to 20 feet) from the branching rootstock. Flowering shoots, approximately 1 meter (3 feet) long, may be upright or sprawling; each bears numerous flowers about 5 cm (2 inches) in diameter with greenish petals and a purple-veined white lip.

Part of plant used for essential oil: Seeds

Extraction Method: Steam Distilled

Main Chemical Constituents:  1,8-Cineole, a-Terpinyl Acetate, Linalyl acetate,Limonene, Linalool

PRECAUTIONS: Tisserand and Young indicate that due to its 1,8 cineole content, They caution against using Cardamon Oil on or near the face of infants and children.

PROPERTIES: Antiviral, antibacterial, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, immune stimulant, significant aphrodisiac

Uses:

Circulation/muscles/joints: pain relief in muscles, lowering blood pressure

Emotional: uplifting, energizing. Helps with stress, fatigue, depression, despair

Lymph/Immune: increases lymph drainage

Digestive: heart burn, warms the stomach, soothes nausea, dyspepsia, wind, colic and laxative

Cardamom is considered to be one of the world’s oldest spices. The use of this spice dates back at least 4000 years. Ancient Egyptians used Cardamom for many medicinal purposes, as part of rituals and even for embalming. They chewed cardamom pods as a way to help keep their breath minty and to help clean their teeth.

Things to Do with Cardamom Essential Oil

1. Aromatic Uplifter
   Add a few drops to your diffuser to fill your space with a warm, spicy aroma that boosts focus and mood.

2. DIY Massage Oil
   Mix cardamom essential oil with a carrier oil like jojoba or sweet almond oil for a soothing, invigorating massage blend. Perfect for easing tension and promoting relaxation.

3. Invigorating Shower Steam
   Place a few drops on a washcloth or shower mat and let the steam carry the spicy-citrusy scent around you to awaken your senses.

4. Digestive Aid Roll-On
   Dilute cardamom essential oil with a carrier oil and apply around your stomach area to help soothe occasional indigestion or nausea.

5. Magical Spell Jar Ingredient
   Combine cardamom oil with cinnamon and clove in a spell jar to invite prosperity and protection into your life.

6. DIY Spiced Candle
   Mix cardamom essential oil with beeswax or soy wax to create a homemade candle that fills your home with cozy, aromatic vibes.

7. Natural Air Freshener
   Add cardamom essential oil to water in a spray bottle for a refreshing, all-natural room spray that banishes unwanted odors.

8. Bath Blend
   Add a few drops to Epsom salts before adding to your bath for a luxurious soak that supports relaxation and mental clarity.

9. Hair Care Boost
   Dilute with a carrier oil and massage into your scalp to stimulate hair follicles and promote healthy hair growth with a spicy, fresh scent.

10. Enchanting Perfume
    Mix cardamom essential oil with vanilla and bergamot essential oils for a unique, warm, and uplifting personal scent that’s magically charming.

Embrace the spicy magic of cardamom essential oil and elevate your everyday rituals with its warming, uplifting energy!

Reference:

Cardamom essential oil. Benefits, Uses & Insights. (n.d.). https://www.aromaweb.com/essential-oils/cardamom-essential-oil.php

Farr, Karie. “The History of Cardamom | MySpicer.com | Spices, Herbs & Blends.” MySpicer | Spices, Herbs, Seasonings, 23 Jan. 2014, www.myspicer.com/history-cardamom/.

Robert Tisserand and Rodney Young, Essential Oil Safety (Second Edition. United Kingdom: Churchill Livingstone Elsevier, 2014), 232.

Valerie Ann Worwood. The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy : Over 800 Natural, Nontoxic, and Fragrant Recipes to Create Health, Beauty, and Safe Home and Work Environments. Novato, California, New World Library, 2016.