World Journal of
Pharmaceutical and Life Sciences

CARDAMOM: THE QUEEN OF SPICES

Kuntal Gupta and Neelakshi Pal*

ABSTRACT

Cardamom is a spice common in the Indian kitchen which comprises a number of active ingredients possessing many pharmacological effects. The general benefits are anti-microbial, anti-inflammation, analgesic, anti-nociceptive, anxiolytic and anti-cancer properties. In addition, 1,8-cineol prevents mucus formation, treats COPD and inhibits myeloperoxidase activity. Pinenes are advantageous in osteoarthritis, sleep enhancement and nephrological disorders. Alpha-terpineol is considered helpful in gastric disorders like ulcer, skin irritation and sciatic nerve pain. Humulene can help fight diabetes, fatty liver, obesity and tumours. Myrcene combats hypertension, diabetes and inflammation. Alpha-terpinyl acetate treats skin problems and inhibits cholinesterase enzymes. Menthone is used in curing irritable bowel syndrome. Sabinene can undo oedema and prevent fungal growth. Heptane has an adverse effect of deteriorating central nervous system coordination. Borneol is capable of angiogenesis and neurogenesis. Borneol and limonene can be used in nano-based drugs. So, the above properties and therapeutic effects of the ingredients of cardamom, these can be incorporated into medicines and used for treatment purposes. These properties enable provision of proper treatment in the concerned diseases.

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