Question
I have been told that cardamon is an herb.  Can you tell me what it is and how it is used.
Thank you.

Answer
Dear Leoma,

Here is some information on Cardamon:

Botanical Name: Elettaria cardamomum

Family: Zingiberaceae.

Part of plant used: Dried ripe fruits (seeds)

Method of Extraction: Steam distillation.

Place of Origin: Asia.

Description: A leafy stemmed shrub up to four metres high with very long leaves bearing small, yellow flowers with purple tips. The oblong, grey fruit contain many seeds and are gathered just before they are ripe.

Characteristics: A sweet-spicy, warm fragrance, with a woody-balsamic note.

Properties: Antiseptic, antispasmodic, carminative, cephalic, digestive, diuretic, expectorant, stimulant, stomachic, tonic.

Blends well with: Bergamot, black pepper, cajeput, eucalyptus, fennel, frankincense, geranium, ginger, juniper, lemon, myrtle, peppermint, pine, rosewood, tea tree, thyme.

Precautions: Non-toxic, non-irritant and non-sensitising.

If I may be of further assistance please do not hesitate to contact me.

Best Regards,
Karen