Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) has been used traditionally in various systems of medicine, such as Ayurveda and Unani, to alleviate digestive complaints including belching, bloating, and indigestion. The spice is believed to have carminative properties—that is, it helps to reduce gas formation in the gastrointestinal tract and facilitates its expulsion, thereby reducing belching. Classical Ayurvedic texts mention cardamom as an ingredient in formulations intended to relieve "Ajeerna" (indigestion) and "Udavarta" (upward movement of wind), which correlates with symptoms like belching and bloating. The essential oils in cardamom, especially cineole and terpinene, are thought to relax the stomach lining and help in the expulsion of trapped gas. Modern scientific studies directly evaluating cardamom for belching are limited. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest that cardamom extracts can stimulate digestive enzymes and have antispasmodic effects on the gastrointestinal tract, which could theoretically reduce symptoms like belching. However, robust clinical trials in humans specifically focusing on belching are lacking. In summary, cardamom’s use for belching is primarily supported by traditional use and anecdotal evidence, with some plausible mechanisms suggested by preclinical research. The overall evidence is weak by modern scientific standards, but it holds a valued place in traditional digestive remedies.

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