SPICE ROUTE

From fighting acne to curing digestion, Samreen Samad dictates which spices and condiments to stock in your kitchens and beauty cabinets

- Samreen Samad

Cardamom

Known as the 'queen of spices', cardamom is highly aromatic but gentle and fruity in flavour which is why it lends itself beautifully in both savoury and sweet dishes. A rich source of antioxidants, vitamin C and micronutrients, these pods offer a plethora of health and skin benefits.

HEALTH BENEFITS

Cardamom helps in fighting anaemia and maintaining blood pressure. “As it is a coolant, it also aids in digestion,” Pooja Ajwani, Delhi-based integrative nutritionist explains. She adds, “It cuts down fat and bloating, making it a great addition to rich foods like halwa, kheer and diary-based dishes.” It also works as a mouth freshener and is commonly used post meals in paan.

BEAUTY BENEFITS

The detoxifying spice helps to clear blemishes and fights the first signs of ageing. You can also use cardamom powder with honey as a facial mask to deep cleanse and purify the skin.

HOW TO USE

The fresh, fragrant green pods are ideal for steeping in coffee, tea or plain milk, and flavouring marinades and rice dishes.