Ayurvedic Herbal Preparations and Treatments: Lemon and Cardamom

For thousands of years, India has used cardamom as a digestive remedy. It is known as one of the oldest spices in the world, with a history that traces back to the ancient Egyptians, who used parts of the perennial to make perfume. In this article, you will learn of the many medical concerns treated with the help of cardamom and the trusty lemon.

Cardamom

Over the years, its use in the medicinal world has increased with Ayurvedic practitioners leading the way. They used the plant for thousands of years to aid digestive problems, as well as ease indigestion and gas. Since it possesses a pleasant taste, it was easy to accept as a digestive aid. Cardamom quickly became the herb of choice.

Currently, the Indians use cardamom to treat a variety of conditions, including kidney stones, bronchitis, asthma, and anorexia. The herb has also proven effective in fighting bad breath and when taken with garlic , it helps lessen the strong smell. The Chinese give the herb to patients battling urinary incontinence and for a tonic. Over the years, cardamom has also been known to bring on aphrodisiac qualities.

When treating medical problems, it is the seeds that produce the most results. When the seedpods are green in color, it is a good indication that the seeds are of a high quality. Propagated from the seed in the fall or by root in the spring or summer, cardamom thrives in shady spots and in well-drained soil that is full of nutrients and moist. The seedpods are harvested just before they begin to open due to the dryness of their climates of choice. The seeds are then dried whole in the sun.  

Lemon

Thought a native fruit of India, lemons not only keeps the common cold away, but also helps improve your body’s resistance to other illnesses. Lemons have much more to offer than just a boost of vitamin C. The fruit is packed with volatile oil, bioflavonoids, mucilage, and other essential vitamins, such as A and B. with a growing history that dates back to around the 2nd century AD, lemons tend to thrive in more subtropical climates around the world. Situated in well-drained soil and plenty of sunshine, the fruit comes from a small evergreen that reaches heights of 22 feet.

Ayurvedic practitioners use lemons because they possess antibacterial, antiseptic, and antioxidant properties. They can also reduce fever and treat an array of medical concerns. The fruit and peel are used to improve circulation, as well as build a resistance against infection. If you thought oranges were packed with vitamin C, the lemon offers two times the amount. The pith and peel is where you will find the majority of the volatile oil and bioflavanoids.

Lemon juice is pretty versatile in treating medical issues, such as chest infections, colds, and the flu. Acting as a tonic, it treats the liver and pancreas, and helps to improve the appetite of patients. Externally, the juice can ease the symptoms of athlete’s foot, insect stings, ringworm, warts, and sunburn. Other uses for the lemon include the treatment of: sore throats, canker sores, and gingivitis.