Cardamom Oil

Cardamom Oil (Elettaria cardamomum) is a highly aromatic essential oil obtained from the seeds of the cardamom fruit. Known for its sweet, spicy, and slightly balsamic fragrance, this oil has been valued for centuries in traditional medicine systems, perfumery, and culinary cultures. It is especially regarded for its digestive, stimulant, and expectorant properties.

The oil is clear to pale yellow in color with a light, watery viscosity, making it ideal for blending in aromatherapy and topical applications when properly diluted.

Cultivation & Harvesting

• Native to India and Sri Lanka

• Cultivated throughout tropical regions

• Seeds harvested just before ripening for optimal oil yield

• Oil yield ranges from 1–5%

Botany

• Perennial, reed-like herb reaching up to 4 meters in height

• Long green leaves, yellowish flowers with violet tips

• Produces oblong gray fruits containing aromatic seeds

• Member of the Zingiberaceae (ginger) family

Aroma & Characteristics

• Aroma: Sweet, spicy, warm, slightly balsamic

• Color: Clear to pale yellow

• Viscosity: Thin to watery

Chemical Composition

Key constituents include α-pinene, β-pinene, sabinene, myrcene, limonene, 1,8-cineole, γ-terpinene, p-cymene, linalool, linalyl acetate, terpinen-4-ol, α-terpineol, citronellol, nerol, geraniol, methyl eugenol, and trans-nerolidol.

Therapeutic Properties

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

Uses & Preparations

• Used in aromatherapy to support digestion, mental clarity, and fatigue

• Included in massage oils to warm and stimulate the body

• Beneficial in vapor therapy for coughs and respiratory support

• Commonly used as a general tonic in wellness formulations

History & Traditional Use

Cardamom has been used since ancient times by Egyptian, Roman, and Arab cultures. Egyptians incorporated it into perfumes and oral hygiene, Romans used it to ease digestion, and Arabs traditionally added it to coffee. The essential oil was first distilled in 1544 by Valerius Cordus following European exploration of the East.

Precautions

Non-toxic, non-irritant, and non-sensitizing when used as directed.
For external use only. Always dilute before topical application.
Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before use during pregnancy or if under medical supervision.