Cardamom

Ahhh, how I adore the scents of the holidays!  I thoroughly enjoy sipping a warm cup of coffee or tea in the morning as I contemplate my day.  Wafts of cinnamon and dark chocolate float around my house as we bake sweets and prepare decadent desserts.  I have long used Ginger essential oil in my cooking as well as my baking for added spice.  I also fancy how Ginger essential oil calms and soothes my sensitive stomach.  A cousin of Ginger is the spicy and warm Cardamom essential oil.  This green pod is native to India where it has long been used to make the infamous cup of Chi tea.  Don’t think this essential oil is solely meant for the kitchen!  Cardamom has many healing properties worthy of a spot in your medicine cabinet as well.  First, this essential oil contains antiseptic, astringent, digestive, stimulant and antimicrobial properties.  You could toss a drop or two in about 4 ounces of water and gargle for an awesome chemical free option to your typical mouthwash.  Not only will the Cardamom essential oil work to combat oral infections, it will also keep bad breath at bay.  Apply a few drops to your facial cleanser for an added punch and use alongside your shampoo to deter dandruff and maintain a healthy scalp.  Always dilute this particular essential oil before topical application because it has a warming effect on the skin.  The stimulant quality helps to fight depression and fatigue so try a few drops first thing in the A.M. to bust those wintertime blues.  Cardamom essential oil happens to be a fabulous antispasmodic so ask for this product during your next massage.  This oil can also encourage weight loss and a reduction in blood pressure.  Cardamom is one powerful plant so get yourself a bottle or come by the spa for a little introduction!