India, Nov. 24 -- I n many Indian households, ending a meal with a pod of cardamom, or elaichi, is a cherished tradition. While it may seem like a simple habit, this small green spice has a long and fascinating history. Revered for centuries in Ayurveda and traditional cooking, cardamom's sweet fragrance and rich taste has earned it the title 'queen of spices.' But beyond its aromatic charm, cardamom is valued for its natural healing properties, making it much more than just a palate-pleasing garnish. Cardamom is rich in antioxidants, which help the body combat damage caused by toxins, according to Healthline. It is believed to support the liver and kidneys, the organs responsible for filtering waste, and may enhance their ability to eliminate impurities. While chewing a cardamom pod after meals isn't a detox cure, including it in your diet can contribute to better metabolic balance and a cleaner internal system over time. One of cardamom's benefits is its ability to soothe the stomach. The spice contains essential oils and compounds such as cineole, which encourage the body to produce digestive enzymes. These enzymes break down food more efficiently, helping prevent bloating, gas, or acidity. Cardamom also relaxes stomach muscles, providing relief after heavy or oily meals, making it a natural digestive ally. Chewing cardamom helps freshen breath, thanks to its aromatic oils that combat bacteria responsible for bad odours. In addition, cardamom stimulates saliva production, which helps clear leftover food particles, promoting cleaner breath and better oral hygiene, without any artificial additives. HTC...