Cardamom Side Effects

Cardamom Side Effects
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Cardamom seed, which is also known as Elettaria cardamomum, is an herbal supplement that when added to tea can help aid in digestion or alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort. The safety and effectiveness of this herbal medication have not been evaluated or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Before taking this herb, patients should discuss the potential cardamom side effects with a doctor.

No Side Effects

The majority of people who use cardamom as a digestive aid or as a natural food spice do not experience any side effects. Health officials with RxList, an Internet drug index for consumers, note that while cardamom is safe for most users, the side effects of this herbal medicine are unknown. Patients who are concerned about cardamom side effects should discuss any questions they have with a medical professional before beginning to use this medicinal herb.

Gallbladder Pain

Patients who have gallbladder stones may experience sensations of abdominal pain after taking a dose of cardamom, explains Flora Health, an online herb and supplement encyclopedia. Additional studies examining the use of cardamom in patients with gallbladder stones are necessary to support this finding. Patients with medical conditions that involve the gallbladder should contact a doctor for further guidance before beginning treatment with cardamom.

Allergic Reaction

Patients who take cardamom may experience an allergic reaction to this medicinal herb. Side effects of an allergic reaction are serious and can include breathing difficulties, chest discomfort, hives or swelling of the skin, explains PDR Health, a website affiliated with the "Physicians' Desktop Reference." Patients who experience any of these allergic reaction side effects after taking cardamom should seek emergency medical care immediately to prevent additional medical complications.

References

Article reviewed by Libby Swope Wiersema Last updated on: May 2, 2011

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