Allergen,Individual-FoodCardamonElettaria cardamomum

he Allergen, Individual-Food Cardamom test checks if someone has an allergy to cardamom, a popular spice. It looks for IgE antibodies in the blood, which the immune system produces in response to allergens. This test is helpful for people experiencing symptoms like hives, swelling, or stomach issues after consuming cardamom, as it can identify cardamom as the culprit and help them avoid it in the future. Although uncommon, cardamom allergy can even lead to a severe reaction called anaphylaxis, making this test important for those with suspected allergies.

Cardamom comes from a perennial bush belonging to the same family as ginger, and is one of the world’s oldest known spices. It is native to southern India. Cardamom is one of the world’s most expensive spices by weight, surpassed only by vanilla and saffron.

Cardamom is used extensively in various cuisine as a flavouring in sweets, baked goods and coffee, as well as liqueurs. It is also often used in baking. It is a common component of spice mixes, such as masalas and curry pastes. Individual seeds are sometimes chewed and used in much the same way as chewing gum.

Written by: Supriya Kulkarni, Lead-Content & Training

Reviewed by : Dr. Alap Christry M.D. AVP-Lab Operations & Scientific Business Head-Clinical Chemistry