Latin Name:  Elettaria cardamomum
Part of Plant:  Seed
Country of Origin: Guatemala
Method of Production:  Hydrodiffusion
Cardamom, also known as Small Cardamom and often referred to as the “Queen of Spices”, is native to southern India and is a member of the Zingiberaceae botanical family that also includes Ginger and Turmeric.  The seeds of the plant have been used for thousands of years as a culinary spice and it has been said to be one of the most popular and expensive spices traded on the ancient spice routes. It is from the dried seeds that the essential oil is also produced
 
Cardamom essential oil has an uplifting, warm, sweet, and spicy aroma that blends well with most citrus, wood, and other spice oils.  It is popular in perfumery and in blends for diffusing during the fall and winter months. Try diffusing with Orange or Mandarin for a refreshing and invigorating aroma to finish out your afternoon.  Properly dilute in a lotion or carrier oil for a warm, soothing massage after a long day. 
 
Usage ideas:
Add a few drops of essential oils to a diffuser, cotton round, or a tissue.
Dilute to 1% in your choice of carrier oils to make a face serum or body oil.  Apply a small amount to damp skin after washing to help seal in moisture.  
Add 5-15 drops to 1 oz. of your choice of carrier oils to make a massage oil.
Mix a few drops with an unscented liquid soap or bubble bath and add to the tub when filling. 
For convenience on the go…
Properly dilute with your choice of carrier oils in a roller bottle.
Add up to a total of 15 drops of essential oils to a personal aromatic inhaler (aroma stick).
 
Safety: 
Do not apply to or near the face of infants or young children. 
If you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor’s care, please consult with a healthcare professional prior to use.  Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas.
Keep out of reach of children and pets.  If swallowed, seek medical attention or contact a Poison Control Center.  Do not use undiluted essential oils topically. Possible skin sensitivity.  Do not use on broken skin. Watch for any possible interactions or side effects.  Discontinue use if any reaction including skin irritation occurs and if condition persists, seek medical attention.  Be sure you are familiar with all safety precautions including any recommended dermal maximums before use.  
 
DISCLAIMER: 
This product is not intended to treat, cure, or prevent any disease.  The information on this site is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and is for educational and informational purposes only.  These statements have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA).

 
References:
Sheppard-Hanger, S. (1995). The Aromatherapy Practitioner Reference Manual. Atlantic Institute of Aromatherapy
 
Tisserand, R. and Young, R. (2014). Essential Oil Safety: A Guide for Health Care Professionals, Second Edition. Churchill Livingstone
 
Battaglia, S. (2018). The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy, Vol 1 - Foundations & Materia Medica, Third Edition. Black Pepper Creative