Effect of Greater cardamom (Amomum subulatum Roxb.) on blood lipids, fibrinolysis and total antioxidant status in patients with ischemic heart disease

ObjectiveGreater cardamom (Amomum subulatum Roxb.) fruit powder (seeds with pericarp) was evaluated for its effect on some of the cardiovascular risk factors in patients with ischemic heart disease.MethodsThirty male individuals (50-70 years) with ischemic heart disease (old MI>6 months) were selected for the study and divided into two groups of fifteen each. Group I (Treated) received 3 g cardamom powder in two divided doses while Group II (Placebo) received matched placebo capsules for 12 weeks. Blood samples were collected initially and at 6 and 12 weeks for analysis of lipid profile, fibrinolytic activity and total antioxidant status.ResultsAdministration of Greater cardamom significantly (P<0.001) reduced atherogenic lipids without significant alteration in HDL-cholesterol. Plasma fibrinolytic activity and serum total antioxidant status were also enhanced significantly (P<0.05) at the end of the study. The placebo group however did not show significant alteration in any of these parameters. It was tolerated well without any untoward effects.ConclusionsDietary supplementation of Greater cardamom favorably modifies lipid profile and significantly enhances fibrinolytic activity and total antioxidant status in patients with ischemic heart disease.