How do you make cardamom water for weight loss?

December 18, 2025 •

4 min read

Used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine for its potent health benefits, cardamom is a powerful spice. Learning how do you make cardamom water for weight loss is a simple process that harnesses the spice's metabolism-boosting, antioxidant-rich properties.

Quick Summary

Crush green cardamom pods and infuse them in hot or lukewarm water to create a metabolism-boosting drink. Consume this aromatic water daily to aid digestion, reduce bloating, and support weight management goals.

Key Points

Metabolism Booster: Cardamom's thermogenic properties may help increase your body's metabolic rate, aiding in more efficient calorie burning.
Supports Digestion: Active compounds in cardamom stimulate digestive enzymes, reducing bloating and indigestion for better gut health.
Natural Diuretic: Cardamom's diuretic qualities help eliminate excess water and toxins, which can reduce water retention and bloating.
Curbs Appetite: The aromatic compounds in cardamom may help suppress cravings, especially for sweets, assisting with appetite control.
Simple Preparation: Make a quick hot brew or a refreshing overnight soak with crushed cardamom pods and water for an easy daily drink.
Holistic Approach: Cardamom water works best as a supplement to a balanced diet and regular exercise, not a standalone weight loss solution.

The Science Behind Cardamom for Weight Loss

Cardamom, or 'elaichi', contains bioactive compounds that may aid weight loss by affecting the body in several ways. Firstly, its thermogenic properties can gently increase the body's metabolic rate, which helps burn calories more efficiently. Research has confirmed cardamom's ability to modulate metabolic processes. Secondly, it functions as a natural diuretic, assisting the body in flushing out excess water and toxins, which can reduce bloating and give a leaner appearance. Lastly, cardamom's aromatic compounds may help curb appetite and reduce cravings, particularly for sweets. It is important to remember that cardamom water is a supportive tool and not a standalone solution. It must be combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise for optimal results.

Method 1: Classic Cardamom Water (Hot Brew)

This method is perfect for a warm, soothing drink that can be enjoyed throughout the day or before bed.

Ingredients: 4-5 green cardamom pods, 2 cups of water.
Preparation: Gently crush the cardamom pods using a mortar and pestle or the flat side of a knife to release the seeds and aromatic oils.
Cooking: In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Once simmering, add the crushed pods.
Simmer: Reduce the heat and let the water simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavour to infuse completely.
Serve: Strain the water into a mug and drink warm.

Method 2: Overnight Soaked Cardamom Water

For those who prefer a cool, refreshing drink to kickstart their day, this overnight method is ideal.

Ingredients: 2-3 green cardamom pods, 1 glass of water.
Preparation: Lightly crush the pods and add them to a glass of water.
Soak: Cover the glass and let it sit overnight to allow the flavours to infuse naturally.
Serve: In the morning, strain the water and drink it on an empty stomach to boost digestion and metabolism.

Comparison Table: Hot Brew vs. Overnight Soak


Feature	Hot Brew Method	Overnight Soak Method
Preparation Time	10-15 minutes on the stove	5 minutes to set up, minimal active time
Taste Profile	More potent and concentrated flavour profile	Milder, more subtle flavour infusion
Temperature	Served warm, ideal for a soothing evening drink	Served chilled or at room temperature, perfect for morning
Best For	Quickly making a fresh batch; maximizing aromatic compounds	Preparing in advance; kickstarting your day with a detox drink
Equipment	Saucepan, stove, strainer, mug	Glass, spoon, optional strainer

How to Enhance Your Cardamom Water

While pure cardamom water is effective, adding a few extra ingredients can amplify its flavour and weight loss benefits.

Lemon: Squeezing fresh lemon juice into warm cardamom water can enhance flavour and add a dose of Vitamin C. Lemon is also known to aid digestion.
Mint Leaves: For a refreshing twist, add a few fresh mint leaves to your overnight soak or hot brew. Mint can also aid digestion and soothe the stomach.
Ginger: Adding a small piece of grated ginger while simmering your hot brew can further boost metabolism due to ginger's thermogenic properties.
Cinnamon Stick: A small cinnamon stick can be added to the hot brew for a complex flavour and additional metabolism-boosting benefits.

Practical Tips for Success

Consistency is Key: For potential benefits related to digestion and metabolism, incorporate cardamom water into your daily routine.
Choose Whole Pods: Using whole pods that you crush yourself often yields a fresher, more potent flavour and a higher concentration of beneficial compounds.
Moderation: While generally safe, consuming excessive amounts can cause digestive issues. Stick to the recommended amount of 2-5 pods per day.
Combine with a Healthy Lifestyle: Cardamom water is a supplement, not a magic solution. Pair it with a balanced diet and exercise for the best weight loss outcomes.
Listen to Your Body: If you have a pre-existing medical condition, especially gallstones, or are pregnant, consult a healthcare provider before making it a regular part of your diet.

Conclusion

Making cardamom water is a simple and effective way to potentially support your weight loss journey. By brewing or soaking crushed cardamom pods, you can create a flavourful beverage that aids digestion, boosts metabolism, and helps manage cravings. Whether you choose a soothing hot brew or a refreshing overnight soak, integrating this simple habit into a healthy lifestyle can provide a natural and aromatic boost toward your fitness goals. Always approach weight loss with a holistic perspective, combining dietary changes, exercise, and hydration. For more information on combining spices for health benefits, you might want to visit Healthshots' article on cardamom benefits for weight loss.

Citations

Frequently Asked Questions

For best results, many people drink cardamom water first thing in the morning on an empty stomach to kickstart their metabolism and aid digestion throughout the day.

Yes, you can use cardamom powder, but using freshly crushed whole pods is often recommended for a fresher, more potent flavour and to maximise the release of beneficial oils.

While moderation is key, a general guideline is to use 2-5 green cardamom pods per day, which can be brewed into water or chewed whole.

Yes, cardamom water is known for its ability to reduce bloating by improving digestion and acting as a diuretic to reduce water retention.

While generally safe in moderation, excessive intake can cause digestive issues like nausea or stomach discomfort. Individuals with gallstones or allergies should consult a doctor.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before consuming cardamom water, as excessive intake may have potential side effects.

Cardamom water is not a magic solution. Any potential benefits for weight loss occur gradually as part of a healthy, balanced lifestyle that includes diet and exercise.