Can We Eat Elaichi in Fast?

When we think of fasting in India—whether it’s Navratri, Ekadashi, or Shivratri—the biggest confusion is not about what to eat, but rather about what not to eat.

Certain foods, spices, and flavorings are considered sattvik (pure and light), while others are avoided because they are regarded as tamasic or heavy for digestion. Amidst these doubts, one question often arises: Can we eat elaichi (cardamom) during fast?

Let’s dive deeper to understand.

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What is Elaichi (Cardamom)?

Elaichi, or cardamom, is one of the most aromatic spices found in Indian kitchens. It comes in two main varieties:

• Green Elaichi (Chhoti Elaichi): Light, fragrant, and considered sattvik. Widely used in sweets, kheer, milk, and herbal teas.
• Black Elaichi (Badi Elaichi): Stronger in taste, smoky in aroma, and heavier in nature. This is mostly used in curries and rice dishes, not in fasting recipes.

Beyond flavor, elaichi has been valued in Ayurveda for centuries. It aids digestion, works as a mouth freshener, and even uplifts mood. No wonder it finds a place in both daily meals and festive foods.

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Is Elaichi Allowed in Fast?

The short answer is: Yes, green elaichi is allowed during fasting.

Being sattvik in nature, green cardamom is commonly added to vrat-friendly foods. You will often find it in sweets, milk preparations, kheer, ladoos, and herbal teas made during Navratri, Ekadashi, or Shivratri. Its mild aroma not only enhances the flavor but also helps calm the body and mind during fasting.

However, black elaichi is generally avoided, as it has a heavy, smoky flavor more suitable for gravies and pulao, which do not fall under vrat foods.

Also check out: Can We Eat Dairy Milk Chocolate in Fast?

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Ways to Consume Elaichi During Fast

Elaichi can be a versatile addition to your fasting meals. Here are some ways you can incorporate this fragrant spice into your vrat menu:

1. Add it to Milk: Elaichi can enhance the flavor of plain milk, a common beverage during fasts. You can also add elaichi to falooda, lassi, or buttermilk to enjoy a refreshing and flavorful drink.
2. Flavor Fasting Sweets: Elaichi is a popular ingredient in fasting sweets like sabudana kheer and makhane ki kheer. Its aroma elevates the flavor of these dishes, making them more enjoyable during your fast.
3. Chew Elaichi Seeds: If you’re feeling hungry or looking to freshen your breath, chewing on Elaichi seeds can be a simple solution. This natural spice offers a quick way to stay refreshed during fasting hours.
4. Herbal Teas: You can add elaichi to your herbal teas, especially ginger or tulsi tea, to enhance flavor while benefiting from its digestive properties.

Also check: Can We Eat Cheese in Fast?

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Precautions While Consuming Elaichi During Fast

While elaichi is generally safe and beneficial during fasts, there are a few precautions to keep in mind:

• Moderation is Key: Although elaichi offers many benefits, it should be consumed in moderation. Excessive use might not be necessary, as a little goes a long way in terms of flavor and health benefits.
• Avoid Elaichi-flavored Products: Be cautious when consuming Elaichi-flavored products like packaged teas, sweets, or syrups. These may contain added sugar or artificial flavors that are not allowed during fasting.

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Benefits of Elaichi During Fast

Aside from being permissible during fasts, elaichi offers a range of benefits that make it a useful ingredient while fasting:

Boosts Metabolism: Elaichi contains antioxidants and essential oils that boost metabolism, helping the body process food more efficiently during a fast.

Aids Digestion: During fasts, the body is limited to a restricted diet, which can sometimes lead to digestion issues. Elaichi helps improve digestion and prevents discomfort caused by eating starchy or high-fat fasting foods.

Relieves Acidity: When fasting, acidity can become a common problem due to changes in meal frequency and types of food. Cardamom has properties that help soothe the stomach lining and reduce acid production.

Freshens Breath: Fasting can sometimes lead to bad breath, especially if you’re not eating or drinking much throughout the day. Chewing elaichi can act as a natural breath freshener, keeping you feeling refreshed throughout your fast.

Also check Can We Eat Oats in Fast?

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Conclusion

So, Can We Eat Elaichi in Fast? Absolutely! Elaichi not only adds flavor to your fasting meals but also brings along a range of health benefits like improved digestion, relief from acidity, and natural breath freshness. Its versatility allows you to incorporate it into drinks, sweets, and other dishes to make your fasting experience both enjoyable and wholesome.

As always, ensure you’re mindful of how you’re consuming it and avoid products with additives. Enjoy the aroma and taste of elaichi in your vrat-friendly dishes, and let this little spice add flavor and goodness to your fasting journey!

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