This member of the Ginger family (Zingiberaceae) hails from India. Interestingly, Guatemala is the largest exporter of Cardamom seedpods today, followed by India. The seeds have an incredibly strong, aromatic, almost intoxicating aroma and while black Pepper was called the King of Spices, Cardamom has been called the Queen. The seeds have been traded as a commodity and are reputed to be the third most expensive spice by weight next to saffron and vanilla. It has found its way into regional cuisine in India, Southeast Asia, China, Finland, and many other countries. One of the most refreshing ways to experience Cardamom is to drink a fine cup of Chai spiced with cardamom. The seeds contain a very high amount of volatile oils, characteristic of so many of the aromatic plants and have been used medicinally as a digestive aid by most cultures.