Cardamom is an intensely aromatic spice from the tropical plant Elettaria cardamomum. It is recognized by seed pods with thin, papery shells and small black seeds inside. The seeds are considered the spice, which is used for many culinary purposes. Cardamom production began in ancient times; the Babylonians and Assyrians valued its health benefits, as did the Greeks, who used it as a digestive aid. It is considered one of the world’s most expensive spices, behind saffron and vanilla.