Garam Masala Histamine Information

Garam Masala, a blend of ground spices common in Indian cuisine, has variable impacts on histamine levels depending on its ingredients. The typical components of Garam Masala include cumin, coriander, cardamom, black pepper, cloves, and nutmeg. Some variants may contain bay leaves, caraway, and mace. Cumin, a staple component in many Garam Masala blends, is reported to possess anti-histaminic properties, potentially reducing histamine levels [1]. Coriander contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory phytochemicals, which can potentially suppress inflammatory responses, including histamine release. However, concrete scientific evidence to clarify the correlation between coriander and histamine levels is sparse [2]. Black pepper and cardamom also contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, possibly mediating their effects on histamine [3][4]. However, the information about these spices' impact on histamine levels specifically is limited. Cloves and nutmeg also contain various beneficial phytochemicals. Some research suggests clove oil can inhibit the inflammatory mediator cyclooxygenase-2, potentially reducing histamine release [5]. Nutmeg's impact on histamine is not well-defined in the scientific literature without any clear evidence to suggest it significantly impacts histamine levels. In the instances where spices used in Garam Masala fall into categories you mentioned, it's essential to consider individual responses, tolerance levels, and the concentration of specific spices used in the blend. Every individual has a unique response and tolerance towards histamines and histamine receptors. [1] Essential oil from seeds of Cuminum cyminum: Potential Antihistaminic (antiallergic) activity, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3868309/ [2] Ethnopharmacological studies of indigenous plants in Kel village, Neelum Valley, Azad Kashmir, Pakistan, https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s13002-017-0198-8 [3] Black pepper and its pungent principle-piperine: A review of diverse physiological effects, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17987447 [4] Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) and its active constituent, Cineole, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5380846/ [5] Anti-inflammatory and anti-histaminic study of a unani eye drop formulation, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3523535/