Sanskrit Name: Brihat Ela
Devanagari Name: बड़ी इलायची
Botanical Name: Amomum subulatum
English Name: Black Cumin
Description:
Black Cardamom, known in India as ‘Badi Elaichi’, is a widely used spice in households for preparing various dishes and is a key ingredient in Garam Masala.
This spice ranges in color from dark brown to black and is characterized by its small, sticky appearance with tough, wrinkled skin.
Cultivated primarily in regions like Nepal, Sikkim, and parts of Darjeeling, Black Cardamom seeds are typically harvested in September-October from shaded, forest-loamy soils.
The seeds take about 25 to 30 days to germinate after planting, and they are ready for cultivation once the outer covering turns brown.
It serves as an expectorant, aiding in the elimination of excess kapha from the respiratory system. Additionally, it can help alleviate cough, breathlessness, and pain while breathing, and may also be beneficial for treating asthma symptoms and respiratory spasms.
Benefits – through the lens of Ayurveda:
- Deepana – Appetizer
- Pachana – Digestive
- Shwasahara – Relieves respiratory issues (like cough, asthma)
- Krimighna – Antiparasitic / Vermifuge
- Ruchya – Enhances taste perception
- Hridya – Cardiotonic (supports heart function)
- Kaphaghna – Pacifies Kapha dosha
- Vatanulomana – Normalizes Vata movement
- Anulomaka – Supports proper expulsion of bodily wastes
- Shothahara – Anti-inflammatory (reduces swelling)
Main Chemical Components:
- 1,8-cineole
- α-terpineol
- Borneol
Nutritional Components:
- Carbohydrates
- Fiber
- Calcium
- Potassium
Medical Conditions(Relief):
- Black is used in Ayurveda to treat conditions related to the skin, such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
- It is also used to treat digestive issues like indigestion, bloating, and constipation.
- Black is considered to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Medical Conditions(Avoid):
- Black should be avoided in individuals with allergies to the plant or those prone to skin irritations.
- It is also contraindicated for people with a sensitive stomach or those with gastrointestinal ulcers.
References:
- Kaiyadeva Nighantuh Prof. Priyavrata Sharma and Dr. guru Prasada Sharma Chaukhambha Orientalia Varanasi Reprint, 2013.
- Nighantu aadarsa vol-2 by Bapalala. G. Vaidya Chaukhambha Bharati Academy reprint, 2009.
- Haritakyadi Nighantu, edited by Khemraj Shrikrishnadas, Mumbai, 2000.
- Bhavaprakasa Nighantu of Sri Bhavamisra, commentary by Padmshri prof. K. C. Chunekar edited by Dr. G. S. Pandey. Chaukhambha Bharati Academy Varanasi. Reprint, 2015.
- Priyanighantu by Prof. Priya Vrata Sharma, Chaukhamba Surbharati prakashan, Varanasi. Edition, 2004.
- Rajanighantu of Pandit Narahari, edited with Dravyagunaprakashika, Hindi commentary by Dr.Indradeva Tripathi, Chowkhamba Krishnadas Academy, Varanasi, 2010.
- Parveen U, Jahangir U, Maaz M, Mujeeb M. Biological and therapeutic uses of Amomum subulatum Roxb. EJBPS. 2018;5(1):167-76.
- Gautam N, Bhattarai RR, Khanal BKS, Oli P.Technology, Chemistry and Bioactive Properties of Large Cardamom (Amomum subulatum Roxb.): An Overview. Int J Appl Sci Biotechnol, 2016;4(2):139-149.
- Gopal K, Baby R, Ali M. Amomum subulatum roxb:An overview in all aspects. International research journal of pharmacy, 2012; 3(7): 96-99
- Ali HSS, unani advia mufrada. Lahoti prints adds,1979; 41.
- Bhist VK, Negi JS, Bhandari AK, Sundriyal RC. Amomum subulatum Roxb: Traditional, phytochemical. African Journal of Agricultural Research, 2011; 6(24): 5386-5390.
- Singh AI, Pothula AK. Postharvest Processing of Large Cardamom in the Eastern Himalaya. International Mountain Society, 2011; 33(4): 453-462.
- K.R.Aneja. Antimicrobial Activity of Amomum subulatum and Elettaria cardamomum. Ethnobotanical Leaflets, 13, 2009; 01: 840-49.