Black cardamom

Amomum subulatum

Traditionally attributed effects: stomachic, carminative, stimulates the heart, expectorant; for digestive complaints, liver congestion, tooth and gum complaints, kidney stones (with melon seed), inflamed eyelids; flavouring.

Safety notes

Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Preparation

Seeds 0.6–1 g; oil on the eyelid; decoction as a gargle.

Use in traditions

Described in the Ayurvedic materia medica. Sanskrit name: Elabari. The large, smoky pods are dried over fire and give garam masala and biryani a smoky taste. In Tibetan medicine (ka ko la) and Unani medicine (heel kalan) they are used for stomach complaints. Most of it comes from Sikkim and Nepal.

Applications

Use by tradition

How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.

Ayurvedic materia medica

Attributed effects

Stomachic, carminative, stimulates the heart, expectorant; for digestive complaints, liver congestion, tooth and gum complaints, kidney stones (with melon seed), inflamed eyelids; flavouring.

Preparation and amount

Seeds 0.6–1 g; oil on the eyelid; decoction as a gargle.

Ways to prepare herbs: Decoction

Sources

All herbs from Asia →