Black Cardamom (Badi Elaichi): Uses, Benefits, Side Effects and More!

Introduction

Amomum subulatom Roxburgh, commonly known as large cardamom or black cardamom, is one of the well known spices. This spice is reported to be originated from the Eastern Himalayas region, and certain wild species of black cardamom are still found in this region. It is widely found in Bhutan, Nepal and India. The largest producer of cardamom is Sikkim, in India, which alone contributes to about 50% of the world’s production of black cardamom^1,2.

Due to its pleasing aroma, it is extensively used for flavouring many food preparations. The name large cardamom is given to black cardamom as it is being cultivated at a large scale has a higher position in the trade. Large cardamom is called greater cardamom in English, Badi Ilayachi (Badi elaichi) in Hindi, Sthulaila, Bhadraila in Sanskrit, Bara Ilachi in Bangla, Kattelam and Perelam in Tamil, Peralam in Malayalam, Periya Elam, Didda yelakki in Kannada and Pedda Yelakaya in Telegu².

Nutritional Value of Black Cardamom

Composition and nutritional value of black cardamom³.

• Protein: 9.3%
• Total Fat: 1.7%
• Total Carbohydrate: 73.9%

Properties of Black Cardamom

This spice has gained importance as it possesses curative properties, as cited in the Unani and Ayurveda medicine systems. It has several beneficial properties like:

• It may be a potential analgesic or pain-relieving
• May have antiulcer potential
• May have antimicrobial potential
• May be an effective antioxidant and free radical scavenger
• May have the potential to reduce the levels of lipids and lipoproteins in the blood
• May have anti-inflammatory potential
• May have the potential to protect heart^1,3

Spice up your dishes with black cardamom! It’s aromatic charm and delightful flavour make it a perfect addition to your meals and drinks. Black cardamom is used to add a pleasant aroma and flavour to a variety of dishes, including vegetables, meat, confectionery, pickles and beverages. It enhances the overall taste experience of these foods, making them more palatable⁵.

Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS

Potential Use of Black Cardamom

Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia has reported black cardamom for its beneficial properties for several conditions. Susrata (an ancient Indian physician) stated that in India, black cardamom had been used in Ayurvedic preparations since the 6th century BC. The potential uses of black cardamom are as follows:

1. Potential Use of Black Cardamom for Microbial Infections

Black cardamom may potentially possess antimicrobial properties. In studies, extracts of black cardamom showed antimicrobial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus¹. The essential oil obtained from the seeds of black cardamom demonstrates antimicrobial activities. It may have inhibitory effects against various fungi that grow on hair and nails and some fungi that can cause superficial skin infections. Thus, black cardamom essential oil may benefit against hair and skin infections caused by these fungi¹. These studies are insufficient to state the exact potential of black cardamom for humans.

2. Potential Use of Black Cardamom for Teeth

Black cardamom may be effective against infections of the gums and teeth. In studies, the extract of black cardamom demonstrated activity against two bacteria, Streptococcus mutans and S. aureus, which cause dental caries. The decoction of the seeds also may be helpful as a gargle for dental care^1,2. This may indicate the benefits of black cardamom may be beneficial for dental health, but the studies are insufficient to establish the same benefits for humans.

3. Potential Use of Black Cardamom for the Digestive System

A broad range of pharmacological and physiological properties of black cardamom has been identified.  The essential oil in black cardamom shows stomachic properties that may help promote the appetite or assist digestion. Therefore, it can be used to manage vomiting, indigestion, abdominal pains, rectal diseases, and biliousness (excessive excretion of bile). Likewise, the essential oil of black cardamom may help with stomach ulcers¹.

Black cardamom, known for its distinctive flavour, also harbours medicinal properties that have been recognized for centuries. It contains essential oils that makeup around 1.95 to 3.32% of its composition. The essential oils in black cardamom may provide stimulating effects and aid in digestion⁵.

Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)

4. Potential Uses of Black Cardamom for the Heart and Liver

The seeds can activate antioxidant enzymes, thus causing antioxidant activity in the heart. It further may have beneficial effects on the muscular tissue of the heart against acute or severe stress-induced damage. Studies report that consuming black cardamom regularly may be helpful for ischemic heart disease². The seeds activate antioxidant enzymes, and therefore, it demonstrates antioxidant activity in the liver. A study on animal models shows that the extract of black cardamom seeds possesses liver protective activity². However, more research will be required to prove such claims. Moreover, any the heart-related condition is serious you should consult a qualified doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

5. Other Potential Uses of Black Cardamom

Along with the potential uses mentioned above, black cardamom shows several other possible benefits, such as:

•  Since ancient times, the extract has been used as an antidote for scorpion and snake venom. However, more research will be required to prove such claims.
• The extracts of black cardamom may have some anti-inflammatory activity.
• This spice may be beneficial in managing problems of the throat, congestion of the lungs, inflammation of eyelids, tuberculosis of the lungs, and digestive disorders.
• At higher dosage, the extract of seeds exhibited a tremendous pain relieving effect¹. Black cardamom may have an antioxidant effect as it consists of an element that decreases tissue damage caused by reactive oxygen. Thus, may help with chronic fatigue (extreme tiredness), degenerative cardiovascular diseases (relating to the heart and blood vessels) and brain related diseases associated with ageing². But the research seems insufficient and it is advisable to consult a doctor for any such conditions.

Though studies show the potential uses of star anise in various conditions, these are insufficient and there is a need for further studies to establish the true extent of benefits of star anise on human health.

Unlock the soothing power of large cardamom for throat troubles and lung congestion. This natural remedy, known for its medicinal properties, has been traditionally used to alleviate respiratory issues⁵.

Dr. Smita Barode, BAMS

How to Use Black Cardamom?

There are several uses of black cardamom. It is used in the following ways/forms:

• Seeds
• Powder
• Essential oil
• Extract
• Oleoresin (a natural or artificial mixture of essential oils of black cardamom and a resin)^1,2

You must consult a qualified doctor before taking any herbal supplements. Do not discontinue or replace an ongoing treatment of modern medicine with an ayurvedic/herbal preparation without consulting a qualified doctor.

Side Effects of Black Cardamom

There hasn’t been enough study to validate any specific side effects of black cardamom. However, if you observe discomfort or any other uncomfortable symptoms during its use, you must report it to your physician as they will be able to assess the situation and guide you regarding the further course of action. Even herbs and natural preparations can show specific side effects on individuals as everyone’s body reacts differently to certain compounds present in them. 

Also Read: Mandukaparni (Gotu Kola): Uses, Benefits, Side Effects, and more!

Precautions to Take with Black Cardamom

No scientific study validates or provides evidence on safety precautions to be adapted for the black cardamom extracts¹. Follow the guidance provided by your Ayurvedic doctor on the dosage of black cardamom. However, extra care needs to be taken by pregnant women, lactating mothers, older people and children.    

The dosage and method of use will be prescribed to you by your Ayurvedic doctor, depending on your health condition. You should consult your physician before consuming black cardamom for its health benefits.  

Also Read: Kantakari (Solanum xanthocarpum): Uses, Benefits, Side Effects, and more!

Interactions with Other Drugs

Warfarin is a popular antithrombotic agent (a drug to break up or dissolve blood clots) used to prevent heart ailments. Nevertheless, there is a high possibility of warfarin interacting with various other medications, including Ayurvedic and herbal treatments. A variety of case reports show the interaction of warfarin with herbal medications. It may lead to inadequate breaking of blood clots when herbs like black cardamom are consumed. This is a result of herb-drug interaction due to the interaction of black cardamom with warfarin⁴.

It is essential to consult an Ayurvedic physician before consuming herbs. Your doctor can appropriately modify the dosage and write a prescription per your condition, ongoing treatment and requirements.  

Also Read: Tejpatta: Benefits, Side Effects, Nutritional Value & More

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References

1. Gautam N, Bhattarai RR, Khanal BK, Oli P. Technology, chemistry and bioactive properties of large cardamom (Amomum subulatum Roxb.): An overview. International Journal of Applied Sciences and Biotechnology. 2016 Jun 27;4(2):139-49. Available from: https://www.nepjol.info/index.php/IJASBT/article/view/15104/12256
2. Bisht VK, Negi JS, Bh AK, Sundriyal RC. Amomum subulatum Roxb: Traditional, phytochemical and biological activities-An overview. African Journal of Agricultural Research. 2011 Oct 26;6(24):5386-90. Available from: https://academicjournals.org/journal/AJAR/article-full-text-pdf/B0592CD38048
3. Bhaswant M, Poudyal H, Mathai ML, Ward LC, Mouatt P, Brown L. Green and black cardamom in a diet-induced rat model of metabolic syndrome. Nutrients. 2015 Sep;7(9):7691-707. Available from: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/7/9/5360
4. Premchand RK, Samnani N. Case report on the interaction of warfarin with herbal medicine ”kadha”. IHJ Cardiovascular Case Reports (CVCR). 2021 May 1;5(2):116-8. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2468600X21000177
5. Bisht VK, Negi JS, Bhandari AK, Sundriyal RC. Amomum subulatum Roxb.: Traditional, biochemical and biological activities—an overview. African Journal of Agricultural Research. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/236327594_Amomum_subulatum_Roxb_Traditional_Biochemical_and_Biological_activities_-_An_overview

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