Black cardamom

(Amomum Subulatum)

This herb is native to Madagascar, Somalia, Cameroon, Himalayas and Southern China. Many species of the herb are available which change with it origin and geographic conditions. The mentioned places are its main suppliers from where it is distributed to most parts of the world.

Due to its culinary value, the herb is also commonly used in spices in addition to its medicinal uses. Black cardamom relieves formation of gases in the stomach. It has a pleasant and soothing impact on the mucus membranes. It is widely used to treat abnormal increase in appetite. The plant can be used sometimes alone or mixed with other herbs to treat conditions like cystitis, nephritis and gonorrhea. This plant is essential part of some health issues like ulcers, inflammations.  Its tea, sweetened with honey or sugar is used to relieve depression. It also provides a good substitute to black tea.

Black cardamom is a mild aphrodisiac and is used to treat many male health issues. For this purpose, a half tea spoon of its ground seeds are added to a glass of warm milk taken once or twice daily. Or a simple cardamom tea would also suffice. It is a good antidote for bad breath. Few of its seeds (not pods) are chewed for few minutes to get rid of bad breath.

Prolonged usage of Black cardamom has been proved to improve vision. For this purpose separate the seeds from the pod and ground them well. Mix them with three parts of honey and take half tea spoon once or twice daily. This herb is widely used in Chinese medicine. For hiccups boil its ground powder in water and drink after straining. Sugar or honey can be added to taste.  

Ancient Egyptians has used Black cardamom since centuries as culinary and medicinal herb. They even used it to clean teeth. It is an essential part of preparations in Ayurvedic, Unani and Western herbal folklore.

It is available in several shapes but remember that in powdered form, like other herbs, it does not maintain its aromatic qualities for long time. Especially for cooking purpose, to get the best aroma, always try to grind fresh seeds.