Badi Elaichi
Badi Elaichi
Badi Elaichi, also known as Black Cardamom is a spice crop cultivated in the central Himalayan and north-eastern region of India. It is a well-known spice that has been used in many Ayurvedic preparations from ancient times due to its great medicinal value.
Badi Elaichi is helpful in managing diabetes as it lowers the blood glucose levels due to its antioxidant properties. The antioxidants present in it also helps in reducing the risk of heart diseases by lowering cholesterol levels. Consuming Badi Elaichi powder twice a day is good for patients with heart disease.
As per Ayurveda, Badi Elaichi is used to provide relief from cough due to its Ushna (hot) properties. It helps to remove excess mucus from the respiratory passages and provides relief. Consuming ashes of burnt Badi Elaichi leaves along with mustard oil reduces the symptoms of cough and cold.
Badi Elaichi essential oil also helps in managing inflammatory conditions such as swellings, tissue injuries or rheumatism due to its anti-inflammatory properties [10-12].
Badi Elaichi is helpful in managing diabetes as it lowers the blood glucose levels due to its antioxidant properties. The antioxidants present in it also helps in reducing the risk of heart diseases by lowering cholesterol levels. Consuming Badi Elaichi powder twice a day is good for patients with heart disease.
As per Ayurveda, Badi Elaichi is used to provide relief from cough due to its Ushna (hot) properties. It helps to remove excess mucus from the respiratory passages and provides relief. Consuming ashes of burnt Badi Elaichi leaves along with mustard oil reduces the symptoms of cough and cold.
Badi Elaichi essential oil also helps in managing inflammatory conditions such as swellings, tissue injuries or rheumatism due to its anti-inflammatory properties [10-12].
What are the synonyms of Badi Elaichi?
Amomum subulatum, Baara aliach, Bhadraila, Greater or Nepal cardamom, Elaicho, Mothi Elichi, Bari elachi Dodda Yalakki, Nepdi Elakki, Valiya Elam, Perelam, Mothi Elayachi, Bada aleicha, Aleicha, Budi Eleichi, Periya Elam, Beraelam, Kattu Elam, Pedda Elakulu, Badi Elaichi, Heel Kalan, Bhadra[14].
What is the source of Badi Elaichi?
Plant Based
Benefits of Badi Elaichi
1. Cough
Cough is quite a common ailment, which usually happens with the cold. It is commonly known as Kapha disorder in Ayurveda. Cough is generally caused by the accumulation of mucus in the respiratory tract. Badi Elaichi helps to reduce the symptoms of cough and cold due to its Kapha balancing and Ushna(hot) property. It helps to melt the accumulated mucus and releases it from the lungs, thus providing relief.
Tips for using Badi Elaichi in cough
a. Consume ashes of burnt leaves of Badi Elaichi with mustard oil to reduce the symptoms of cough and cold[11].
2. Loss of Appetite
Badi Elaichi helps to improve appetite when it is added to a daily diet. In Ayurveda, loss of appetite is due to Agnimandya (weak digestion). It is caused by an aggravation of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas leading to incomplete digestion of food. This causes insufficient secretion of gastric juice in the stomach which results in loss of appetite. Badi Elaichi stimulates digestion and improves appetite. This is due to its Deepan (appetizer) property.
Tips for using Badi Elaichi
a. Take 1-1.5gm (or as directed by the physician) of Badi Elaichi powder.
b. Mix it with honey or water.
c. Have it once or twice a day after taking light food to get rid of the symptoms of poor digestion.
3. Asthma
Badi Elaichi helps to control the symptoms of asthma and gives relief in case of breathlessness. According to Ayurveda, the main doshas involved in Asthma are Vata and Kapha. The vitiated ‘Vata’ combines with deranged ‘Kapha dosha’ in the lungs obstructing the respiratory passages and results in difficulty in breathing. This condition is known as Swas Roga (asthma). Badi Elaichi is very useful in Asthma because it balances Vata- Kapha doshas. It also helps to melt and expel out excessive sputum from the lungs due to its Ushna (hot) nature.
Cough is quite a common ailment, which usually happens with the cold. It is commonly known as Kapha disorder in Ayurveda. Cough is generally caused by the accumulation of mucus in the respiratory tract. Badi Elaichi helps to reduce the symptoms of cough and cold due to its Kapha balancing and Ushna(hot) property. It helps to melt the accumulated mucus and releases it from the lungs, thus providing relief.
Tips for using Badi Elaichi in cough
a. Consume ashes of burnt leaves of Badi Elaichi with mustard oil to reduce the symptoms of cough and cold[11].
2. Loss of Appetite
Badi Elaichi helps to improve appetite when it is added to a daily diet. In Ayurveda, loss of appetite is due to Agnimandya (weak digestion). It is caused by an aggravation of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas leading to incomplete digestion of food. This causes insufficient secretion of gastric juice in the stomach which results in loss of appetite. Badi Elaichi stimulates digestion and improves appetite. This is due to its Deepan (appetizer) property.
Tips for using Badi Elaichi
a. Take 1-1.5gm (or as directed by the physician) of Badi Elaichi powder.
b. Mix it with honey or water.
c. Have it once or twice a day after taking light food to get rid of the symptoms of poor digestion.
3. Asthma
Badi Elaichi helps to control the symptoms of asthma and gives relief in case of breathlessness. According to Ayurveda, the main doshas involved in Asthma are Vata and Kapha. The vitiated ‘Vata’ combines with deranged ‘Kapha dosha’ in the lungs obstructing the respiratory passages and results in difficulty in breathing. This condition is known as Swas Roga (asthma). Badi Elaichi is very useful in Asthma because it balances Vata- Kapha doshas. It also helps to melt and expel out excessive sputum from the lungs due to its Ushna (hot) nature.
Precautions when using Badi Elaichi
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
Enough scientific evidence is not available about the use of Badi Elaichi during breastfeeding. So, it is advisable to consult a physician before using Badi Elaichi during breastfeeding.
Pregnancy
Modern Science View
Enough scientific evidence is not available about the use of Badi Elaichi during pregnancy. So, it is advisable to consult a physician before using Badi Elaichi during pregnancy.
How to use Badi Elaichi
1. Badi Elaichi Powder (Fruit)
a. Take 1-1.5gm (or as directed by the physician) of Badi Elaichi powder.
b. Mix it with honey or water.
c. Have it once or twice a day after taking light food to get rid of the symptoms of poor digestion.
2. For use in your daily dish
a. Crush few Pods of Badi Elaichi and put them into your dish during cooking to enhance and intensify the taste of other ingredients.
b. It has a nice flavor and aroma that stimulates the taste buds when used in your daily food like dal and rice.
3. As a mouth freshener
a. Take a few ground pieces of Badi Elaichi and chew them after taking your daily meals to get rid of the bad breath.
a. Take 1-1.5gm (or as directed by the physician) of Badi Elaichi powder.
b. Mix it with honey or water.
c. Have it once or twice a day after taking light food to get rid of the symptoms of poor digestion.
2. For use in your daily dish
a. Crush few Pods of Badi Elaichi and put them into your dish during cooking to enhance and intensify the taste of other ingredients.
b. It has a nice flavor and aroma that stimulates the taste buds when used in your daily food like dal and rice.
3. As a mouth freshener
a. Take a few ground pieces of Badi Elaichi and chew them after taking your daily meals to get rid of the bad breath.
FAQs about Badi Elaichi how to take
Benefits of Badi Elaichi
Joint Pain
Badi Elaichi or its oil helps to reduce bone and joint pain when applied to the affected area. According to Ayurveda, the bones and joints are considered a site of Vata in the body. Pain in the joints is mainly due to Vata imbalance. Applying Badi Elaichi essential oil helps to reduce joint pain due to its Vata balancing property.
Tips for using Badi Elaichi Essential oil
a. Take a few drops (or as per your requirement) of Badi Elaichi Essential oil.
b. Mix with Olive oil or mustard oil.
c. Massage the affected area with this mixture before sleeping at night to get relief from muscular and joint pain.
Badi Elaichi or its oil helps to reduce bone and joint pain when applied to the affected area. According to Ayurveda, the bones and joints are considered a site of Vata in the body. Pain in the joints is mainly due to Vata imbalance. Applying Badi Elaichi essential oil helps to reduce joint pain due to its Vata balancing property.
Tips for using Badi Elaichi Essential oil
a. Take a few drops (or as per your requirement) of Badi Elaichi Essential oil.
b. Mix with Olive oil or mustard oil.
c. Massage the affected area with this mixture before sleeping at night to get relief from muscular and joint pain.
Precautions when using Badi Elaichi
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
Enough scientific evidence is not available about the use of Badi Elaichi during breastfeeding. So, it is advisable to consult a physician before using Badi Elaichi during breastfeeding.
Pregnancy
Modern Science View
Enough scientific evidence is not available about the use of Badi Elaichi during pregnancy. So, it is advisable to consult a physician before using Badi Elaichi during pregnancy.
How to use Badi Elaichi
1. Use as a massage oil
a. Take a few drops (or as per your requirement) of Badi Elaichi Essential oil.
b. Mix with Olive oil or mustard oil.
c. Massage the affected area with this mixture before sleeping at night to get relief from muscular and joint pain.
a. Take a few drops (or as per your requirement) of Badi Elaichi Essential oil.
b. Mix with Olive oil or mustard oil.
c. Massage the affected area with this mixture before sleeping at night to get relief from muscular and joint pain.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Badi Elaichi pods are dried over an open fire that gives it a strong, smoky aroma. The taste and flavor of Badi Elaichi mostly comes from the tiny seeds inside the pod.
Modern Science View
No, Black Elaichi cannot be used in place of Green Elaichi as they differ entirely in taste. Green Elaichi has a sweet taste whereas Black Elaichi has an intense pungent taste.
Modern Science View
Badi Elaichi is mostly used in savory dishes. It is added as an ingredient to garam masala which is commonly used in the preparation of Indian dishes.
Modern Science View
Badi Elaichi should be stored in an air-tight container in a cool and dry place to retain the aroma. Badi Elaichi can be preserved for over a year in dry conditions.
Modern Science View
You can either remove the pods of Cardamom after cooking or eat it along with the dish. If you wish to use the whole pod then lightly crush the whole pod and add it to the mixture being made.
Ayurvedic View
According to Ayurveda, black Cardamom has Ushan (hot) property. It is a warm spice that helps to improve digestion and also gives relief to congestion.
Modern Science View
Black Cardamom is a nutritional spice used in many households. It shows antioxidant and antibacterial properties which aid overall health. It is rich in copper, iron and fundamental nutrients like riboflavin, nutrient C, and niacin. Along with these, it also contains manganese and zinc, both important for human health.
Modern Science View
You can either remove the pods of Cardamom after cooking or eat it along with the dish. If you wish to use the whole pod then lightly crush the whole pod and add it to the mixture being made.
Modern Science View
Yes, Badi Elaichi might reduce the risk of heart diseases. It contains antioxidants that lower the total cholesterol as well as bad cholesterol (LDL) levels and increases good cholesterol (HDL) levels. These antioxidants also prevent heart cells against damage caused by free radicals[1][7].
Modern Science View
Yes, Badi Elaichi might be helpful in diabetes due to its anti-diabetic property. The antioxidants (phenolic compounds) present in Badi Elaichi reduces oxidative stress, prevent damage to pancreatic cells and reduces insulin resistance. This helps in managing blood glucose levels. It also inhibits starch breakdown which also controls blood sugar levels[2][3].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Badi Elaichi is good for diabetes. It helps to maintain a normal blood sugar level. Ayurveda believes that Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) is the prime cause of high sugar levels in the blood. Using Badi Elaichi in your diet reduces Ama due to its Ushna (hot) nature. Thus Badi Elaichi helps to manage diabetes.
Modern Science View
Yes, Badi Elaichi might be good for the liver due to its hepatoprotective property. It possesses antioxidants that protect the liver cells against damage caused by free radicals and prevent further damage[4].
Modern Science View
Yes, Badi Elaichi might be good for kidneys as it decreases the creatinine and urea levels in the blood. It also contains antioxidants that prevent cell damage by reducing oxidative stress and shows nephroprotective properties[5].
Modern Science View
Yes, Badi Elaichi might help in gastric ulcer as it has gastroprotective properties. It contains certain constituents (phenolic compounds) that decreases the gastric damage by increasing the mucous secretion on gastric mucosal cells[6].
Modern Science View
Yes, Badi Elaichi might improve digestion as it improves the function of the stomach and aids in digestion due to its stomachic (agents that promote appetite and improve digestion) properties. It also prevents gas formation due to its carminative properties[11].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Badi Elaichi helps to improve digestion when added to the daily diet by improving the digestive fire. It helps in easy and quick digestion of food due to its Deepan (appetizer) property.
Modern Science View
Yes, Badi Elaichi might help in improving memory and learning in women during or after menopause as it increases the levels of estrogen hormone. This hormone is crucial for maintaining normal brain functions and preventing brain disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease in women[13].
Modern Science View
Badi Elaichi has many medicinal benefits. It imparts warmth to the body and has a strong aroma which helps in activating our taste and sensory elements, thus aiding digestion. It also helps in treating cold, cough, and certain respiratory problems[15].
Ayurvedic View
Badi Eaichi is used to make our food full of flavor and health. As per Ayurveda, Badi Elaichi helps to improve digestion fire and reduce the symptoms of indigestion. You can add it to your soups and teas.
Ayurvedic View
Black Cardamom is a useful aromatic spice which improves male sexual wellness. Its Vrishya (aphrodisiac) action helps to improve male sexual ability by increasing the overall energy level of the body.
Ayurvedic View
Black Cardamom powder can be taken in the following ways:
Take 1-2 Pinch of Black cardamom powder put in your soup or tea or even in cooked food to make it tastier and healthier.
You can also take Black cardamom powder with honey to get quick relief from cough and cold.
Take 1-2 Pinch of Black cardamom powder put in your soup or tea or even in cooked food to make it tastier and healthier.
You can also take Black cardamom powder with honey to get quick relief from cough and cold.
Modern Science View
Enough evidence is not available to suggest risks or any known adverse side effects associated with the use of Cardamom in cooking. It is considered to be safe for most people when consumed in recommended amounts.
Ayurvedic View
Yes, you can eat raw black Cardamom seeds, but in moderate or recommended amounts. However, it is suggested to use black Cardamom pods or seeds after frying them in little cooking oil. This will help to enhance the flavor of your savory dish along with health benefits.
Modern Science View
Metabolic syndrome is basically a cluster of ailments that affect health. These may include increased blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels. According to a study, it was found that black Cardamom is more effective in reversing the signs of metabolic syndrome than green Cardamom[14].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, black Cardamom can be used in Metabolic syndrome. According to Ayurveda black Cardamom has the Ushna (hot) property which helps to improve digestive fire and reduce the symptoms of metabolic syndrome.
Modern Science View
Yes, Badi Elaichi might be helpful in managing wrinkles. It protects the skin from damage caused by free radicals due to the presence of certain constituents (protocatechualdehyde and protocatechuic acid) that have antioxidant properties and prevents aging. A certain study states that an “Anti-Wrinkle cream” containing Badi Elaichi might be effective in managing facial skin wrinkles[9].
Modern Science View
Yes, the topical application of Badi Elaichi essential oil might be beneficial for managing inflammatory conditions. It reduces the inflammation and irritation due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Badi Elaichi essential oil might be used in inflammatory conditions related to tissue injury or to alleviate symptoms of rheumatism[10].
Modern Science View
Yes, Badi Elaichi might be used in oral infections as its fruit extract possesses antimicrobial properties. It inhibits the activity of pathogens responsible for oral infections and dental cavities[8].
Modern Science View
Black cardamom helps to flush out toxins from the body that could otherwise harm your skin. Chewing some black cardamom can help detoxify your body, thus providing you with clearer skin[15].
References
- Verma S, Rajeevan V, Bordia A, et.al.Greater cardamom (amomum subulatum roxb) a cardio-Adaptogen against physical stress.Journal of herbal medicine and toxicology.2010;4(2).55-58.
- Vavaiya RB, Patel A, Manek RA.Anti-Diabetic Activity of Amomum Subulatum Roxb. Fruit Constituents.IJPI.2012;2(5):50-63.
- Hussain SA, Hameed A, Fu J, et.al.Comparative in vitro analysis of anti-diabetic activity of IndoPak black cardamom (Amomum subulatum Roxb.) and Chinese black cardamom (Amomum tsao-ko Crevost et Lemaire).Prog Nutr.2018(3):403-414.
- Parmar MY, Shah PA, Thakkar VT, et.al.Hepatoprotective Activity of Amomum Subulatum (Roxb.) Seeds against Paracetamol Induced Liver Damage in Rats.Adv Bioeng Biomed Sci Res.2019:2(2):1-6
- Puttanna GS, Nayak S, Ravi M, et.al.Nephroprotective acitvity of Amomum subulatum seeds against cypermethrin induced nephrotoxicity in rats. J Phytopharmaco.2016;5(4):145-149.
- Jafri MA, Farah, Javed K, et.al.Evaluation of the gastric antiulcerogenic effect of large cardamom (fruits of Amomum subulatum Roxb).J Ethnopharmacol.2001;75(2-3):89-94.
- Bairwa GL, Jasuja ND, Joshi SC.Lipid-lowering and antioxidant effects of Amomum subulatum seeds (Family Zingiberaceae) in cholesterol fed rabbits.Arch Phytopathology Plant Protect.2011;44(14):1425-1431.
- Aneja KR, Joshi R.Antimicrobial Activity of Amomum subulatum and Elettaria cardamomum Against Dental Caries Causing Microorganisms.Ethnobot Leaflets.2009;13:840-49.
- Ravichandran G, Bharadwaj VS, Kolhapure SA.Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of "Anti-Wrinkle cream" in the treatment of facial skin wrinkles: A prospective, open, phase III clinical trial.The Antiseptic.2005;102(2):65-70.
- Agnihotri, Supriya et.al.Chemical composition, antimicrobial and topical anti-inflammatory activity of essential oil of Amomum subulatum fruits.Acta Pol Pharm.2012;69(6):1177-1181.
- Bisht V, Negi JS, Bhandari AK, et.al. Amomum subulatum Roxb: Traditional, Biochemical and Biological activities - An overview.Afr J Agric Res.2011;6(24):5386-5390.
- Verma S, Jain V, Singh D.Effect of Greater cardamom (Amomum subulatum Roxb.) on blood lipids, fibrinolysis and total antioxidant status in patients with ischemic heart disease.Asian Pac J Trop Med.2012;2.739-743.
- Kumar A, Goyal R, Kumar S, et.al. strogenic and Anti-Alzheimer’s studies of Zingiber officinalis as well as Amomum subulatum Roxb.: the success story of dry techniques.Med Chem Res.2014;24(3),1089–1097.
- The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia Of India. Part 1 Volume 1.
- Bhaswant M, Poudyal H, Mathai ML, et al. Green and Black Cardamom in a Diet-Induced Rat Model of Metabolic Syndrome. Nutrients. 2015 Sep; 7(9): 7691–7707.
- Rani B, Saraswat R, Prasad M, et al. Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum): A Spice of Prominent Healthcare. J. Biol. Chem. Research. Volume 35 (1) 2018 Pages No. 194-199.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.