Ayurvedic Properties
- Taste (Rasa)
- Pungent (Katu)
- Quality (Guna)
- Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
- Potency (Virya)
- Cold (Sheeta)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka)
- Sweet (Madhura)
- Key Constituents
- Volatile oil (2-4%), Cineol, Terpineol, Terpinene, Terpinyl acetate
- Also Known As
- English: Greater Cardamom, Nepal Cardamom, Amomum
Sanskrit: स्थूलैला, बृहदेला, प्रथ्वीका
Hindi: बड़ी इलायची, काली इलायची
What is Greater Cardamom (Sthula Ela / बड़ी इलायची)?
Sthula Ela (Greater Cardamom) is the dried capsular fruit of Amomum subulatum, primarily cultivated in Nepal and sub-Himalayan regions. The fruits are larger than lesser cardamom and have a smoky flavor. They are used as a spice and medicine, particularly for oral hygiene, respiratory complaints, and urinary disorders. The drug is cooling in potency despite being pungent.
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 2
Therapeutic Actions (Karma)
- Mukhashodhaka (oral cleanser)
- Shwasahara (relieves dyspnea)
- Kasaghna (antitussive)
- Hridya (cardiotonic)
- Mutrakrichrahara (relieves dysuria)
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 2
How to Use Greater Cardamom by Condition
Explore how Greater Cardamom is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.