Greater Cardamom

(Greater Cardamom)
Sanskrit: स्थूलैला • Botanical: Amomum subulatum Roxb.

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.

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

Greater Cardamom by Condition

Explore how Greater Cardamom is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.

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Greater Cardamom for Male Sexual Health

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.