Reviewed by medical experts • For informational purposes only

Elaichi scientifically known as Elettaria cardamomum is referred to as Sukshmaila in Ayurveda. It acts as a cooling aromatic herb with Sweet and Pungent tastes and Light quality. Unlike the larger variety Sthulaila which is hot Sukshmaila possesses a Cold potency making it effective for burning sensations and thirst. It is highly valued as a cardiac tonic known as Hridya and a diuretic known as Mutrala. Clinically it is indicated for respiratory conditions like cough and asthma digestive disorders including vomiting and anorexia and painful urination. It also cleanses the mouth and head. Commonly found in formulations like Eladi Churna the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India recommends a dosage of 250 to 500 milligrams of the seed powder.
Elaichi, known scientifically as Elettaria cardamomum, is often referred to as the "Queen of Spices." In Ayurveda, it is known as Sūkṣmailā or Truṭi. It is a highly valued herb used not only as a flavoring agent but also for its ability to treat respiratory conditions, digestive disorders, and urinary issues. It is considered a Hridya (heart tonic) and a breath freshener.
The plant is a stout, large perennial herb growing naturally in moist forests (Western Ghats). The medicinal part consists of the dried seeds found within the greenish to pale-buff capsules. In Ayurveda, it is highly regarded for its aromatic, cooling, and appetizing properties. It acts as a tonic for the heart and is frequently used to check vomiting and relieve thirst.
According to the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (for Sūkṣmailā / Small Cardamom):
Elaichi is indicated in Ayurveda for the following conditions:
The recommended dosage according to the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India is:
Small Cardamom (Sūkṣmailā) is generally considered safe when consumed in culinary amounts and prescribed therapeutic doses. It is a key ingredient in many safe and common formulations like Sitopaladi Churna (used for cough) and Eladi Gutika.
** **Q. Can it be taken daily?
Yes, it is commonly used as a spice in tea and food. In small quantities, it aids digestion and freshens breath.
Q. When should it be taken?
It is often taken after meals as a mouth freshener and digestive aid. For respiratory issues, it is often taken with honey.
Q. Can it be taken with milk/water?
Yes. Formulations like Eladya Modaka are recommended to be taken with milk (Payasa). It can also be boiled in water or tea.
Written By
Sathyaprek
BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Varun Gupta
MD Pharmacology, MBBS
Last updated on
27 Sep 2022 • 06:23 PM (IST)
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Reviewed by medical experts • For informational purposes only

Elaichi scientifically known as Elettaria cardamomum is referred to as Sukshmaila in Ayurveda. It acts as a cooling aromatic herb with Sweet and Pungent tastes and Light quality. Unlike the larger variety Sthulaila which is hot Sukshmaila possesses a Cold potency making it effective for burning sensations and thirst. It is highly valued as a cardiac tonic known as Hridya and a diuretic known as Mutrala. Clinically it is indicated for respiratory conditions like cough and asthma digestive disorders including vomiting and anorexia and painful urination. It also cleanses the mouth and head. Commonly found in formulations like Eladi Churna the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India recommends a dosage of 250 to 500 milligrams of the seed powder.
Elaichi, known scientifically as Elettaria cardamomum, is often referred to as the "Queen of Spices." In Ayurveda, it is known as Sūkṣmailā or Truṭi. It is a highly valued herb used not only as a flavoring agent but also for its ability to treat respiratory conditions, digestive disorders, and urinary issues. It is considered a Hridya (heart tonic) and a breath freshener.
The plant is a stout, large perennial herb growing naturally in moist forests (Western Ghats). The medicinal part consists of the dried seeds found within the greenish to pale-buff capsules. In Ayurveda, it is highly regarded for its aromatic, cooling, and appetizing properties. It acts as a tonic for the heart and is frequently used to check vomiting and relieve thirst.
According to the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (for Sūkṣmailā / Small Cardamom):
Elaichi is indicated in Ayurveda for the following conditions:
The recommended dosage according to the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India is:
Small Cardamom (Sūkṣmailā) is generally considered safe when consumed in culinary amounts and prescribed therapeutic doses. It is a key ingredient in many safe and common formulations like Sitopaladi Churna (used for cough) and Eladi Gutika.
** **Q. Can it be taken daily?
Yes, it is commonly used as a spice in tea and food. In small quantities, it aids digestion and freshens breath.
Q. When should it be taken?
It is often taken after meals as a mouth freshener and digestive aid. For respiratory issues, it is often taken with honey.
Q. Can it be taken with milk/water?
Yes. Formulations like Eladya Modaka are recommended to be taken with milk (Payasa). It can also be boiled in water or tea.
Written By
Sathyaprek
BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Varun Gupta
MD Pharmacology, MBBS
Last updated on
27 Sep 2022 • 06:23 PM (IST)
Read Our Editorial Policy
Want to know more?
Have issue with the content?
Report Problem