Black cardamom

Botanical

What is it

Black cardamom (Amomum subulatum, sometimes also Lanxangia tsaoko) is a large dried spice pod with a distinctive smoky flavor (often dried over open fires). It is widely used in South Asian and Chinese cuisine and in traditional medicine for digestive and respiratory complaints.

Evidence for 2 uses

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Digestive (carminative) effects

Limited Evidence

Traditional carminative spice; some support from related cardamom research.

Respiratory symptoms (traditional)

Mixed Evidence

Traditional use for cough and respiratory complaints. Limited modern evidence.

How it works

Black cardamom contains volatile oils (1,8-cineole, alpha-terpineol, terpinyl acetate), polyphenols, and tannins. Traditional uses include carminative (relieving gas), expectorant, and mild antispasmodic effects. Some preliminary animal studies suggest anti-ulcer, hypoglycemic, and hepatoprotective activities. Human clinical evidence is limited.

Dosage

Used as a culinary spice. Traditional medicinal preparations use 1 to 3 grams of crushed pods or seeds per day.

When and how to take it

Used in cooking. No specific timing for medicinal use.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Whole black cardamom pods

Dried, smoky pods used in cooking.

Used as spice.

Safety

Generally well tolerated as a food spice. Allergic reactions are possible.

Who should be cautious

Use cautiously in pregnancy at medicinal doses (food use is fine). People with gallbladder disease should consult a clinician about high spice intake.

Interactions

No significant drug interactions documented. Theoretical mild antiplatelet effect at high doses.

Food sources

Black cardamom (spice)

Amount
1 g
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Is black cardamom the same as green cardamom?⌄

No. They are different species (Amomum subulatum vs. Elettaria cardamomum). Flavors and uses are distinct.

Does it have health benefits?⌄

Modest traditional and animal data suggest digestive and respiratory benefits. Clinical evidence in humans is limited.

References

Black cardamom on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Black cardamom on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Black cardamom (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.