Exploring the Marvels of Brihat Ela: Unveiling the Wonders of Amomum subulatum

Basonym of Drug

The world of herbal healing unfolds its secrets to those who seek, and within its pages, we discover the enchanting medicinal plant known as Brihat Ela. Scientifically classified as Amomum subulatum, this botanical gem carries a legacy of wellness and vitality.

Main Sanskrit Synonyms

In the verses of ancient Ayurvedic texts, Brihat Ela shines with a constellation of Sanskrit synonyms, each portraying a facet of its healing essence. Among the primary Sanskrit synonyms for Brihat Ela are:

1. Brihat Ela/Maha Ela/Sthula Ela: It signifies the notable size of the capsules and seeds compared to other varieties of Ela.

2. Golomi Ela: “Golomi” refers to “round” or “circular,” indicating the shape of the capsules. This synonym highlights the rounded appearance of the capsules of Brihat Ela.

3. Triputa: The pod has 3 edges.
4. Divyagandha: Seeds have a pleasant smell. 

Regional Name (Vernacular names)

Brihat Ela’s significance transcends borders, acquiring diverse regional identities that resonate with its essence. Across cultures and geographical boundaries, Brihat Ela answers to an array of vernacular names, reflecting its widespread recognition and utilization:

• Hindi: Badi Elaichi
• Bengali: Boro Elaichi
• Marathi: Velchi
• Tamil: Periya Yelakkai
• Telugu: Pedda Elakulu
• Kannada: Dodda Elakki
• Gujarati: Moti Elaichi
• Malayalam: Periya Elam
• Urdu: Badi Elaichi

Scientific Classification of Dravya 

 Brihat Ela’s classification is unveiled:

• Kingdom: Plantae 
• Sub-Kingdom: Phanerogamia 
• Division (Phylum): Angiosperms 
• Class: Monocotyledons 
• Order: Scitamineae 
• Family: Zingiberaceae 
• Genus: Amomum 
• Species: Subulatum 

Classical Categorization of Dravya

Bhavprakash Nighantu: Karpooradi Varga

Raja Nighantu: Pippalyadi Varga

External Morphology

Brihat Ela, a botanical marvel, graces the earth with its presence as a perennial treasure. Its lance-shaped leaves and elegant inflorescences whisper tales of nature’s touch. Yet, Brihat Ela’s true charm is unveiled in its majestic, elongated capsules, enfolding the precious seeds that carry its therapeutic essence.

Useful Parts

The seeds of Brihat Ela, nestled within its capsules, are its prized possession. These seeds hold the key to Brihat Ela’s transformative power, embodying its essence for an array of therapeutic applications.

Important Phytoconstituents

Brihat Ela’s enchanting aroma and profound healing potential arise from its complex symphony of phytoconstituents. Among the key players in this botanical orchestra are:

1. Essential Oils: Brihat Ela boasts essential oils laden with compounds like terpinyl acetate, cineole, and limonene, contributing to its distinct aroma and flavor.

2. Terpenes: The symphony continues with a composition of terpenes that contribute to Brihat Ela’s aromatic allure.

3. Alkaloids: These compounds add their unique note to Brihat Ela’s healing melody, enhancing its therapeutic spectrum.

4. Flavonoids: Brihat Ela resonates with the hues of flavonoids, offering antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential.

5. Phenolic Compounds: Phenolic compounds within Brihat Ela’s repertoire contribute to its wellness-promoting effects.

6. Minerals: Calcium, potassium, and magnesium harmonize within Brihat Ela, enriching its therapeutic ensemble.

Rasa Panchaka:

Rasa : Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter)

Guna: Laghu(Light) , Ruksha (Dry)

Veerya: Ushna (Hot potency)

Vipaka: Katu (Pungent)

Prabhava: Ela’s special influence lies in its ability to soothe and balance the digestive system, making it stand out among other spices.

Action on Dosha, Dhatu, and Mala:

Dosha: Ela plays a harmonizing role, particularly in balancing “Vata” and “Kapha” doshas due to its warming and drying properties.

Dhatu: Ela’s effects extend to multiple dhatus (tissues), particularly benefiting “Rasa” dhatu (plasma), “Rakta” dhatu (blood), and “Agni” (digestive fire).

Mala: Ela supports the proper elimination of “Mala” or waste products, promoting healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.

Prayogarha Vyadhi (Therapeutic Indications):

1. Indigestion (Ajeerna): Brihat Ela’s carminative and digestive properties help alleviate indigestion, bloating, and discomfort by stimulating digestive enzymes and promoting efficient digestion.

2. Abdominal Discomfort: It is useful in relieving various forms of abdominal discomfort such as colic, spasms, and cramps, providing relief and easing tension in the abdominal region.

3. Flatulence (Adhmana): Brihat Ela’s digestive and carminative effects aid in reducing gas and bloating, easing the discomfort associated with excessive flatulence.

4. Nausea and Vomiting (Chardi and Chhardi): The aromatic nature of Brihat Ela can help calm an upset stomach, alleviate nausea, and reduce the urge to vomit.

5. Anorexia (Aruchi): It can stimulate appetite and improve the desire to eat, making it beneficial for individuals experiencing loss of appetite.

6. Respiratory Issues (Shwasa and Kasa): Brihat Ela’s warming properties can help alleviate congestion, promote expectoration, and provide relief from respiratory conditions like cough and cold.

7. Toothache (Danta Shoola): Its analgesic properties make Brihat Ela effective in reducing toothache and oral discomfort, providing temporary relief.

8. Oral Infections (Mukha Roga): Brihat Ela’s antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties can assist in managing oral infections, mouth ulcers, and sore throats.

9. Bad Breath (Halitosis): Chewing on Brihat Ela seeds can help freshen the breath and combat bad odor, making it a natural remedy for halitosis.

10. Digestive Weakness (Agneya Manda): Brihat Ela’s ability to stimulate digestion can be beneficial for individuals with weak digestive fire (Agni), helping improve overall digestion and nutrient absorption.

11. Mental Fatigue (Mano Daurbalya): Its invigorating aroma and stimulating properties may help reduce mental fatigue and provide a mild energy boost.

12. Cough (Kasa) and Cold (Pratishyaya): Brihat Ela’s warming nature can help relieve congestion, ease breathing, and alleviate symptoms of cough and cold.

13. Stomachache (Udarshoola): Its carminative and antispasmodic properties may provide relief from mild stomachaches and cramps.

14. Respiratory Congestion (Shwasa): Brihat Ela’s aromatic and warming qualities can help open up the airways and ease respiratory congestion.

15. Loss of Taste (Aruchi): It may help improve the sense of taste in individuals experiencing a reduced ability to taste food.

Amayikaprayoga and Matra (Therapeutic Administration and Dose):

Amayikaprayoga (Immediate Use): In situations requiring immediate relief, Brihat Ela can be employed by:

• Chewing a small quantity of the seeds to alleviate nausea and freshen the breath.

Matra (Therapeutic Dosage and Administration):

• Powder: The standard dosage of Brihat Ela powder is generally around 1 to 3 grams per day, taken with honey or warm water.
• Decoction: Preparing a decoction by boiling the seeds and consuming around 30-60 ml, once or twice a day, aids in digestion and respiratory issues.
• Infusion: Infusing the crushed seeds in hot water and consuming 1-2 cups daily offers digestive and respiratory benefits.

Vishishta Yoga (Names of Important Formulations):

Brihat Ela finds its place in various Ayurvedic formulations, contributing to their therapeutic potential:

1. Kalmeghasava: It has anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-pyretic properties.

2. Kalyanak Ghritam: It is useful medicine for mental and psychological ailments and infertility.
3. Sarivadyasava: It is a natural blood purifier.
4. Eladi Tailam: It is useful in skin diseases.