Cardamom

Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum), perennial plant the seed of which is used as a spice and for medicinal purposes. The simple erect stem of the plant grows to a height of 6–10 ft (1.8–3 m) from a thumbthick, creeping rootstock. The leaves are lanceolate (spear-shaped) and dark green. The small, yellowish flowers grow in loose groups on prostrate flower stems. The fruit is a 3-celled capsule holding up to 18 seeds. These are useful in controlling flatulence, but they are usually used to increase the efficacy of other remedies.