Grains of Paradise

Fifty species of rhizomatous perennial make up this genus, which occurs in tropical Africa. Several species are used as spices, including A. angustifolium (Madagascar cardamom), which has pleasant tasting pulp and aromatic seeds, and A. korarima (Ethiopian cardamom, kewrerima), and important ingredient of Ethiopian spice mixtures for both sweet and savor dishes. Most important is A. melegueta, which was traded by the Portuguese as early as the 13th century. Melegueta pepper is the only major spice that is native to Africa. Known in ancient Rome, it was used during medieval times, with ginger and cinnamon, to flavor hippocras (a spiced wine) and as a pepper substitute - a use that was banned in Britain by George III (1760-1820) as being injurious to health.

Rhizomatous perennial with reed-like stems, and alternate, narrow, elliptic leaves. Solitary, mauve, trumpet-shaped flower, up to 13cm (5in) long and 4-9cm (1½-3½in) across, are borne on short stems, followed by pear-shaped, red fruits, 6-10cm (2½-4in) long, containing 60-100 aromatic brown seeds in white pulp.

Common Name:	Grains of Paradise
Other Names:	Melegueta pepper, Guinea grains
Botanical Name:	Afromomum melegueta
Genus:	Afromomum
Family:	Zingiberaceae
Native Location:	W Africa
Cultivation:	Well-drained, moist soil in high humidity and shade.
Propagation:	By division of rhizomes as new growth begins.
Harvest:	Fruits are collected as they ripen and seeds separated from pulp and dried. Rhizomes are lifted throughout the year.
Height:	90cm-1.2m (3-4ft)
Width:	Indefinite
Hardiness:	Min 15-18°C (59-64°F)
Parts Used:	Rhizomes, seeds
Properties:	A pungent stimulant that benefits the digestion and relieves spasms.
Medicinal Uses:	Internally, in W Africa, for a range of conditions, including excessive lactation, painful menstruation, post-partum hemorrhage, infertility (root decoction), and aphrodisiac (seeds); in Nigeria, combined with Rauvolfia serpentina (see serpentwood) for mental disorders, with Momordica charantia (see balsam pear) for cholera (seeds).
Culinary Uses:	Seeds are used as a condiment and flavoring for mead dishes and bread. Also an ingredient of the N African spice mixture, ras-el-hanout.
Economic Uses:	Seed extracts flavor soft drinks, liqueurs, cordials, ice creams, and candy.
Bibliography:	Encylopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright ©: 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited pg 105