Common Name: |
Guinea Grains |
Other Names: |
Grains of Paradise, Melegueta Pepper |
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
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