Grains of paradise consists of the dried mature seeds of Aframomum melegueta. A tufted leafy herbaceous perennial plant up to 2m high; leaves are distichously arranged. Although used mainly as a condiment, the seeds also have a stimulant action on the digestive system, strengthening and warming the stomach. They are used to alleviate indigestion, flatulence and bloating and help to relieve abdominal discomfort due to colic or griping. The seeds can help to reduce or prevent vomiting and to bring relief from nausea. They have also been used as an aphrodisiac. The seed is used to treat head colds, influenza, slight abdominal pains, constipation, menstrual pains and rheumatism. Combined with Zingiber officinale, they are used to treat colds and fever. Crushed in citron juice, they are employed for treating glandular problems. The pulverised seeds are used in an enema for treating constipation pains, and are mixed with mustard oil in an ointment for easing arthritis pains. The seeds are pulverised with the seeds of Piper nigrum and then mixed with coconut oil to make an ointment that is used to treat general swellings and pains. Studies on the sexual behaviour of male rats showed that A. melegueta and P. guineense increased sexual arousal (Kamtchouing et al., 2002).
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