"Serving Premium Quality Ingredients Since 1986"

Cardamom

Cardamom

At Sterling Exports Inc., we proudly export premium quality Cardamom (Whole & Grounded), popularly known as the “Queen of Spices” because of its intense aroma and unique flavor. With over 40 years of experience in sourcing and trading spices, we ensure that our cardamom is carefully selected from the finest plantations, hygienically processed, and packed to international quality standards.

Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum Maton) is a perennial, herbaceous, rhizomatous plant, cultivated in select regions of South India. Based on the nature of panicles, three main varieties are recognized:

  • Malabar – with prostrate panicles and globose fruits.
  • Mysore – with erect panicles and robust plants producing ovoid capsules.
  • Vazhukka – a hybrid variety with mixed traits of both Malabar and Mysore.

We at Sterling Exports specialize in supplying both whole cardamom and grounded (powder) form, tailored to meet client requirements across retail, wholesale, and industrial applications.

General Product Details

Product Name
Cardamom (Whole & Grounded)
Botanical Name
Elettaria cardamomum Maton
Family Name
Zingiberaceae
Commercial Part
Capsule (fruit of the plant)
Varieties Available
Malabar, Mysore, Vazhukka
Appearance
Small spindle-shaped green capsules containing aromatic seeds
Flavor & Aroma
Warm, sweet, spicy, intensely aromatic
Primary Uses
Culinary spice, flavoring in confectionery & beverages, medicinal applications, perfumery

Major Varieties

Malabar Cardamom
Mysore Cardamom
Vazhukka Cardamom
Whole Cardamom Pods
Ground Cardamom Powder

Technical Specifications

Moisture Content
Max 10%
Foreign Matter
< 2%
Volatile Oil Content
3% – 8% (responsible for strong aroma)
Size Grades
6mm, 7mm, 8mm+ (export quality grading)
Shelf Life
12–18 months in proper storage conditions
Processing Forms
Whole (pods), Seeds (decorticated), Ground (powder)
Packaging Options
Laminated paper bags, PP bags, jute bags, vacuum packs, mono cartons, private-label packs (100g to 50kg)

All specifications are compliant with EU/US standards

History of Cardamom

Cardamom has been cherished for over 4,000 years, making it one of the oldest known spices. It originated in the Western Ghats of Southern India, from where it spread across the ancient spice trade routes to the Middle East and Europe. In ancient Egypt, cardamom was used in rituals, medicine, and perfumery. The Greeks and Romans valued it as a luxury spice, while in India, it has remained a staple in Ayurveda for digestion and respiratory health. Today, cardamom continues to be one of the world’s most prized spices, used in gourmet cuisine, sweets, beverages like tea and coffee, and traditional medicines.

Do You Know? 🌿

Cardamom is called the “Queen of Spices”, while black pepper is known as the “King of Spices”.
India and Guatemala are the largest producers and exporters of cardamom.
Cardamom is the third most expensive spice in the world (after saffron and vanilla).
The spice is used in both sweet and savory dishes, from curries to desserts and teas.
Cardamom oil is a key ingredient in perfumes, chewing gums, and herbal medicines.
Ancient Egyptians used cardamom for embalming and oral hygiene.
Scandinavian countries use cardamom extensively in baked goods and bread.
In Ayurveda, cardamom is known as “Elaichi” and is valued for its digestive and detoxifying properties.
Cardamom seeds retain their flavor best when stored in their whole pod form.
In Arab culture, cardamom is an essential ingredient in traditional coffee (Gahwa).

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What forms of cardamom does Sterling Exports supply?
We supply whole cardamom pods, seeds, and ground cardamom powder, as per client demand.
Q2. What makes cardamom so expensive?
Cardamom is labor-intensive to grow, requires specific climate conditions, and has high global demand, making it one of the world’s costliest spices.
Q3. What are the health benefits of cardamom?
Cardamom aids in digestion, detoxification, oral health, and respiratory wellness, and has strong antioxidant properties.
Q4. How is Sterling Exports’ cardamom packaged for international clients?
We offer flexible packaging solutions from 100g retail packs to 50kg bulk packs, including vacuum-sealed bags and private-label packaging.
Q5. Why choose Sterling Exports for cardamom exports?
With 40+ years of expertise, global certifications (BRC, HACCP, Halal, ISO 22000, Kosher), and a reputation for quality, reliability, and competitive pricing, Sterling Exports is a trusted supplier worldwide.
We also supply Mix container of Spices, Grains, Oil Seeds and Other Agricultural Commodities as per customer's requirements.
Contact Us
Contact us