Cumin, scientifically known as Cuminum cyminum, is a plant belonging to the Apiaceae or the parsley family. Cumin seeds are used as a spice in different cuisines around the world, most commonly in the African, Latin American and Asian countries. In the Indian subcontinent, use of “zeera”- a native term for cumin- is extensive both in whole and powder forms. It is also used in seasoning and flavoring of food in the US. In addition to all other advantages, cumin seeds stand out among other spices due to their diverse health benefits. Packed with a number of healthful nutrients, vitamins and minerals, cumin is a medicinal herb used for the treatment of many diseases.
Anemia:
Cumin is a rich source of iron. 100g of cumin supplies 369% of the daily iron need. Iron is an important constituent of hemoglobin that makes up the Red Corpuscles of the body. Patients suffering from Anemia should include cumin in their diet to cope up with the iron glut in their body.
Breast Milk Production:
Since cumin provides iron amply, its intake is good for lactating as well as pregnant women who need increased iron in their diet as compared to other ones. Another oily compound, Thymol, present in cumin, triggers the secretions of different glands thus, making the mammary glands produce more milk with ease. Calcium content of cumin makes it further suitable for the lactating women who are in need of augmented calcium diet; 100g of cumin gives 92% of daily calcium need.
Colon Cancer:
Research shows that cumin is beneficial for patients suffering from Colon Cancer. Vitamin A & C and some other oily components, present in cumin, are antioxidants that essentially have anti-carcinogenic properties.
Insomnia:
One interesting aspect of cumin is that it induces sleep and act as a tranquilizer. Some of its components being hypnotic in nature make cumin a relaxant. Insomnia, a sleeping disorder, can be treated with cumin.
Respiratory Problem:
Common cold, a viral infection, and other respiratory disorders like bronchitis and asthma can be suppressed by the use of cumin. Antioxidants like Vitamin C protects against infections in respiratory system boosting overall immunity of the body.
Ayurvedic Remedy for Asthma: Take 10 gms of black cumin seeds (kala jeera), 20 gms of carom seeds (ajwain) and 40 grams of fenugreek (methi) seeds. Roast all the 3 and grind them finely. Have 1 tsp of this mixture daily for 45 days.
Skin Problems:
Antifungal and antimicrobial characteristics of cumin help reduce skin disorders like boils, rashes, pimples also.
Ayurvedic Remedy for Boils:
Make a paste of cumin seeds powder and water and apply this on the affected area.
Bodyache:
Cumin seeds are loaded with nutrients and are effective in treating muscle pain and inflammation.
Ayurvedic Remedy for Body ache:
Have 3 grams of cumin seeds powder with 1 cup of water. Do this twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening.
Ayurvedic Remedy for fever: Take equal quantity (1/2 cup each) of coconut water and butter milk. Add 1/2 tsp of cumin seeds and have.
Diabetes:
Increase the intake of cumin seeds in daily diet. Cumin seeds balance and lower the blood sugar level. Research is underway to provide cumin as a remedy for diabetics. Early studies show that it is a powerful tool in fight against diabetes.
Indigestion and Constipation:
Cumin seeds contain magnesium, Thymol and dietary fiber which aid in digestion and eases down the bowel movement.
Ayurvedic Remedy for Piles:
Take one tsp of cumin seeds, 1 tsp of coriander seeds, and 1 tsp of fennel (saunf) seeds and boil in a cup of water. When the water is reduced to half, filter out the water and have with 1 tsp of clarified butter (ghee) with it. Do this twice a day.
Ayurvedic remedy for Gastritis:
Boil 1 liter of water with 10 grams of cumin seeds powder. After the boil, remove the vessel from the fire and let it cool down. Filter out the solution and have this instead of water. This remedy is highly effective and widely used.
In addition to all these diseases, cumin also treats weak memory, painful insect bites and stings. Excess of everything is bad. But if right amount is included in diet, cumin can be a lot beneficial to health.