Cumin seeds, commonly known as jeera in Indian, are dark brown seeds with a very distinctive flavor. They are known for their strong aroma and bitter warm taste. The most common method of consuming jeera is by roasting. Cumin seed is also known for its curing characteristics and hence it is used in many herbal and Ayurvedic medicines.
Consumption and use of cumin seeds
Traditionally, it has been used in natural remedies and herbal medicine. Traditional texts describe its use as a diuretic and to settle the stomach and stop flatulence. Like many herbs cumin seeds can be used for swelling or sore throat. Cumin seeds are used in cooking and the oil is used to flavor food and scent cosmetics. These days cumin seeds with water have become a popular drink for people aiming for weight loss.
Benefits of Cumin Seeds
Good for Stomach
Cumin water helps get rid of acidity and bloating, and provides relief from indigestion. It acts as a painkiller and is especially beneficial in curing stomach ache and abdominal pain.” Cumin water generally stimulates the secretion of digestive enzymes and accelerates the digestion process, thus helping you fight gut issues.
Regulates blood pressure
Cumin water is high in potassium content. Potassium is a key mineral that the body relies on for proper functioning. It helps to regulate blood pressure by balancing out the negative effects of salt. Since cumin water is high in potassium, it can be used as a tool to manage blood pressure.
Boosts immunity
Cumin seeds are rich in iron, essential oils, vitamin C and vitamin A which helps in increasing our immunity in a number of ways. Vitamin C is one of the most powerful antioxidants that stimulate the function and activity of white blood cells. It further helps neutralize free radicals that lead to many diseases, including, but not limited to, cardiovascular diseases and cancer.
Helps in maintaining respiratory health
The presence of caffeine (a stimulating agent) and the richly aromatic essential oils (the disinfectants) make cumin an ideal anti-congestive combination for those suffering from respiratory disorders such as asthma and bronchitis. It loosens up the accumulated phlegm and mucus in the respiratory tracts and makes it easier to eliminate them from the system via sneezing or coughing. Even if you are not suffering from asthma or bronchitis, including cumin in your diet can help your body to maintain a healthy respiratory system.
Can help in weight loss
Cumin can help in burning calories faster by increasing the speed of metabolism and improving digestion. When you have a healthy digestive system and a faster metabolism, you will increase the chances of weight loss. Cumin seeds alone might not work alone but if you add the with a good nutrition and exercise plan, then you will definitely see results and lose weight.
Good for skin
Cumin seeds contain high amounts of potassium, selenium, copper, calcium and manganese which help in rejuvenating our skin. Topical application of cumin also helps to regulate sebum glands and give a naturally glowing complexion. The anti fungal and powerful anti bacterial properties helps to get rid of itchiness on the skin. Since it is anti inflammatory, it can also be used to fight pimples, acne and other skin infections since it reduces inflammation and makes way for new and rejuvenated skin. Your skin also starts glowing because of antioxidants in cumin. It also cures boils and stops its further growth.
Cumin as per Ayurveda
Jeera is an Indian spice as well as Ayurvedic medicine used for several diseases of digestive, respiratory, circulatory and reproductive system. It becomes an important part of India spices as it promotes healthy digestion and prevents diseases related to abdominal organs. In Ayurvedic medicine, it is used because of its carminative, antispasmodic, digestive stimulant, antacid, diuretic actions. It helps to create peptic disorders, flatulence, intestinal gas, loss of appetite, nausea etc.
Ayurvedic properties
Taste- Bitter
Physical Properties- Light, Dry
Potency- Hot
Metabolic Property (After Digestion) – Pungent
Health and fitness 