Cumin Seeds

Iron for Energy and Immune Function

Cumin seeds, whose scientific name is Cuminum cyminum, are a very good source of iron, a mineral that plays many vital roles in the body. Iron is an integral component of hemoglobin, which transports oxygen from the lungs to all body cells, and is also part of key enzyme systems for energy production and metabolism. Additionally, iron is instrumental in keeping your immune system healthy. Iron is particularly important for menstruating women, who lose iron each month during menses. Additionally, growing children and adolescents have increased needs for iron, as do women who are pregnant or lactating.

Seeds of Good Digestion

Cumin seeds have traditionally been noted to be of benefit to the digestive system, and scientific research is beginning to bear out cumin's age-old reputation. Research has shown that cumin may stimulate the secretion of pancreatic enzymes, compounds necessary for proper digestion and nutrient assimilation.

Cancer Prevention

Cumin seeds may also have anti-carcinogenic properties. In one study, cumin was shown to protect laboratory animals from developing stomach or liver tumors. This cancer-protective effect may be due to cumin's potent free radical scavenging abilities as well as the ability it has shown to enhance the liver's detoxification enzymes. Yet, since free radical scavenging and detoxification are important considerations for the general maintenance of wellness, cumin's contribution to wellness may be even more farther reaching.

Home remedies using Cumin*

1. A fine paste of cumin seeds (cumin seeds ground with water), when applied on boils or aching body parts gives relief from pain.

2. Water boiled with ground Cumin has to be given regularly to lactating mothers. This increases breast milk and reduces inflammation of uterus.

3. Boil ground Cumin in water and allow it to cool down. Add a pinch of cardamom to filtered Cumin water. Gargling with this flavored water helps to keep the mouth fresh, heals mouth ulcers and eliminates foul smell.

4. Roast Cumin without oil till it warm. Grind this to a fine powder along with rock salt. Massage gums with this powder. This helps to prevent bleeding from gums and strengthens them.

5. Boil a tea spoon of Cumin in a glass of water, allow it to cool. Consuming this water frequently relieves indigestion and flatulence.

6. Consuming powdered Cumin with honey reduces colic pain and reduces diarrhea caused due to indigestion.

7. A tea prepared by boiling cumin seeds and a small piece of fresh ginger help to give relief in common cold.

8. Mix a spoon of ground roasted cumin seeds ,½ spoon of fresh ginger juice and a pinch of salt in a glass of butter milk. Frequent consumption of this butter milk helps to relieve piles and sooths inflamed intestine.

9. Patients suffering from irritable bowel syndrome can use pomegranate juice mixed with roasted and ground Cumin powder. This helps to reduce frequency of stools and sooths colon.

Precaution has to be taken while roasting cumin seeds. Cumin seeds have to be roasted in low heat till it becomes warm and should be taken off from stove when it is sufficiently warm to touch. This precaution helps to prevent the escape of volatile compounds of Cumin.

*These remedies are a collection of treatments that may not have been scientifically proven. Please these remedies with a sense of caution. We do not by any means endorse these remedies as cures and as a substitute for medications prescribed by your physician. Please consult a Naturopathic, Homeopathic, Ayurvedic, or a holistic physician before trying any of the above stated remedies.