In this article we will look at a few more common ones and then look at how this herb is used in modern supplements.
Cumin seed looks rather unassuming, it packs a punch when it comes to flavour, which can be described as penetrating and peppery with slight citrus overtones. Cumin's unique flavour complexity has made it an integral spice in the cuisines of Mexico, India and the Middle East.
Cumin seeds resemble caraway seeds, being oblong in shape, longitudinally ridged, and yellow-brown in colour. This is not surprising as both cumin and caraway, as well as parsley and dill, belong to the same plant family (Umbelliferae). The scientific name for cumin is Cuminum cyminum.
Cumin is available both in its whole seed form and ground into a powder.
Common Cold
Common Cold is a viral infection which affects our body frequently when our immune system goes weak. Again, the essential oils present in cumin act as disinfectants and help fight viral infections which cause common cold. Cumin also does not let cough formation in the respiratory system as it is supposed to be hot and dries up the excess mucus. Cumin is rich in iron and has considerable amount of vitamin C, which are essential for a good immunity and keeps infections away. Used with Wasabia japonica which also attacks the cold virus ensures you get over a cold quicker.
Piles
The main reason behind piles is constipation added with infections in the wound in the anal tract, which again is caused by constipation. Cumin, because of its dietary fibre content and carminative, stimulating, anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties due to the presence of essential oils comprising mainly of Cuminaldehyde and certain pyrazines, acts as a natural laxative in powdered form, helps healing up of infections or wounds in the digestive and excretory system and speeds up digestion too.
Insomnia
This is a very peculiar property of cumin. It is a stimulant as well as a relaxant at the same time. This property cannot be attributed to a single component alone, just as causes of insomnia cannot be attributed to a single cause. But studies show that a proper intake of vitamins (particularly B-complex) and a good digestion help induce a sound sleep. Cumin helps both of these. Some of the components of the essential oil have tranquilizing effects.
Respiratory Disorders, Asthma, Bronchitis etc.
Presence of caffeine (the stimulating agent), the richly aromatic essential oils (the disinfectants) make cumin an ideal anti congestive combination for those suffering from respiratory disorders such as Asthma, Bronchitis etc.
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 tumours. 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 farther reaching.
Another study showed Cumin was particularly effective against Ovarian Cancer.
Cumin itself has detoxifying and chemo-preventive properties and accelerates secretion of detoxifying and anti-carcinogenic enzymes from the glands, as it does to other secretions. As well as, it has nice anti-oxidants like vitamin C and vitamin A in it, in addition to those essential oils, which, besides having countless other benefits, have anti carcinogenic properties too. It is particularly good for cancer of the colon, and ovarian cancer
You can find out more information on Cumin and its health benefits and make a purchase here.
Copyright: 2017 - Present; World Wasabi Inc., All rights reserved
