Cumin is an important spice common in Indian Subcontinent and some other Asian, African and Latin American countries. It is scientifically known as Cuminum Cyminum. So many spices in the market are simply made from important plants. Especially mixed spices chutneys, and chilli and curry powders, cumin is especially popular in Asian, North African, and Latin American cuisines. This post will tell you all the health benefits of cumin you need to know.
It is important not to confuse cumin with black seed or black cumin, because they almost look alike and have similar functions, but there are not the same.
Uses of cumin
This spicy plant has a lot of uses, though may be dependent on location.
Medicinal use
The cumin plant is used for medicinal purposes because of the powerful healing ingredients it contains. It is also packed with antioxidants which help to protect the from free radicals that can cause cancer. One of these antioxidants presents is a flavonoid.
It is also an important source of many vitamins and minerals such as; magnesium, calcium, iron and phosphorus. Also rich in vitamins A, C, E, K and B6. Consuming about 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds can meet the daily requirement
Used as Spicy
This seems to be the most popular and common use of cumin, because of its
distinctive flavour and aroma. It is used in cooking in many homes mixed with other ingredients or alone, it could be in ground form or as whole seed.
Used in production
Cumin can also be used in the production of cheese, bread etc.
Health Benefits of Cumin
Some of the benefits one can enjoy by consuming cumin are discussed below. Also for this reason, it is advisable to have cumin at home to enjoy these benefits. There are;
Digestion
Cumin is a good source of thymol, which is a compound that helps stimulate the glands that secrete acids, bile and enzymes responsible for the complete digestion of food in the stomach and in the intestines. It relieves stomach aches and gas troubles (bloating) and aid digestion due to essential oils, magnesium and sodium content.
Also, the aroma of cumin which comes from an aromatic organic compound called cuminaldehyde activates the salivary gland in the mouth which speeds up primary digestion.
Prevention of Cancer
This wonderful plant cumin contains detoxifying and chemopreventive properties because they accelerate the secretion of detoxifying and anticarcinogenic enzymes from the glands. Furthermore, antioxidants like vitamin C and vitamin-A, flavonoids within their chemical makeup, help to combat free radicals in the body thereby preventing cancer.
Good for Anemia Patients
Cumin is a very good source of iron (more than 66 mg. in every 100 grams), which is about 5 times the daily requirement of iron for an adult. Iron is an integral constituent of hemoglobin in the red blood corpuscles of the blood, that transports oxygen to different parts of the body. Its deficiency leads to Anemia.
Therefore, cumin can be recommended as a nutritious additive to the daily diet for anemic people. This helps to avoid the symptoms of anemia such as fatigue, anxiety, cognitive malfunction, and digestive issues.
Prevents Hemorrhoids
The main cause of hemorrhoids is increased pressure in the lower rectum due to: straining during bowel movements. This increased pressure is can be due to constipation added to infections. In many cases, hemorrhoids can go away on their own after a few days.
Cumin due to its dietary fibre content and carminative, stimulating, antifungal and antimicrobial properties, can act as a natural laxative, especially when used in powdered form. These roles are achieved because of the presence of the essential oils Cuminaldehyde and certain pyrazines.
Other benefits of cumin
Aside from the above-mentioned benefits, cumin has also proven to be beneficial in treating renal coli, weak memory, insect bites and painful stings.
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