Cumin and its benefits

Cumin and its benefits

Cumin is a spice with many benefits. In this blog, we will explore the origin or cumin and its different uses. 

What is cumin? 

Cumin originated in Egypt. Ancient Egyptians used it both as a spice and as an element in preserving mummies. It comes from the dried seed of a plant known as Cuminum cyminum, which is a member of the parsley familyCumin is one of the most popular spices and is commonly used in many different cuisines. It is available both as whole seeds as well as in ground form. It has a warm earthy flavor and aroma with a bit of both sweetness and bitterness. The whole seeds need to be toasted in order to reach the optimum flavor.

Health benefits of cumin

In addition to its distinctive aroma, cumin has many health benefits. Traditionally, Ayurveda used cumin as a traditional medicine to treat a variety of diseases. Recent studies have validated the healthy powers of cumin. 
  • Studies show that cumin has many beneficial health effects particularly in diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension, respiratory disorders, inflammatory diseases and cancer. Here is how they help in the treatment of these diseases: 
    • In diabetes, cumin improves glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity
    • As for hypertension, it helps in reducing body weight, as well as tissue cholesterol and triglycerides
    • Cancer prevention is due to its antioxidant compounds 
    • The respiratory problems can be cured due to the antiseptic and antimicrobial qualities of cumin 
  • Cumin aids in healthy digestion and may help in digestive disorders like acid reflux, indigestion, flatulence and irritable bowel syndrome
  • It is also high in iron and helps in the treatment of iron deficiency anemia

How can I use it? 

There are different ways you can use cumin and get its benefits. Using cumin in cooking as a spice adds a distinctive flavor to your food. Moreover, you can drink it as a tea, by adding 1 teaspoon to boiling water and letting it stand for 5 minutes. You can add to it honey or a pinch of salt and a squeeze of lemon depending on your taste. In Indian cuisine, cumin seeds are often chewed as a digestive aid and may be offered at Indian restaurants at the completion of a meal for this purpose. 

These quantities will provide antioxidant and potential benefits for controlling blood sugar. For other benefits like weight loss and improved blood cholesterol, higher doses might be required, probably in supplement form. Always consult your physician before taking any kind of supplements. 

Conclusion 

Cumin is high in iron and contains plant compounds that are antioxidants. Studies have shown that cumin may improve cholesterol levels, promote weight loss, and help prevent diabetes, hypertension and cancer. Furthermore, you can use it like a mouth refresher. So why not start trying to add it to your daily routine and enjoy its lovely taste and many benefits.