Cuminum cyminum

General information:

Cumin seeds resemble caraway (fennel) seeds, but are slightly smaller and darker in color. The powdered form is an ingredient in food because of its distinct flavor and aroma. The spice has been documented in the Bible as a medicine.
The health benefits of Cumin for digestive disorders has been well-known throughout history. It is used as a stimulant and an antispasmodic. It relieves nausea and stops diarrhea, and is used to treat morning sickness.

Constituents:

Cumin oil and cuminaldehyde have been reported to exhibit strong larvicidal and antibacterial activity (Indian Medicinal Plants—An Illustrated Dictionary, C.P.Khare. 212. 2007).

Benefits:

• Cumin helps in treating flatulence, indigestion, diarrhea, nausea, morning sickness and atonic dyspepsia.
• The herb is a good source of iron and minerals, which helps to strengthen the immune system and protects against infections.
• It is also known to relieve symptoms of the common cold and flu.