Health Benefits Of Jeera (Cumin Seeds)

Cumin is a spice used in cuisines especially from the Mediterranean and Southwest Asian region. The flavour of cumin has been described as earthy, nutty, spicy and warm. It lends a distinct flavour to chilli, tamales and Indian curries. For ages, this spice has been traditionally used not only because of its incredible flavour, but also because of its medicinal properties. It is abundant in a phytochemical compound called cumin aldehyde and exhibits medicinal properties that fight diabetes, epilepsy, tumours and increases immunity.

Modern studies have confirmed some of the health benefits cumin is traditionally known for, including promoting digestion and reducing food-borne infections.

Here is a list of 5 such evidence-based health benefits of this versatile spice:

* Promotes digestion

Cumin is one of the most gut-friendly herbs, and promotes pancreatic enzymes, assisting in the digestion process. Cumin seeds contain thymol and essential oils that stimulate the salivary gland, thereby easing digestion. People with a weak digestive system are recommended to drink jeera water early in the morning on empty stomach for better digestion and to decrease flatulence.

* Rich source of iron

Cumin is very dense in iron, providing almost 20% of your daily iron in one teaspoon.One teaspoon of ground cumin contains 1.4 mg of iron. Few foods are as iron-dense as cumin. This makes it a good iron source, even when used in small amounts as a seasoning. It supports

* Has antioxidant properties

Cumin contains lots of plant compounds which function as anti-oxidants. Cumin contains antioxidants that stabilize free radicals which can cause inflammation and damage DNA. The oxidation of fatty acids in your arteries leads to clogged arteries and heart disease. Oxidation also leads to inflammation in diabetes, and the oxidation of DNA can contribute to cancer

* May prevent food-borne illness

Cumin is a rich source of dietary fibre, exhibits carminative, anti-fungal, and anti-microbial properties. The essential oils cumin aldehyde and pyrazines in jeera act as a natural laxative, aids in curing infections or wounds in the excretory system.

* Relieves asthma and cold

The powerful anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties of cumin seeds, making it a wonderful remedy for treating asthma and cold. It acts as an expectorant, loosen up the phlegm and mucus in the respiratory tracts and makes it easier to eliminate. The essential oil act as a disinfectant and helps ward off infections and boost immunity.

* Better Memory

Packed with a bunch of minerals and vitamins such as riboflavin, vitamin B6, zeaxanthin, and niacin consuming cumin is beneficial for the brain to function properly. Cumin helps in promoting better mental health and sharpen the memory by nourishing the brain cells.

Aside from the above benefits, cumin is also great aid for weight loss. Cumin not only helps in losing weight quickly but also influences the body’s fat profile in a positive way by reducing the levels of harmful lipids in the blood. Owing to this property, cumin may also be helpful in regulating the blood cholesterol levels.