Cumin (Cuminum cyminum Apiaceae)

Cumin, a herbaceous annual plant native to Egypt and Asia, grows up to 30 inches tall. It has long, branched stems bearing narrow, furrowed fruits, approximately 5 cm long, containing seeds.

Parts for Use

Seeds

1. Seeds, harvested by hand in summer from plants grown in India and the Middle East, are collected when fruits ripen.
2. Whole or ground seeds are used to prepare infusions, and their essential oil, colorless or pale yellow with a musky odor and bitter taste, is extracted.
3. Cumin is also a key ingredient in many spice blends.

Ingredients

Cumin seeds contain 2–5% essential oil, with approximately 40% cuminaldehyde. They also contain flavonoids, beneficial for minor circulatory disorders, and exhibit anti-inflammatory properties.

Use in Treatment

Cumin is effective for treating indigestion, bloating, and abdominal infections by calming the intestinal tract. A 1999 study in India confirmed its value as a food preservative, disinfectant, anti-wrinkle agent, and antibacterial agent. Externally, cumin essential oil is used in medical products to massage painful joints. A 1989 Danish study found that cumin extract reduces platelet aggregation and inflammation, suggesting potential use for thrombosis and inflammation. Cumin may also stimulate menstruation, breast milk production during breastfeeding, and is considered an aphrodisiac. Use for abdominal infections, inflammation, painful joints, thrombosis, or breastfeeding-related applications requires medical supervision due to potential risks.

Cultivation

Sow cumin seeds in spring in well-drained soil in a sunny location. Collect seeds in late summer.

Preparation and Dosage

For Internal Use (Indigestion, Bloating, Abdominal Infections)

1. Infusion: Steep 1 teaspoon of seeds in 250 ml of boiling water for 2–3 minutes, strain, and drink half a cup before a meal. Alternatively, steep 1–2 g of ground seeds in a cup of boiling water for 10–15 minutes, strain, and drink half a cup before a meal.

For External Use (Painful Joints)

1. Gels, Ointments: Gently rub into affected areas 1–2 times daily as prescribed.

Warnings

1. Consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for abdominal infections, inflammation, painful joints, thrombosis, or breastfeeding-related applications.
2. Cumin may lower blood sugar levels; diabetics should monitor blood glucose carefully.
3. Avoid cumin essential oil during pregnancy and use it only externally.
4. Large amounts of essential oil may cause nervous tension.