In this article, we are going to discuss cumin. We are going to learn more about what it really is, how and where to use it, the different health benefits it offers and more. You are sure to learn a lot from this article, so sit back, relax and enjoy the read!
What is Cumin?
Scientifically known as Cuminum cyminum, cumin is a flowering plant belonging to the Apiaceae family. Cumin seeds are popular as a spice or condiment in various Indian dishes, as well as in other Asian, American and Latin American countries, where it is loved for its earthy and warm flavour. Due to its potent aroma, only a small amount is needed to give dishes a powerful kick. Usually, cumin is purchased in whole dried seeds form or in ground powder form.
Apart from cooking, the cumin has been a popular medical treatment in various parts of the world for many years. Both cumin essential oil and cumin are oozing with essential nutrients.
In various Southeast Asian countries, it is used for digestion, liver health, pain relief and to ease coughs. In fact, in Iran, people use cumin to treat seizures. In Tunisia, it is used to get rid of infections and lower blood pressure.
Nutrition Content of Cumin
As stated earlier, cumin is oozing with essential nutrients. Refer to the table below to know more.
| Principle | Nutrient Value | Percentage of RDA |
| Energy | 375 Kcal | 19% |
| Carbohydrates | 44.24 grams | 34% |
| Protein | 17.8 grams | 32% |
| Total Fat | 22.27grams | 74% |
| Cholesterol | 0 milligrams | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber | 10.5 grams | 26% |
| Vitamins | ||
| Folates | 10 micrograms | 2.5% |
| Niacin | 4.58 milligrams | 28.5% |
| Pyridoxine | 0.435 milligrams | 33% |
| Riboflavin | 0.32 milligrams | 24.5% |
| Thiamin | 0.628 milligrams | 52% |
| Vitamin A | 1270 IU | 42% |
| Vitamin C | 7.7 milligrams | 13% |
| Vitamin E | 3.3 milligrams | 22% |
| Vitamin K | 5.4 micrograms | 4.5% |
| Electrolytes | ||
| Sodium | 1788 milligrams | 38% |
| Potassium | 68 milligrams | 11% |
| Minerals | ||
| Calcium | 931 milligrams | 93% |
| Copper | 0.867 milligrams | 96% |
| Iron | 66.36 milligrams | 829% |
| Magnesium | 366 milligrams | 91% |
| Manganese | 3.3 milligrams | 145% |
| Phosphorus | 499 milligrams | 71% |
| Zinc | 4.8 milligrams | 43.5% |
| Phyto-nutrients | ||
| Carotene-ß | 762 micrograms | — |
| Crypto-xanthin-ß | 0 micrograms | — |
| Lutein-zeaxanthin | 448 micrograms | — |
Uses of Cumin
Due to its unique fragrance and flavor, cumin seeds, cumin essential oil, or ground cumin is beneficial in a lot of ways, including:
- When you mix the ground cumin with pepper and honey, it may work as an aphrodisiac. This particular concoction is very popular among Arabs.
- Medicinal Uses. Cumin seeds are beneficial in producing medicines used to treat gas, muscle spasms, bowel disorders, inflammation, colic and diarrhea.
- Flavoring agent. It is adds flavor to various desserts and alcoholic beverages.
- Personal care. Cumin essential oil is used as a scent in cosmetics, lotions, perfumes and creams.
- Culinary Uses. Traditionally, cumin is used as a spice in Indian cooking. It is also a major part of soups, curries, stews and other food products.
Health Benefits of Cumin
Here are some of the health benefits of cumin:
- Helps prevent cancer. This is probably one of the best health benefits of cumin, and all thanks to its anti-carcinogenic, chemopreventive and antioxidant properties.
- Helps prevent anaemia. Cumin helps relieve the symptoms of anemia, including cognitive malfunction, digestive issues, anxiety and fatigue.
- Helps prevent diabetes. Cumin is beneficial in reducing the risk of hypoglycemia and decreasing glycosuria, an illness wherein the urine has a lot of glucose in it, resulting in diabetes and hypoglycemia.
- Helps boost immunity. There is an abundant supply of iron in cumin, as well as vitamins A and C. These are beneficial in giving the immune system a boost and neutralizing free radicals, which may lead to cardiovascular disease, cancer or more.
- Helps provide iron. Cumin is oozing with iron. This is beneficial in increasing hemoglobin levels, thus improving blood flow and promoting a healthy menstrual cycle.
- Helps regulate digestion. Cumin is essential treating various digestive problems. It is also carminative, meaning it relieves gas and stomachaches.
There is no doubt that cumin is really beneficial for the health. If you want to take your health to the next level, try adding this to your diet!
