Contents[Hide][Show]
It is always fascinating for me to learn about the health benefits of ordinary kitchen spices. We use ground cumin powder when making chili, taco, curry or fajita (which is often the case!). In fact, cumin is the star of a whole range of Mexican, Spanish, Middle Eastern and Indian dishes.
In the US, cumin is usually used in packaged taco spices, but please … don’t eat them! Make a quick and easy mix of spices (listed later in this post) and skip the sodium and fillers found in these little packets.
Cumin is much more than just another spice to add to a spice mix. It has a distinctive taste that makes it a favorite for many, but, of course, its health-promoting properties are also impressive! I always order cumin in bulk per pound and keep a square-sized jar in my cupboard with spices for easy use. That’s why:
A little history of cumin
Like cinnamon, cumin enjoys a long and honorable history. In fact, it is one of the earliest herbs grown in Asia and Europe.
Originally native to Egypt (the ancient Egyptians actually used it in the mummification process!), This tiny seed from a small plant belonging to the parsley family became popular in ancient Greece and Rome. Interestingly, in the Middle Ages, cumin symbolized love and fidelity and was often presented at weddings or baked on bread sent with soldiers in battle. Later, Spanish and Portuguese colonists introduced it to America.
As with most spices, these and other crops value cumin not only for its aroma and aroma, but also for its healing properties. Traditional texts describe its use as a diuretic, to soothe the stomach and to stop flatulence. Some cultures have used it for women’s health and to stimulate menstruation.
Like many herbs, cumin can be used to make a poultice, especially for a swollen or sore throat. I even found a reference to a medicine for mixing cumin and melted butter to relieve hiccups!
The benefits of cumin
This common spice has many uses and benefits as a medicine and has been well studied for its effects:
Source of vitamins
Cumin is considered a good source of iron, manganese, magnesium, phosphorus and other minerals. It also contains vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E and B6, as well as useful amino acids.
Improves digestion
Some studies show that cumin can stimulate the production of pancreatic enzymes and aid digestion. This coriander and dill cumin tea is my choice for stomach aches and gas in our house. It is also good for anyone trying to heal their bowels.
Good for the brain
One study found that cumin protects against memory loss and the harmful effects of stress on the body. It stimulates the central nervous system, which has even led to studies of its potential benefits in patients with Parkinson’s disease.
Rich in antioxidants
Another study evaluated the content of antioxidants and found it to be more effective than other common antioxidants, including vitamin C. Some laboratory studies have found that it may even have a role in fighting cancer.
It can help balance blood sugar
Another study found that cumin was effective in increasing insulin sensitivity, making it useful for diabetics. In fact, a study looking at diabetic rats given cumin extract found that cumin was more effective at lowering blood sugar and producing AGE than glibenclamide, an anti-diabetic drug.
More research shows that cumin extract lowers total cholesterol, triglycerides and markers of pancreatitis in diabetic rats. It even seems to stop being overweight.
Relieves asthma
Even more research has found anti-asthmatic properties in cumin, as it acts as a bronchodilator and can help patients with asthma. As an expectorant, it loosens sputum and facilitates its removal.
Increases immunity
Mark’s Daily’s Apple published a great article detailing its benefits. From this article:
Oral doses (25, 50, 100, 200 mg / kg) on consecutive days enhanced the immune response of mice with impaired immune systems due to stress caused by restriction. These effects are marked by a decrease in the increased amount of cortisol and the adrenal glands, an increase in the weight of the thymus and spleen, and the replenishment of depleted T cells. There was a dose-dependent response, but all doses had a beneficial effect.
Helps with colds
Natural remedies for colds often include cumin because of its potential ability to speed recovery. It is a rich source of vitamin C and iron, both of which can help with recovery. The essential oils in cumin also make it useful for the body in the fight against infection and, as mentioned, some people believe that it offers relief from coughing and sneezing by drying the excess mucosa.
TIP: Mix a little cumin powder with a little raw honey to quickly treat colds.
Weight loss + detoxification
Cumin can even help with weight loss. This 2014 study examined the effects of consuming 3 grams (slightly less than a teaspoon) of cumin per day. Both groups follow the same dietary advice and reduce their calorie intake by 500 calories. After 3 months, the cumin group lost 3 kilograms more than the non-cumin control group.
Research contributes to the ability of cumin to alter the production of fatty acids in the liver due to its protective properties. In this study, cumin protected the liver of rats from toxicity due to the consumption of ethanol and rancid sunflower oil.
Good for the bones
Cumin has an antiosteoporotic effect on rats that compete with drugs, but without adverse effects. More research is needed, but it is usually considered a safe medicine.
Quite impressive benefits for an herb found in spice packs at the grocery store! If you haven’t used cumin in your cooking yet, there are many ways to use it!
Ways to use cumin
This spicy spice has many culinary applications, but it is much more than just a spice! Try these many apps to get the benefits every day!
Culinary use
There are endless ways to use this spice in the kitchen. Vital for these spice blends:
On a pinch (no pun), when I have not prepared a mixture of spices, sometimes I use only ordinary cumin to flavor tacos or fajita and we almost do not miss the other spices!
Adding cumin to omelets and scrambled eggs also works well or try rubbing the meat dry before grilling. Sprinkle on vegetables before baking or add to a little rice for a taco-flavored rice mixture.
Skin care
This may not be the first thing that comes to mind, but cumin is also great in skin care recipes. More specifically, it makes an excellent facial scrub when mixed with honey. It is naturally antibacterial and slightly exfoliates to remove impurities. A rich source of vitamin E, it also helps the skin to repair damage and stay young.
Essential oil
This is not one of the most common essential oils due to its extremely pungent aroma, but cumin essential oil is a great thing to keep in your medicine cabinet. Diluted, can be used externally to soothe the stomach. Or add a drop to a diffuser mixture to relieve nausea and purify the air.
Detox tea
Add this CCF detox tea to your digestion and weight loss routine.
Where to buy cumin
Sure, you can buy this amazing little spice at most grocery stores, but just make sure it’s high quality. I usually order it here because it is organic and tastes great!
Warnings and risks
Cumin is a culinary herb and is generally considered safe and non-toxic even in moderate doses. I add it abundantly to food and taste buds are usually a great guide to the right amount to eat.
At high doses, the drug has some potential effects. It can lower testosterone in very large doses, so men may not want to consume large amounts for long periods of time. It is used in high doses to start menstruation, so caution should be exercised with large doses in pregnant women, as there may be a risk of miscarriage.
Due to the blood sugar, brain and immune effects listed above, anyone with a medical condition should absolutely consult a doctor before using larger than the culinary amounts of this spice.
This article was medically reviewed by Dr. Jennifer Pflehaar, DO, FACEP, ABOIM. Dr. Jennifer is a certified dual-board physician and now works in emergency medicine and has an office in Ohio that practices integrative medicine. As always, this is not personal medical advice and we recommend that you talk to your doctor.
Do you use cumin? What is your favorite dish or recipe using cumin? Share below!