Cumin seeds have been extensively used in culinary preparations in the Indian subcontinent since ages. Cumin seeds not only add taste to food but also are very beneficial for body. Cumin seeds, whose scientific name is Cuminum cyminum, are an excellent source of iron, a mineral that plays many vital roles in the body.

Cumin is a rich source of thymol. Thymol is used as an anthelmintic against hookworm infections and also as an antiseptic.

Benefits

• Cumin is a rich source of Iron, hence it is very beneficial for anaemic as well as lactating mothers and pregnant women, who tend to need iron more than others.
• Cumin seeds have traditionally been noted to be of benefit to the digestive system, it is a great aid in digestion and prevents indigestion, flatulence, diarrhoea, nausea and morning sickness.(For immediate relief from acidity, chew a pinch-full of raw cumin seeds.)
• Beneficial for treatment of piles.(Roast cumin seeds and make powder. This powder is taken with water and is very effective for piles treatment.)
• Cumin has been found beneficiary for curing common cold. It doesn’t let cough to form and collect in the respiratory system. Since it is supposed to be hot, it dries up all the mucous.
• Cumin seeds are also known for its antiseptic properties.
• Cumin seeds may also have anti-carcinogenic properties. In one study, cumin was shown to protect laboratory animals from developing stomach or liver tumours.
• One study found that cumin was protective against memory loss and the damaging effects of stress on the body.