Most of the claimed benefits of cumin are related to digestion, the immune system, and circulation. Some of the benefits of cumin can be shown in clinical studies, and some are still difficult to prove.
Health Benefits:
1. Contains antioxidants
Cumin seeds contain natural substances that act as antioxidants. This means that these substances (called apigenin and luteolin) will prevent the tiny free radicals that attack healthy cells from successfully. Antioxidants can help you feel healthier and more energetic, and help prevent your skin from getting older or aged.
2. Promotes digestion
Cumin helps digestion by increasing the activity of digestive proteins. It can also reduce the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. You may refer to the studies below:
Cumin is very helpful for people who are trying to control their weight. A 2015 study involving overweight adults compared the effects of cumin with weight loss drugs and placebos on weight loss.
3. May help lower cholesterol level
In multiple studies, cumin supplements improved blood cholesterol. It is not clear whether using cumin in small amounts as a condiment has the same benefits.
Some research suggests that taking cumin can help lower cholesterol or blood lipid levels. However, since most studies have been done on people with normal blood lipids or cholesterol levels, it is not clear whether cumin is helpful for people with abnormal blood lipids.
4. May boost memory
Cumin can help your body be more effective by stimulating your central nervous system. This can lead to clearer memory and better control of your limbs. Cumin may even help treat Parkinson's disease because it helps the body's central nervous system function.
Cumin has many benefits, from helping to improve digestion to enhancing memory. Cumin can also prevent cancer cells from multiplying and help relieve pain through its anti-inflammatory properties.
The proper dosage of Cumin depends on several factors such as the user's age, health, and many other conditions. At this time, there is not enough scientific information to determine the appropriate dosage range. Keep in mind that natural products are not always safe and doses can be important. A pharmacist should consult a doctor or other healthcare professional before using according to the relevant guidelines on the product label.
Healthy Recipes
1. Lemon-Cumin Rice
Ingredients:
1 1/2 cup of basmati rice
1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
2 teaspoon of cumin seeds
1 chopped onions
1 teaspoons of kosher salt
1/4 cup of sliced almonds
1 lemon juice
Directions:
1. Soak 1 1/2 cups basmati rice in cold water, 15 minutes; drain.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a saucepan over medium-high heat.
3. Add 2 teaspoons of cumin seeds; cook 30 seconds.
4. Add 1 chopped onion and cook, stirring, 5 minutes.
5. Add 2 1/4 cups water, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, the rice, and 3 strips lemon zest.
6. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook over low heat, 15 minutes.
7. Let stand off the heat, 10 minutes.
8. Stir in 1/4 cup toasted sliced almonds, and lemon juice to taste.
2. Cumin Coriander Fennel Tea (for Digestion and Weight Loss)
Ingredients:
½ tsp whole dried fennel seeds
½ tsp whole dried coriander seeds
½ tsp whole dried cumin seeds
3 cups of water
Directions:
1. For the best flavor, roast the seeds on a baking sheet at 350 for about 5-8 minutes until fragrant and golden. This is optional but I find it really improves the flavor.
2. Grind the seeds- place the fennel, coriander, and cumin seeds in a coffee grinder or use a mortar and pestle to create a fine powder.
3. You need to put this powder and water in a small saucepan and bring it to a boil. Boil for 5 minutes until fragrant, remove from heat. Add cinnamon and ginger and mix. Add raw honey before making.
4. Filter through a fine-mesh metal filter and drink immediately or pour over ice for a cold drink. It can also be made in large batches, chilled, and stored in the refrigerator until ready to eat.