Cumin seeds are not just known for their strong flavour in Indian cooking. They also include a natural chemical called cuminaldehyde, which has several health benefits.

Health benefits of cumin seeds

  • Adding just 3 grams of cumin powder to your daily diet can support weight loss, especially if you’re trying to manage your weight.
  • Cumin helps to lower bad cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing the good kind of cholesterol.
  • Including cumin in your meals daily can help control blood sugar levels.
  • Cumin can give relief from stomach problems like gas, acidity, constipation, and irritable bowel syndrome. Taking it daily for 4 weeks can show good results.
  • Cumin helps to reduce stress and protects your body’s cells from damage.
  • Cumin seed oil, rich in vitamins A and C, has antifungal properties. It helps to fight infections and supports stronger immunity. It can also be beneficial to apply the oil on your skin.
  • Its iron content helps to prevent anaemia during menstruation and may help with irregular menstrual cycles.
  • Cumin water is known to help with diarrhoea and other tummy troubles.
  • Daily use might reduce the risk of cancers related to the stomach, liver, or intestines.
  • The anti-inflammatory property in cumin helps protect against heart disease and memory loss.
  • Cumin has melatonin and magnesium, which help to boost brain power and promote better sleep.

How to include cumin seeds in your diet

  • One can take about 3 grams of cumin powder each day.
  • Cumin seed water is suitable for adults and is particularly beneficial for low-iron women.
  • Pregnant women may benefit from cumin, as it helps with digestion and improves in production of breast milk
  • Drinking cumin water in the morning can prevent gas and improve digestion.
  • Cumin can be added to curd or buttermilk to aid in weight loss and digestion.

Things to consider

  • Consuming more than 3 grams daily could cause excessive blood thinning.
  • Overuse might increase the risk of miscarriage or infertility.
  • Some people may get extremely low blood sugar as a result of it.
  • A few people may be allergic to cumin.

Easy Jeera (Cumin) Rice recipe

Ingredients

  • Basmati rice - 1 cup
  • Bay leaf - 1
  • Cinnamon - A small piece
  • Cloves - 5
  • Cardamom - 2
  • Cumin seeds - 2 teaspoon
  • Salt to taste
  • Ghee - 1 tbsp
  • Green chillies - 2
  • Coriander leaves - 1 tbsp chopped

Steps

  • Cook the basmati rice and keep it aside.
  • In a pan, heat 1 tbsp ghee.
  • Add the bay leaves, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, cumin seeds, and green chilli. Sauté it well.
  • Add the rice and mix in gently. Be careful not to overcook the rice.
  • Add salt to taste. Close the lid and cook on a low flame for 5 minutes.
  • Sprinkle coriander leaves on top and turn off the heat.