Cumin, which has numerous health benefits, can be bought as whole dried seeds or ground powder.
It has played a medicinal role in many parts of the world for years.
Note that all participants were prescribed alower-calorie diet, which was meant to result in weight loss.
photograph by dorisj / Getty Images
However, the research is mixed, and more evidence is needed.
Participants in one study were given 20 drops of cumin extract divided into two doses for four weeks.
However, the frequency increased to four weeks after stopping the treatment.
Cumin seeds demonstrate antioxidant activity on cells induced byoxidative stress.
However, more human trials are needed.
Add it to soups and stews, especially those with beans or lentils.
Cumin’s nutritional information includes:
Cumin is used in many types of cooking.
Its warm earthiness is the main flavor in chili or taco seasoning.
It pairs well with red pepper, oregano, cinnamon, thyme, andturmeric.
Who Should Avoid Cumin?
Cumin seeds can be processed into cumin powder in facilities that process nuts and tree nuts.
If you have atree nut allergy, you may want to check to see if there is anycross-contamination.
Cumin is one way to flavor foods and add nutrition and healthful plant-based compounds.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Information regarding the safety of cumin supplementation duringpregnancyandbreastfeedingis lacking.
Therefore, it is advised to stick to safe levels used in cooking.
Because cumin mightslow blood clotting, theoretically, it could worsen bleeding disorders, but the research is lacking.
Risks
Culinary use of cumin is safe and delicious.
You may also find it in extract form or as an essential oil.
Do not confuse cumin withblack seed cumin, as these are different.
One teaspoon of cumin powder is about 3 grams.
If you want to use cumin as a supplement, work with a healthcare provider to ensure its safety.
Summary
Cumin has been used medicinally for a variety of health conditions worldwide.
It is an aromatic spice that adds flavor and depth to different dishes.
It also contains a variety of plant-based compounds that can provide health benefits.
It has been studied for its anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects.
Human studies are lacking, and it is unclear how much cumin is needed to have desirable effects.
Culinary use has little downside unless you are allergic or cannot consume it for other reasons.
Mnif S, Aifa S.Cumin (cuminum cyminum L.) from traditional uses to potential biomedical applications.Chem Biodivers.
Food Revolution web connection.What is cumin, and should you eat it for your health?
Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed).
National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.Cumin.