Cumin Seeds

Cumin seeds are an essential part of Indian and Middle East kitchens. They add zest to the dishes and provide a nutty, peppery flavor. They are simulative of caraway seeds in their appearance as oblong shaped, brown colored spice. They also possess longitudinal ridges and are available commercially, throughout the year. Cuminum cyminum, as cumin seeds are botanically known, belong to the Umbelliferae family and play a vital part in Indian curry powders.


In addition to the taste and flavor, cumin seeds are a storehouse of therapeutic effects, digestion being the predominant one.

Cumin seeds are a good source of iron. Iron is an essential part of the enzymes, associated with metabolism and energy production. Iron is an integral part of hemoglobin in blood, and thereby helps in oxygen transport to the various tissues and organs.


Immunity is boosted by iron in cumin seeds. Iron is also essential for menstruating women and growing children. They are famous for their digestive action.


A decoction of cumin seeds in boiling water aids in digestion. Enzymes of the pancreas, essential for assimilation of nutrients and digestion are triggered by cumin seeds.

Cancer prevention is another area of importance, with respect to cumin seeds. The anti carcinogenic or cancer prevention property is owed to the free radical scavenging ability of these seeds.


Stomach and liver cancers in experimental animals were prevented. Enhancement of the detoxification enzymes is also seen. It is a general well wisher for all individuals. A jet of flavor is released on the addition of a pinch of cumin seed powder. They are available commercially as whole seeds and as powder. It was used to mummify pharaohs, in the ancient age. It has originated in Egypt and also has a mention in the bible. Pepper was expensive in the olden days and hence cumin seeds were considered a replacement, as they were cost effective.  It signified stinginess amidst people and emperors in olden periods. It was also considered as a symbol of love and fidelity.

Cumin seeds are preferred to cumin powder, as the latter loses the flavor and freshness. Storage in dark places and air tight containers retain freshness. Shelf life is for a year, whereas ground cumin holds good for six months. They are devoid of high amounts of purines, goitrogens or oxalates and are not allergic in nature. They are a good source of manganese and iron, wherein a teaspoon providing 3 per cent and 7.33 per cent of the daily value of manganese and iron respectively.