“You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill and cumin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former.” Matthew 23:23
What is Cumin?
Cumin seeds are yellow-brown, nutty, peppery seeds. A part of the parsley family, it is similar to but stronger than caraway. It is usually ground into a powder.
Don’t confuse this with black cumin (nigella satvia) or curcumin. They are not related. They often get mixed together on the internet, so make sure you are reading about the correct seed.
Used in Mexican, Middle Eastern, Indian and Chinese foods. It is a main ingredient in curry and chili powders.
Nutrients
- Excellent source of iron
- Great source of manganese
- Good source of magnesium, copper, calcium, phosphorus and B1
Medicinal Uses
✅ Several of the studies have only been done on animals. Human studies have not yet been done.
✅ Eases indigestion, bloating, constipation (and hemorrhoids caused by it), loss of appetite, flatulence – 1 tsp powder with honey 2x day.
✅ Lowers cholesterol and triglycerides.
✅ Delays the formation of cataracts in animals with type 2 diabetes.
✅ Enzymatic properties help break down food, aiding digestion and nutrient absorption.
✅ May help prevent diabetes by reducing blood glucose levels.
✅ Has cancer preventative properties due to it’s antioxidant effects with to its ability to search out free radicals and it contains liver detoxification enzymes.
✅ Helps boost weight loss, more specifically the reduction of body fat.
✅ Boosts immunity.
✅ May improve concentration and enhance memory.
✅ Helps clear respiratory disorders.
✅ Increases milk supply in lactating mothers.
✅ Use for healthy benefits- generally 1 tsp per day. Divided doses are best.
Safety
Warning- Generally safe unless taken in extreme amounts, such as 25 grams a day, which is unlikely. However it may lower blood sugar, so keep an eye on it if you are diabetic or if you are having surgery.
Shopping and Storage
Ground powder looses flavor quickly, so grinding your own seeds is best.
Keep well sealed in a dark, dry, cool place.
- seeds- 1 year
- powder- 6 months
Roast seeds before using for better flavor.
Cooking
Use seeds in boiling water to make a tea.
Sprinkle on sauteed vegetables such as cauliflower, sweet potatoes, carrots, squash. This is my favorite way to use it.
Add to dressings and mayonnaise.
Add to ground beef, stews, chicken dishes, soups.
Sprinkle on rice and beans.
Stir it into scrambled eggs.
Use in tacos, burritos, chili, couscous and potatoes.
Have you tried cumin for health purposes?
What is your favorite way to cook with cumin?
Aggarwal, Bharat B., Ph.D. Healing Spices.
Effect of cumin powder on body composition and lipid profile in overweight and obese women.
Hypolipidemic Effect of Cuminum Cyminum L. on Alloxan-induced Diabetic Rats
Peppers and Planks 