Cumin seeds or Jeera is a staple of the Indian kitchens. It is used as seasoning for curries, sabjis, dals, even as seasoning in raitas, buttermilk and dips. Known for its warm taste and distinct fragrance, jeera powder can spruce up most dishes. Considered as one of the healthiest foods in the world, jeera aids digestion, helps with respiratory disorders, improves skin conditions, reduces boils, anaemia, is beneficial for lactating women, the list seems endless.
Here are some of the health benefits of Jeera:
1 . Aids In Digestion
Jeera and other similar seeds are high in dietary fibre. They help cool the body and aid digestion. Essential oils in jeera help the body secrete saliva and other gastro-intestinal enzymes, which help work as a remedy for babies with colic, morning sickness, flatulence & bloating, diahrrea & indigestion.
-Boil 1 spoon of cumin seeds with 300 ml of water, cool strain and cool this mix. Drink after every meal to improve digestion.
-Mix 3 spoons of yoghurt with 1 cup of water to make a watery chaas, season with salt, ¾ teaspoon cumin powder & mint leaves. Drink after each meal to combat indigestion.
2 . Increases Production of Breast Milk
Cumin is packed with iron, which helps improve health of a lactating woman, and helps deal with post-partum weakness. Jeera increase the production of breast milk and has been used as a home remedy for centuries, in the Indian Sub-Continent.
-Soak a spoonful of jeera in 300-400 ml of water, overnight. Drink this mix every morning to increase lactation. Also use jeera powder as seasoning all your food.
3 . Lowers Cholesterol
Jeera is packed with anti-oxidants which helps maintain and reduce cholesterol levels. Studies show that enzymes in cumin reduce oxidized LDL, triglycerides and other bad fats in the blood stream. Cumin Tea is beneficial in both losing weight and lowering cholesterol.
-Steep 1 spoon of cumin seeds in hot water for 5-7 minutes and drink it after meals.
4 . Wards Off Cancer
Black Cumin or Kala jeera contains an enzyme called cuminaldehyde that reduces the growth of tumours. Regular consumption of cumin can help prevent certain types of cancers.
-Roast whole grain kala jeera in small quantities. Season everyday food with freshly ground kala jeera to enjoy the anti-cancer properties of cumin.
5 . Cures Common Cold & flu
Jeera is packed with Vitamins A, B complex, & C and these vitamins help build immunity and keep minor infections at bay. Anti-bacterial, anti-microbial and anti-fungal in nature, it is also anti-inflammatory in nature and helps to cure common cold and other respiratory disorders.
-Boil cumin seeds with a cup of water, add a small piece of ginger and let this boil. Strain, add honey and a few drops of lemon juice, and drink this tea while warm for instant relief.
In addition to these, jeera also helps to maintain blood sugar levels, improves sexual health, and is good for menstruating and pregnant women. It helps to reduce insomnia, improves memory and improves general health and immunity.
So, go ahead and add this spice to your life and reap its amazing benefits. Eat healthy, Stay healthy.