Ajwain is an Indian spice commonly used as a remedy for gastrointestinal problems like indigestion, flatulence and colic pain. Ajwain seeds possess carminative, antimicrobial and liver protective properties. It is also known to have blood pressure lowering and bronchodilatory (substance that increases airflow to the lungs) properties.
Ajwain water is an effective home remedy for indigestion and acidity. It can be prepared by adding slightly roasted Ajwain seeds to a glass of warm water. Ajmoda churna can be given to rheumatic arthritis patients to get relief from constipation. This is due to its laxative property.
An important precaution with Ajwain is that it should be avoided during pregnancy. This is because it can cause uterine contractions leading to miscarriage[2][3][5].

What are the synonyms of Ajwain?

Trachyspermum ammi, Bishop’s weed, Dipyaka, Yamani, Yamanika, Yavanika, Jain, Yauvan, Yavan, Javan, Yavani, Yoyana, Ajma, Ajmo, Javain, Jevain, Oma, Yom, Omu, Oman, Ayanodakan, Onva, Juani, Omam, Vamu

What is the source of Ajwain?

Plant Based

Precautions when using Ajwain

Allergy

Modern Science View

Apply ajwain to a small area first to test for possible allergic reaction. People who are allergic to ajwain or its constituents should use ajwain under Ayurvedic doctor’s supervision as they may develop runny nose, rash or hives[8].
Tips:
1. Ajwain or leaves paste should be used with honey or any coolant substance if your skin is hypersensitive.
2. Due to its hot potency, Ajwain Seeds oil or paste should be used with coconut oil on scalp.

Recommended Dosage of Ajwain

Ajwain Paste - ½ to 1 teaspoon or as per your requirement.
Ajwain Powder - ½ to 1 teaspoon or as per your requirement.
Ajwain Oil - 1-3 drops or as per your requirement.

How to use Ajwain

1. Ajwain leaves with Honey
a. Take ½ teaspoon of Ajwain leaves paste.
b. Mix it with honey and apply on the affected area of the skin.
c. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to get rid of skin infections like eczema, psoriasis and skin discolouration[3].

2. Ajwain Oil with Mustard or Sesame oil
a. Take 2-3 drops of Ajwain oil.
b. Mix it with mustard or sesame oil.
c. Massage onto the chest and back.
d. Repeat it once or twice day to get maximum relief.

3. Ajwain Oil with Coconut oil
a. Take 2-3 drops of Ajwain oil.
b. Mix it with coconut oil.
c. Apply evenly on the scalp at night and wash out next morning.
for better relief from dandruff use it three times a week[7].

4. Ajwain Decoction
a. Take 1 glass of water in a pan.
b. Add 1 teaspoon of ajwain seeds to it.
c. Bring it to boil on the low flame for 8-10 mins.

Frequently asked questions

Q. Where can Ajwain be found in day to day life?

Modern Science View

Ajwain is a useful spice used in many food preparations. Ajwain oil is used in the preparation of lotions and ointments in the cosmetic industries[6].

Q. How to store Ajwain?

Modern Science View

Store Ajwain in a glass or plastic jar with a well-fitting lid. Store the jar in a cool and dry place.

Q. How to prepare Ajwain water?

Modern Science View

Ajwain water can be easily prepared from Ajwain seeds at home.
1. Take 1 teaspoon of Ajwain seeds.
2. Add it to 1 glass of warm water.
3. Let it stand overnight.
4. Drink this water whenever required for its potent antispasmodic action.
5. Ajwain water is used as a traditional remedy for stomach ache due to indigestion and flatulence[10].

References

1
The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia Of India.Part 1 Volume 1.
2
Kaur GJ, Arora DS.Antibacterial and phytochemical screening of Anethum graveolens, Foeniculum vulgare and Trachyspermum ammi.BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine.2009;9(30).
3
Zarshenas MM, Moein M, Samani SM, et al. An overview on Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi)pharmacological effects; Modern and traditional.Journal of Natural Remedies.2014;14(1):98-105.
4
Petramfar P, Moein M, Samani SM, et al.Trachyspermum ammi 10 % topical cream versus placebo on neuropathic pain, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.Neurological Sciences.2016;37(9):1449-1455.
5
Bairwa R, Sodha RS, Rajawat BS.Trachyspermum ammi.Pharmacogn Rev.2012;6(11):56–60.
6
Khan R, Zakir M, Khanam Z, et al.Novel compound from Trachyspermum ammi (Ajowan caraway) seeds with antibiofilm and anti adherence activities against Streptococcus mutans: A potential chemotherapeutic agent against dental caries.Journal of Applied Microbiology.2010;109:2151–2159.
7
Ganapathi A, Roy A, Geetha RV.Antimicrobial Effects of Trachyspermum ammi on Oral Microbes.IJSER.2017;8(4):80-85.
8
WebMD.Bishops Weed: Uses, Side effects, Doses, Interactions [Internet].Atlanta [last updated in 2016].
9
Asif HM, Sultana S, Akhtar N.A panoramic view on phytochemical, nutritional, ethanobotanical uses and pharmacological values of Trachyspermum ammi L inn.Asian Pac J Trop Biomed.2014;4(2):S545-S553.
10
Chatterjee S, Goswami N, Kothari N.Evaluation of antioxidant activity of essential oil from Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi) seeds.International Journal of Green Pharmacy.2013:140-144.
11
Boskabady MH, Alizadeh M, Jahanbin B. Bronchodilatory effect of Carum copticum in airways of asthmatic patients.Therapie.2007;62:23-29.
12
Kaur T, Bijarnia R, Singla SK, et al.In vivo efficacy of Trachyspermum ammi anticalcifying protein in urolithiatic rat model.Journal of ethnopharmacology.2009;126(3):459-62.
13
Al-khazraji SM.The pain decreasing effect of the alcoholic extract of Trachyspermum ammi (L.) (Ajwain) in experimental animals.IOSR Journal of Pharmacy.2017;7(1):23-29.
14
El-Sheikh AM, Elfar NN, Mourad HA, Hewedy ES. Relationship between Trace Elements and Premature Hair Graying. Int J Trichology. 2018 Nov-Dec;10(6):278-283.
15
Krishnamoorthy V, Madalageri MB. Bishop weeds (Trachyspermum ammi): An essential crop for north Karnatka. J Med Aromat Plant Sci. 1999;21:996–998.

Disclaimer

The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.