The three main reasons I like and use Cumin are:
Cumin Tea in the morning on an empty stomach, commonly referred to as Jerra Water in India, has so many health benefits.
The flavor- it’s nutty and earthy! It’s so good in Chili Con Carne and I also use it in my Goulash for the Gang recipe.
It's a warming digestive aid and a main ingredient in a multi-spice tea I use almost daily (more on that in a future post).
Fun Fact: Ancient Greeks kept cumin in shakers on the table, similar to the way black pepper is used today.
Potential BENEFITS of CUMIN
loaded with vitamins, antioxidants, minerals, and phytonutrients. Cumin seeds are excellent sources of iron, copper, potassium, manganese, selenium, zinc, and magnesium, as well as B-complex vitamins and vitamins E, A, and C.
boosts metabolism and aids in digestion.
decreases blood sugar.
it’s a carminative which means it helps with gas and bloating.
may lower cholesterol level, assists in the assimilation of fats into the body.
may help with anemia because of it's high iron content.
may help with hypertension
may help with dysmenorrhea
Consuming a cup of Cumin tea in the morning on an empty stomach may decrease hunger and increase metabolism. A great way to start the day if you are trying to break-fast a little later in the morning or lose weight!
To make the tea:
1. Add 1 tsp of cumin seeds to 2 cups of water.
2. Bring it to a boil and then turn the heat down and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Drink it hot or room temperature. I like to squeeze a little lemon into it for a fresh, bright flavor in the morning and to make it even more hydrating- not to mention a little extra vitamin C is a good thing.
Jeera water may jump-start your metabolism and help balance blood sugar, in addition to boosting your hydration.
Anecdotally, people drink jeera water twice per day on an empty stomach for best results.
FYI- I use the words "potential" and “may” a lot in my writing because everyone is different and will be affected differently. We must never forget that spices and herbs are powerful medicine and on that note…
RISKS & SIDE EFFECTS
Always consult with your doctor before embarking on a new herbal supplement routine. Make sure to follow the dosing instructions on any commercial cumin products that you buy.
People on anticoagulant drugs should avoid supplementing with Cumin.
Researchers have found evidence that cumin suppresses testosterone levels, which means it could make men less fertile if they’re taking it. Cumin has been used by some cultures as a substance to trigger miscarriage, so women that are pregnant or trying to become pregnant should keep that in mind. Women that are nursing should avoid cumin tea.
AYURVEDICALLY SPEAKING
Like increases like, and opposites balance.
Ayurveda views food and substances in terms of qualities- is it heating or cooling, is it oily or dry, is it heavy or light and so on- there are 10 pairs of opposing attributes that Ayurveda has identified as being most useful as medicine. Working with and be observant of these qualities helps us to stay balanced (healthy), the way nature intended.
The main quality or attribute of cumin, referred to as a guna in Ayurveda, is that it is heating and because of that I tend to use it more in the winter and spring. Heating spices may aggravate pitta dosha. (Learn more about Dosha HERE)
Ayurveda recognizes 6 tastes by which all the foods can be categorized. Cumin is bitter and pungent. Learn more about the six tastes (rasa) in an upcoming post.
Thank you for reading my post about one of my favorite spices. I am not kidding when I say that I use it almost every day - especially in the winter months. It's part of my go to tea!
Feel free to comment or leave a question? Have a great rest of your day!