Cumin was Believed to be a Gift of Faithfulness - More Interesting Facts Inside

Cumin or Jeera the second most popular spice is an ancient herb. The seeds of this plant are used to add a very special flavor to Indian dishes. This spice has a rich heritage that dates back to 1^st century BC and it was used extensively for medicinal, cooking and preserving purposes.  Jeera is an inseparable part of Indian Culinary Culture and the addition of this spice to dishes is believed to have various health benefits.  

Interesting facts about Cumin: 

• This common spice, which is present in every Indian kitchen has a very rich heritage that dates back to the 1^stcentury BC. It was even used in the process of mummification as a preservative and was believed to be pious.  

• In the medieval period it was believed that the chickens and lovers would not run away as long as there is plenty of Cumin at home.

• According to ancient folklore it was believed to be a gift of faithfulness and retention and even used to pay taxes!

Proven Health benefits of Cumin: 

There is reason that the spices are so extensively used in India i.e. the numerous health benefits. Most of the cumin’s claimed benefits include digestion, immune system and circulation. 

Helps In digestion: the most commonly known benefit of Jeera is for indigestion. It helps to increase the activity of digestive enzymes, potentially speeding up digestion. It also helps release the bile juice from liver which helps to digest fats and certain nutrients in the gut. 

Rich in Iron: Cumin seeds are naturally rich in Iron. Only very few foods are as iron dense as cumin. This makes it a good iron source, even when used in sparse amounts.  

Rich in Antioxidants: Cumin contains a lot of plant compounds that are linked with potential health benefits, including terpenes, phenols, flavonoids and Alkanoids. Several of these function as antioxidants, which are chemicals that reduce damage to your body from free radicals. Free radicals are lone electrons that cause inflammation and damage DNA. Cumin contains antioxidants that stabilize free radicals. 

Treats Hemorrhoids: Cumin is rich in Dietary fiber, Exhibits carminative, anti fungal and anti microbial properties. The essential oils in Cumin Help in curing infections or wounds in the excretory system and relieves hemorrhoids. 

Fights Cancer: Cumin possesses detoxifying and chemo-preventive properties. A compound cumin aldehyde aids retard the growth of tumors. 

Treats Insomnia: The essential oils in cumin have tranquilizing and hypnotic effects which help to ease stress and anxiety which commonly causes Insomnia. 

Relieves Asthma and Cold: Cumin seeds have various anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties. These properties help a lot in treating cold and asthma.