Jeera or Cumin Seeds

Cumin is a flowering plant in the family Apiaceae, native from the east Mediterranean to Sub-continent. Its seeds are used in the cuisines of many different cultures, in both whole and ground form.

There are two main types of cumin:

-         White cumin seeds, the most common type.

-         Black cumin seeds that are popular in Iran. The seeds of black cumin are smaller and have a sweeter aroma than the white seeds. There are sometimes confused with nigella, another seed that is used in Indian cookery.

The English "cumin" is derived from the Old English, from Latin cuminum, which is the Latinisation of the Greek κύμινον (kyminon),cognate with Hebrewכמון (kammon) and Arabic كمون (kammūn). The earliest attested form of the word in Greek is the Mycenaean, ku-mi-no, written in Linear B syllabic script. Forms of this word are attested in several ancient Semitic languages, including kamūnu in Akkadian. The ultimate source is thought to be the Sumerian word gamun.

Cumin has been in use since ancient times. Seeds excavated at the Syrian site Tell ed-Der have been dated to the second millennium BC. They have also been reported from several New Kingdom levels of ancient Egyptian archaeological sites. In the ancient Egyptian civilization, cumin was used as spice and as preservative in mummification.

The main producer and consumer of cumin is India. It produces 70% of the world supply and consumes 90% of that (which means that India consumes 63% of the world's cumin). Other producers are Syria (7%), Iran (6%), and Turkey (6%). The remaining 11% comes from other countries.

Cumin is a drought-tolerant, tropical, or subtropical crop. It has a growth season of 100 – 120 days. The optimum growth temperature ranges are between 25 and 30° C. The Mediterranean climate is most suitable for its growth. Cultivation of cumin requires a

long, hot summer of three to four months. At low temperatures, leaf colour changes from green to purple. High temperature might reduce growth period and induce early ripening. In India, cumin is sown from October until the beginning of December, and harvesting starts in February. In Syria and Iran, cumin is sown from mid-November until mid-December (extensions up to mid-January are possible) and harvested in June/July.

Cumin seed is used as a spice for its distinctive flavour and aroma. It is globally popular and an essential flavouring in many cuisines, particularly South Asian (where it is called jeera[citation needed]), Northern African, and Latin American cuisines. Cumin can be found in some cheeses, such as Leyden cheese, and in some traditional breads from France. It is commonly used in traditional Brazilian cuisine. Cumin can be an ingredient in chili powder (often Tex-Mex or Mexican-style), and is found in achiote blends, adobos, sofrito, garam masala, curry powder, and bahaarat. In Myanmar, cumin is known as " ဇီရာ" ( zi yar ) and used as a spice. In South Asian cooking, it is often combined with coriander seeds in a powdered mixture called dhana jeera.

In Sanskrit, cumin is known as jira “that which helps digestion" and is called zira in Persian. In the Ayurvedic system, dried cumin seeds are used for medicinal purposes. These seeds are powdered and used in different forms like kashaya (decoction), arishta (fermented decoction), vati (tablet/pills), and processed with ghee (a semifluid clarified butter). It is used internally and sometimes for external applications also.

In southern India, popular drinks such as Kerala and Tamil Nadu are called jira water, which is made by boiling cumin seeds. It is believed that cumin is beneficial for heart disease, swellings, tastelessness, vomiting, poor digestion and chronic fever.[unreliable medical source?] Cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.) has been reported to have antiglycative effects in vitro and in vivo. Especially such its components as the cuminoids.

Nutritional value per 100 g

Energy                                   1,567 kJ (375 kcal)

Carbohydrates                    44.24 g

Sugars                                   2.25 g

Dietary fibre                                    10.5 g

Fat                                          22.27 g

Saturated                             1.535 g

Monounsaturated             14.04 g

Polyunsaturated                 3.279 g

Protein                                  17.81 g

Vitamins

Vitamin A equiv.

beta-carotene                     (8%) 64 μg               (7%) 762 μg

Vitamin A                              1270 IU

Thiamine (B1)                      (55%)                                     0.628 mg

Riboflavin (B2)                    (27%)                         0.327 mg

Niacin (B3)                           (31%)                         4.579 mg

Vitamin B6                           33%)              0.435 mg

Folate (B9)                           (3%)               10 μg

Vitamin B12                         (0%)               0 μg

Choline                                  (5%)               24.7 mg

Vitamin C                              (9%)               7.7 mg

Vitamin D                             (0%)               0 μg

Vitamin D                             (0%)               0 IU

Vitamin E                              (22%)                         3.33 mg

Vitamin K                              (5%)               5.4 μg

Minerals

Calcium                                 (93%)                         931 mg

Iron                                        (510%)          66.36 mg

Magnesium                          (262%)          931 mg

Manganese                          (159%)          3.333 mg

Phosphorus                         (71%)                         499 mg

Potassium                             (38%)                         1788 mg

Sodium                                  (11%)                         168 mg

Zinc                                        (51%)                         4.8 mg

Other constituents

Water                                                8.06 g

10 reasons jeera or cumin seeds are great for your health

Jeera has many health benefits - from aiding digestion to helping you sleep.

eera or cumin seeds– the quintessential Indian spice is an addition to a number of dishes; be it  dal or as tempering for a dish. But did you know that originally Indians added this spice to their dish, not only for its wonderful flavour and aroma, but also for the number of health benefits it has. This spice can help improve digestion, beat insomnia and even help with your sex life. So, here are 10 ways jeera adds to the healthy quotient of your daily meal.

Benefit 1: Improves digestion

The presence of thymol and other essential oils in cumin seeds stimulate the salivary glands thereby helping in the digestion of  food. Apart from this, it strengthens a sluggish digestive system. Hence, if you do suffer from indigestion try drinking some jeera tea. Apart from that this jeera-banana combo can help you lose weight too.

Tip: Add a teaspoon of cumin seeds to a glass of water and bring it to a boil. Once the water turns brown, turn off the gas and cover the vessel. Allow the decoction to cool down to room temperature. Drink this tea three times a day to improve digestion and to help resolve minor stomach aches. If you want the tea to be a little mild, you can add some cumin seeds to a glass of boiling hot water and cover it. Let it steep and then decant the water.

Benefit 2: Beats constipation

Due to its high fibre content, jeera boosts the activity of the gastrointestinal tract which in turn stimulates enzyme secretion. This is why jeera powder is commonly  used as a  natural laxative. In fact, its laxative properties are so powerful that Ayurveda practitioners believe that it is capable of preventing and healing severe digestive disorders like piles.

Tip: To get relief from constipation, roast jeera seeds on a tawa till they turn deep brown. Now, cool them and grind them into a fine powder. Mix this powder with water or honey and consume it on an empty stomach. Another good remedy is to have some freshly prepared jeera tea.

Benefit 3: Fights cancer

According to the studies conducted by the Cancer Research Laboratory of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, USA, jeera can help in the fight against cancer. This is because it contains an active compound, known as cuminaldehyde that helps in retarding the growth of tumours. However, this  anti-cancer property was confined to kala jeera.

Tip: Don’t forget to add a pinch of jeera to your dal as seasoning or sprinkle few seeds over a gravy to reap its benefits.

Benefit 4: Regulates blood pressure and heart rate

Being high in potassium — a mineral that helps maintain the electrolyte balance in the body — this seed is an elixir for heart patients. This mineral not only helps in the regulation cell production but also helps maintain your blood pressure and heart rate. Because of its regulatory properties, jeera helps patients who have heart disease and helps prevent it as well.

Tip: You can drink a glass of jeera water early in the morning (on an empty stomach) to control your blood pressure levels.

Benefit 5: Relieves asthma and cold

The potent anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties of cumin seed, makes it a great home remedy for cold and asthma. These compounds soothe inflamed muscles and boost your immunity to fight the infection.

Tip: For relief from a cold, boil some jeera seeds (about one tablespoon) in two cups of water and add a small piece of crushed ginger to the water. Once it starts to boil, strain it and sip on this tea as often as possible. This will not only help relieve a cold but also soothe a sore throat thereby making you feel much better.

Benefit 6: Helps prevent anaemia

Did you know that 100 grams of jeera contains 11.7 milligrams of iron? Iron is the

main component in the production of haemoglobin – a substance that carries and transports oxygen throughout our body. This is why jeera is the most natural and effective supplement for people suffering from anaemia.

Tip: It is also advisable for women to consume jeera on a regular basis to keep the disease at bay. You could just include it in your everyday meals like in roti, rice, curries, etc. Here are 5 foods you should avoid if you have anemia.

Benefit 7: Improves sexual health

Yes, it’s true. The humble seed can up your sexual quotient. Packed with zinc and

potassium, jeera is an all-rounder when it comes to improving your performance in the bedroom. Zinc is important for sperm production and potassium maintains a healthy heart rate and blood pressure, This spice also helps deal with fertility issues and prevent conditions like ED (erectile dysfunction), PE (premature ejaculation), low sperm count and low virility of your sperm.

Tip: Drink jeera tea on a regular basis on an empty stomach and watch things steam up between the sheets, naturally!

Benefit 8: Great for pregnant mothers

As a seed, it acts as a wonder spice for mothers-to-be and new mothers. Its properties

of relieving constipation and improving digestion greatly help pregnant women deal with pregnancy symptoms like nausea and constipation. Along with aiding in better delivery, this spice enhances lactation. Also, the high amount of iron and calcium content in the seed increases milk production without any side effects.

Tip: Pregnant mothers should mix jeera powder in milk and honey and have this twice a day.

Benefit 9: Helps to deal with insomnia

Can’t sleep? Maybe jeera can help. The tiny cumin seed might just do the trick for you. Jeera contains a high amount of melatonin, which when consumed with bananas increases the production of chemicals within the brain. This concoction helps beat insomnia and gives you a good night’s sleep.

Tip: To sleep well mix some freshly ground jeera powder with the pulp of a ripe banana. Eat this every night. This not only helps insomniacs naturally it is not addictive in nature like synthetic drugs.

Benefit 10: Enhances memory

Packed with minerals like riboflavin, zeaxanthin, vitamin B6, niacin and many more, jeera is well known for its ability to maintain and restore memory and mental health. In Ayurveda, it is often used to treat patients suffering from amnesia. While home remedies are something we all rely on in our everyday life, it is essential that you go to a trained physician if your symptoms persist or get worse.

Tip: To sharpen your memory, chew on a few roasted seeds every day.

How to Prepare Cumin Tea

Though cumin traces back its origin back to Egypt, it is widely used by the Indians. Cumin treats sore throats, colds, arthritis, and also aids in digestion. Cumin is even known as the natural detoxifier. The benefits of cumin can be enjoyed by simply making a cup of cumin tea in the comfort of your own house.

Ingredients

1 teaspoon cumin seeds

250 ml drinking water

Steps

Take a vessel and add 1 teaspoon cumin seeds to it.

Heat it a little on low flame for about 5 seconds.

Pour 250 ml drinking water into it and let it boil.

After boiling, let it be covered and untouched for about 5 minutes.

Strain it into your teacup and enjoy it warm.

According to your taste you can add honey or a pinch of salt into it.

Jaljeera Drink Recipe / Jal-Jeera Recipe

Ingredients :

Coriander Leaves - 1 cup

Mint Leaves - 1 cup

Sugar - 1/2 cup

Chat Masala Powder - 1.5 tsp

Cumin Powder - 1.5 tsp

Tamarind - 1 small lemon size

Lemon Juice - 3 tblspn

Salt - 1 tsp

Ginger - 3 cm piece peeled and chopped

Cold Water as needed

Icecubes as needed

Method:

Take all the ingredient in a blender and make it into a fine paste add little water to it.

Strain this through a sieve. This is the syrup. you can store this in a fridge for a week.

You now add more water to it and mix well.

Mix and serve cold.

Notes:

1)The syrup can be store for a week in fridge. If you want to store for longer, you can freeze them in ice cube trays and use as needed.

Three Seed Tea

Also called “Cumin, Coriander & Fennel Tea” since that’s exactly what it is made of!

You can easily make it yourself, and it’s great for all constitutions

Three Seed Tea

This classic blend of three spices is ideal for all constitutional types (vata, pitta, and kapha). It is especially effective for pitta digestive issues such as acid indigestion and heartburn, and it’s a great antidote for hot, spicy foods.

The tea is made with equal proportions of cumin, coriander and fennel seeds, all of which are in the Umbelliferae family, which is noted for having a calming, balancing effect on the digestive system.

An easy way to make this tea is to mix a batch of the seeds, store them in a jar, and use a tea ball when you wish to make a cup. You may wish to lightly grind the seeds in a food grinder before use for enhanced flavor and strength.

Directions: Use one teaspoon of seeds per cup. Add hot water and allow to steep for 10 minutes, then strain and drink. Best to drink after meals.

Alternately, place 3 teaspoons of the whole seed mixture in a pan along with 3 cups of water (1 teaspoon of seeds for each cup of water).  Bring to a boil, boil for 1 to 5 minutes, then strain and drink (the longer you boil the stronger it will be).

Enjoy, and happy digesting!

Turmeric & Cumin Rescue Tea

Pharmacological Effects

The list of actions below have not be approved by the FDA and should not be used to treat a medical condition.

Burns-Toxins            Spleen-Tonic            Skin-Tonic

Alterative      Decongestant          Detoxicant

Hypolipidemic         Digestive       Galactagogue

Emmenogogue       Blood-Thinner.

Ayurvedic perspective

As your body enters a natural cleanse cycle, the last two weeks of February may be critical for your health. The heavy snowfall & dampness characteristic of February is a sure sign that spring is approaching. Winter fat starts to melt, clogging your circulatory system, and making blood rich and oily. Without proper diet and herbal support, symptoms like a runny nose, watery eyes, dark circles, sneezing, coughing, itchy nose/eyes, asthma, and headaches run rampant. As dampness builds, you'll suffer from other ailments as well, like sore throats, puffiness in your skin, and heaviness in your chest. These are all important warning signs that your body's natural detox cycle is causing a buildup of congestion in your body. Take caution, as this is a peak season for serious ailments like congestive heart failure and heart attacks.

Purchase Turmeric & Cumin Rescue Tea from the Store!Sip Turmeric & Cumin Rescue Tea to ease February ailments. Cumin's warmth and rustic dryness soaks up the excess of spring moisture. It's pungency dilates blood vessels, helping blood flow smoothly through your veins and restoring your skin's healthy glow. Turmeric invigorates your blood and gets it moving again, dispelling winter stagnation. Turmeric helps to directly thin the blood, digest proteins, and metabolize fats efficiently. Together, these spices provide some relief from the imbalances of winter and the coming spring.

Clean Your Blood

Turmeric's powerful health effects are more beneficial in the spring than any other time

of year. You may have heard turmeric toted as a cure-all herb: it's antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-toxicity, anti-diabetic, antioxidant, anti-cancer, and anti-Alzheimer. Turmeric is "anti" all things! Many of its contributions to your health are due to it's powerful liver and blood-cleansing ability. As your body naturally thickens your blood in the springtime, turmeric keeps it thins and light, helps to neutralize blood sugar, and destroys toxicity. It aids in digestive and respiratory conditions which run rampant in spring. In fact, turmeric acts as an antibacterial while restoring intestinal flora for excellent digestion.

With thick, heavy blood clogging your circulation in springtime, it's common to lose your appetite and feel sluggish. Cumin is an excellent digestive & stomach aid to restore your appetite. Its pungent warmth dries excess fluid from your circulation so that your limbs feel light and mind clear.

Fix Spring Allergies in Winter

If you already have allergies in the spring, it's too late; you missed the detox window. That's why blood detoxifying teas like Turmeric Cumin Rescue Tea are so important to incorporate while it's still winter. By improving fat metabolism and keeping your blood light, thin, and mobile, you set the stage for a healthy spring.

Turmeric Cumin Tea by Constitution

Thanks to its ability to calm stress, turmeric is a cleansing herb that in mild doses doesn't disturb vata. Cumin is also supportive of deficient vata dosha. Hot pitta constitutions, however, will benefit from using fresh turmeric instead of dried while making this recipe (dried is just too hot for pitta). Turmeric Cumin Rescue Tea is fully beneficial for heavy kapha dosha, who tends to suffer the most in springtime from congestion and stagnation.

Weights & measures

ingredients

1/4 tsp           Cumin            Vata pacifying         Pitta aggravating    Kapha pacifying

1/4 tsp           Turmeric       Vata pacifying         Pitta aggravating    Kapha pacifying

preparation

For best results, grind whole cumin seed in coffee grinder or mortar and pestle. Place spices in tea cup. Pour 1/2c boiling water over spices and let steep, covered, for thirty seconds. Fill remainder of cup with room temperature water, or until liquid is cool enough to drink.

Alternate Preparation:

Grind whole cumin seeds with mortar and pestle or coffee grinder as above. Instead of turmeric powder, use 1 inch of fresh turmeric root. Chop finely. Place in a pot of 12oz water and bring to a boil. Allow to boil for 10 minutes, until the liquid becomes a vibrant orange. Turn off the heat, add ground cumin seeds, cover and let steep for 2 minutes. Fresh turmeric has a lighter, more fresh taste while ground turmeric is more pungent. Enjoy!