Cumin seeds are powerful antioxidants, contain various anti-cancerous properties, and also help in the reduction of inflammation. Regular consumption of these seeds controls sugar and cholesterol levels and also aids weight loss. Among the various world cuisines, it is used extensively in Indian and Mexican cooking.
Cumin is a herb. The seeds of the plant are used to make medicine. Cumin can be used for digestion problems including diarrhea, colic, bowel spasms, and gas. Cumin is also used to increase urine flow to relieve bloating (as a diuretic); to start menstruation, and to increase sexual desire (as an aphrodisiac).
Cumin as a spice increases antioxidant intake promotes digestion, provides iron, may improve blood sugar control, and may reduce food-borne illnesses.
Cumin seeds have eight ridges with oil canals. They resemble caraway seeds, being oblong in shape, longitudinally ridged, and yellow-brown in colour, like other members of the family Apiaceae (Umbelliferae) such as caraway, parsley, and dill.