6 Health Benefits of Carom Seeds, Ajwain

Carom seeds is an important dry herb when you think of Indian cuisine. Though it doesn’t hold a place in ‘masala dabba’ of most houses, every Indian housewife would include it in her pantry. Ajwain water has always been the best home remedy for stomachache and indigestion. Yes, that’s what ajwain is associated with. So what is ajwain?

Missi Roti, Rajasthani Missi Roti

Ajwain is a common name for tiny, erect, oval shaped, seed which has a very strong aroma. It is fruit of a plant which belong to the Apiaceae family. It is mostly sold as whole seeds, as that is the most common form in which it is used in Indian cooking. When buying, choose seeds that look crisp and fresh, and have a strong aroma. Store them in a cool dry place so that they maintain their colour and aroma. Read how Carom Seeds are used in Indian Cooking.

Other names of Carom Seeds

• Hindi – Ajwain
• Marathi – Ova
• Gujarati – Ajmo
• Tamil – Omum
• Telugu – Vamu
• Begali – Jowan

Look into the health benefits of carom seeds.

6 Health Benefits of Carom Seeds

1. Acts as a Digestive Aid – As mentioned earlier, carom seeds are good for digestion. The best way to consume them is as a mouth freshener after meals. Roast them and chew on a teaspoon to enhance digestion. Its active compound thymol helps in the secretion of digestive juices in the stomach which prevents indigestion. To overcome stomach pain, acidity, bloating and flatulence ajwain is a very good remedy. The most important thing is to chew the ajwain seeds well so as to benefit from its compounds. Alternatively sip on Ajwain Water. Learn How to make Ajwain Water with 7 step by step images.

Ajwain Water

2. Combats Infection – The same active compound thymol along with carvacrol helps to inhibit bacterial growth. Ajwain water is thus a beneficial remedy to treat various bacteria including E. coli which is often the cause of food poisoning and stomach ache.

3. Relieves Cold and Cough – A few crushed carom seeds along with little grated jaggery when combined and chewed on at least 2 to 3 times a day are known to cure cold and cough. A tablespoon of seeds crushed and tied up in a cloth bundle can be used for inhalation, during nasal congestion. It has a remarkable power to open up the clogged and congested nasal passage. See other Home Remedies for Common Cold.

4. May Aid Weight Loss – Ajwain water is also known to help boost metabolism and aid in weight loss. The best time to drink Ajwain water is on an empty stomach first thing in the morning. Along with this simple drink, also tweak your cooking habits and go completely healthy to achieve your weight loss target. Check out Weight Loss recipes.

5. May Help Manage High Blood Pressure – Some research shows that thymol in carom seeds can help to manage hypertension. While more research is yet to be done in this direction, including ajwain in the form of Ajwain Roti will not prove to be harmful for those suffering from high BP. This roti is devoid of refined maida and made with whole wheat flour. Only remember to control the amount of salt added in the dough and the amount of oil used for cooking them. Also read other foods that are beneficial for high Blood Pressure.

Ajwaini Roti

6. May prove effective in treating arthritis – Ajwain seeds have been proven to exhibit anti-inflammatory effect too thus helping to relieve arthritic pain. While you can consume ajwain by chewing on it, the most effective therapy is ajwain oil massaged over the affected area.

Common FAQ’s related to Carom Seeds, Ajwain

Q. Does ajwain help to cure all types of stomach ailments?

A. While small quantity of carom seeds give relief from stomach problems, excess of ajwain may worsen existing stomach ulcers. Thus it is advisable to consult your doctor before using ajwain in huge quantities, especially if you have any complicated stomach disorder.

Q. Can ajwain be consumed by pregnant women?

A. Pregnant women are also advised to consult their doctor before consuming carom seeds in any form. ­

Q. Can carom seeds be consumed by elderly people?

Yes, carom seeds will aid in digestion for elderly people. However try with a small quantity and if it leads to diarrhea, consult your doctor.

Q. When is the best time to have Ajwain Water for Weight Loss?

A. The best time to drink Ajwain water is on an empty stomach first thing in the morning. Followed by this drink try and avoid eating anything for the next half an hour. Let the herb work its magic wand.

Q. Should Ajwain Water be had warm of cold?

A. Warm Ajwain Water is the best option, but you can have it cool if you wish to.

Q. Does Carom seeds also help in relieving menstrual cramps?

A. Substantial reports in this field are yet awaited. The research is yet ongoing.