Table of Contents
What is Jeera?
Cumin or Jeera is often confused with caraway (Carum carvi), a parsley-related herb. On the other hand, cumin has a spicier flavor, is lighter in color, and is larger. It is a member of the Apiaceae family of plants (Parsley or Carrot family). It is one of the most widely used spices on the planet. Its fruits (often referred to as seeds) are being used as a seasoning. It is indigenous to Western Asia, where it has been cultivated since antiquity.
India, Iran, Indonesia, China, and the South Mediterranean are the primary producers now. It is usually harvested when it reaches a height of 30–50 cm (12–20 in). It’s an annual herbaceous plant with a 20–30 cm (8–12 in) long slender, glabrous, branching stem. The stem is grey or dark green. Small white or pink flowers are borne in umbels. The fruit is 4 to 5 millimeters (16–15 inches).
It, also known as jeera, has a distinctive scent that can be easily altered by frying or dry toasting. It is a widely used spice in both the north and south of India. Fruits are used intact, especially in the north, and are sautéed (sometimes with onion) or toasted before being used. It is also used in the marinades that prepare meats for quick yet intense broiling in the tandoor, a clay oven used in North-West India. Because ground cumin burns quickly, it can’t be toasted; however, toasted cumin could be ground and used as a seasoning.
Jeera Nutrition Fact
Cumin seeds are high in iron, copper, calcium, potassium, manganese, selenium, zinc, and magnesium, among other minerals. Vitamins B-complex including thiamine, vitamin B-6, niacin, riboflavin, and other important antioxidant vitamins like vitamin E, vitamin A, and vitamin C are also abundant in jeera or cumin seeds.
Numerous flavonoids and polyphenol antioxidants, such as carotenes, zeaxanthin, and lutein, are abundant in the seeds. On fungal growth, jeera oil has a considerable inhibitory impact. The essential oil is a preservative to protect pharmaceuticals, health, and food goods from toxigenic fungal infections.
Nutritional Components | Values [per 5gm] |
Calories | 22kcal |
Fat | 2% |
Sodium | – |
Carbohydrates | 2.7g[1%] |
Dietary fiber | 0.6g |
Protein | 1.1g[2%] |
Uses of Jeera
Cumin seed is a popular Indian spice that adds flavor to cuisine and offers several health advantages. Many regional spice blends use it, including Baharat (Middle East), Garam masala and Panch phoran (India), and Ras el hanout (North Africa) (Morocco).
When ground cumin is combined with honey and pepper, it is thought to have aphrodisiac properties. This combination is trendy in the Middle East. It is an essential ingredient in curries, stews, soups, and other dishes. Cumin essential oil is derived from cumin seeds and can be used as a smell in cosmetics such as lotions, scents, and massages.
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12 Benefits of Jeera Water
1. Improves Digestion :- Jeera is one of the most gut-friendly herbs, as it promotes the production of pancreatic enzymes, which aid digestion. These seeds are high in thymol and essential oils, which stimulate the salivary gland and help digestion. To improve digestion and reduce flatulence, individuals with a poor digestive system can drink jeera water first thing in the morning on an empty stomach.
It is also a carminative, meaning it soothes flatulence and hence aids digestion and appetite. When consumed with hot water, the essential oils, magnesium, and sodium content assist in relief from stomach pain.
2. Pacify Haemorrhoids:- It is high in dietary fiber and has anti-fungal, anti-microbial, and carminative effects. Its essential oils, cumin aldehyde, and pyrazines work as a natural laxative, aids in treating infections and sores in the excretory system, and relieving hemorrhoids.
3. Reduces the Risk of Cancer:- The anti-carcinogenic capabilities of jeera water are well-known. It lowers the risk of a wide range of malignancies. It also stops cancer from spreading to other parts of the body, which is known as metastasis. It has chemopreventive and detoxifying effects. Cumin aldehyde, the main component found in cumin, helps to slow tumor growth.
4. Helpful in Insomnia:- Cumin essential oils offer hypnotic and tranquilizer properties, which help relieve tension and anxiety, which are typical causes of insomnia. Jeera also includes melatonin, a sleep-regulatory hormone, and multiple levels of iron and magnesium, all of which are necessary for regulating brain activity and inducing sleep.
5. Asthma and cold relief:- These seeds have potent anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anti-fungal qualities, making them an excellent cure for bronchitis and colds. It works as an expectorant, loosening up phlegm and mucus in the respiratory tracts and making them simpler to expel. The essential oil acts as a disinfectant and aids in the prevention of illnesses and increasing immunity.
6. Improved Memory:- It contains various minerals and vitamins, including riboflavin, vitamin B6, zeaxanthin, and niacin, which help the brain work properly. It helps to improve psychological health and memory by replenishing brain cells.
7. Reduces Acne and Soothes the Skin: It has anti-inflammatory qualities and can immediately relieve allergies and stings. It calms the skin and helps to manage any inflammation brought on by allergies. Cumin’s antibacterial characteristics help to eliminate microorganisms on the skin and heal acne. Washing your face with cumin water several times throughout the day will help prevent skin problems. It is abundant in potassium, calcium, selenium, copper, and manganese, which aid in skin rejuvenation.
8. Aids in the treatment of Anemia: Iron is abundant in cumin seeds. Iron is necessary for the synthesis of hemoglobin in the blood, which is needed for the transfer of oxygen throughout the body. Consuming jeera water on a regular basis can help to minimize and alleviate anemia complications.
9. Holds potential for good Hair Health:– Jeera water is very beneficial to our hair. It reduces male pattern baldness and strengthens our hair. It also helps to prevent dermatitis and hair graying. Because of its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, consuming it can significantly improve the functioning of your scalp.
It contains protein and carbs, which promote hair development and restoration from the roots. As a result, hair loss is reduced. It also makes hair thicker and softer by reducing roughness, which is frequently caused by dampness. It also reduces roughness in the hair, which is commonly caused by moisture, making it straighter and smoother.
10. Good for Cardiac Health:- Jeera helps lower blood pressure, triglycerides, and cholesterol levels in our body. It protects our hearts from a variety of ailments like mild myocardial infarction and congestion. It has a natural antioxidant that protects the heart and treating a variety of heart problems. The risk of cardiac blocks, cardiac arrest, and blood clots is greatly reduced as a result.
11. Relieves Acridness:- Cumin seeds have gastro-protective properties. Acidity and related symptoms such as heartburn, discomfort, nausea, bloating, constipation, and others can be reduced and prevented by drinking jeera water.
12. Hyperglycemia and Blood Glucose Levels are Managed:– Having jeera water boosts the body’s natural secretion of insulin, which is beneficial for those with diabetes since it keeps blood sugar levels in check. It also lowers glycosylate levels in hemoglobin. Drinking it 30 minutes after each meal has been shown to help maintain blood sugar under control.
Jeera Water for Weight Loss
Jeera water boosts metabolic activity and stimulates fat burning, thus, giving you a slimmer appearance. The detox water is most effective at reducing stubborn belly fat. Due to the presence of bioactive chemicals, jeera seeds are a powerhouse of anti-inflammatory effects. Obesity has been demonstrated to be a pro-inflammatory condition in studies.
As a result, drinking jeera water can help reduce the emergence of obesity caused by inflammation. It aids in weight loss and has a good impact on the body’s fat profile by lowering harmful cholesterol in the blood.
How to make Jeera Water
There are two ways to manufacture it:
1. Simmering method: Bring water to a boil and add cumin seeds. Simmer for a few minutes or until the liquid has reduced to almost half. Close the container and set it aside. The cumin water is now ready to drink.
2. Soaking method: Soak cumin seeds overnight in boiling water. The next day, filter the water and consume it alone.
STEPS:-
1. Fill a saucepan halfway with water. Allow plenty of time for it to boil.
2. Put in some jeera[approx 1tbspn.]. You can also use a mortar pestle to crush the jeera and add it.
3. Give it a quick mix.
4. Bring to a boil and reduce by half.
5. The color shifts should be decreased to about half.
6. As you can see, the seeds release their flavor and color well.
7. At this point, turn off the flame.
8. Set aside for a few minutes by covering it.
9. Open after a few minutes.
10. Strain the seeds and throw them out, or you can chew them.
11. Enjoy it while it’s still warm.
12. You can add a pinch of black salt & 2drops of lemon juice for flavors.
Side Effects of Jeera Water
1. These seeds are thought to help eject more gas into the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in heartburn.
2. Its oil is highly volatile, and consuming large amounts of cumin seeds for an extended period might harm the liver and kidneys. It is suggested that you limit your consumption to moderate amounts.
3. It may also have an abortifacient [abortion causing]effect on pregnant women. Cumin seed consumption in large amounts might cause miscarriage or induce labor.
4. Eating in excess can cause nausea and sleepiness.
5. It should be avoided by breastfeeding women since it can cause milk supply to decrease. Although not everyone has this adverse effect, consuming too much cumin in your diet might harm your health.
Conclusion
Cumin is a flowering plant in the Apiaceae family native to the Middle East and extends east to India. Its seeds, each encased within a dried fruit, are used whole or crushed in the cuisines of many countries. It is widely used in many countries, including India. It constitutes many healthful properties like anti-oxidant, weight loss promotion, maintains digestion, decreases the risk of cancer, and many more.
Jeera water is prevalent in India as a detox water and weight loss drink. Along with health potential, it also has adverse consequences if consumed in a higher amount. So it is advised to consume it in moderation or as recommended by health experts like doctors, dietitians & nutritionists.
FAQ
1. Can we drink jeera water daily?
Yes, we can drink it daily early in the morning. It will keep us hydrated.
2. Who should not drink jeera water?
Pregnant, lactating women should avoid consuming it raw or in the form of jeera water, and also, individuals who are allergic to it should not drink jeera water.
3. Is cumin good for kidneys?
Yes, for a healthy being, jeera is good for the kidney. Still, an individual who has any kidney disorder should not include it in the diet as an unhealthy kidney won’t eliminate the salt present in jeera.
4. What is the best time to drink jeera water?
The best time to consume it is early in the morning with some light munchkin options like Makhana, quinoa puffs, etc.
5. What happens if you drink jeera water on an empty stomach?
Drinking jeera water on an empty stomach can increase metabolism, decrease constipation, and fat loss.
6. Is jeera water goods for periods?
Cumin seeds can aid in the initiation of periods and the relief of menstrual cramps. It’s one of the most efficient home treatments for menstrual irregularities.
7. How many times can we drink jeera water?
You can drink 80ml-100ml daily, and if you’re consuming more than 100 ml, like 250ml [ medium-sized glass], then three times a week.
