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Cumin is a wonderful spice that not only makes your food taste better but can also help strengthen your immune system. It comes from the dried seeds of the cumin plant and can be found in whole seed form or as a ground powder. Cumin is renowned for its warm and earthy flavor, which makes it a favorite in many cuisines.
Here are the benefits of cumin in simple words:
- Digestive Issues – If you are dealing with stomach problems such as bloating, digestive discomfort or mild pain, a simple remedy is to take a teaspoon of cumin seeds, soak them in a glass of water overnight and drink this mixture in the morning on an empty stomach. Additionally, chewing cumin seeds may provide relief and aid digestion. To maintain good digestive health throughout the day, add two tablespoons of cumin seeds to your room temperature water bottle and drink it as needed. This simple practice can help reduce stomach discomfort and promote smooth digestion.
- Weight Management – Cumin can help in weight loss by making your body burn calories faster. When cumin improves your metabolism, it means your body can more efficiently use energy from the food you eat, which can help you lose weight.
- Antioxidant Properties – Cumin contains natural preservatives that protect your body from harmful substances called ‘free radicals’. These free radicals can cause damage and have a negative effect on your health. The antioxidants present in cumin act as a protector, neutralizing these free radicals and contributing to your overall well-being.
- Reduce bad Cholesterol level – Cumin may reduce “bad” cholesterol by helping your body process fat more efficiently and possibly reducing cholesterol absorption in your gut. However, it is not a one-stop solution; A balanced diet, exercise, and talking to your doctor are also important for managing cholesterol and a healthy heart. A study in overweight or obese women found that eating 3 grams of cumin powder every day reduced total cholesterol, ‘bad’ cholesterol and triglycerides in their blood. Additionally, people who consumed appropriate amounts of cumin powder in a disciplined manner had increased levels of “good” cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein or HDL cholesterol) in their blood.
- Potential Anti-Inflammatory Effects – Cumin, a common spice, may help reduce inflammation, especially for issues like arthritis. While it can be a healthy addition to your diet through recipes or teas, it is not a substitute for medical care for chronic inflammation. For ongoing issues, consult a health care professional for guidance.
Use of Cumin in Cooking
Add to dishes – Sprinkle ground cumin into your soups, stews and sauces.
Use in oil – Heat cumin seeds in oil to flavor curries and rice.
Give vegetables a boost – Spice up roasted vegetables with cumin.
Mix with cereals – Add cumin seeds to rice or cereals for delicious taste.
Marinade – Mix cumin with spices, oil and lemon for a delicious marinade.
Cumin, the spice that adds so much to your cooking. It’s used all over the world because it’s versatile, has a long history and may even be good for your health. So, whether you’re cooking a favorite recipe or trying something new, cumin is your flavor friend.
