Potent in flavor, cumin adds a savory spice to dishes while offering bountiful health benefits. A seed grown in China, India, the Middle East and Mediterranean countries, Cumin has been used since ancient time in many types of cuisine across the globe and to treat many illnesses. Due to its high content of phenols, flavanoids and other active components, the popular spice has been used in treatment of a wide variety of ailments. (Source)
Cumin for Inflammation
Cumin has been noted in research for its anti-inflammatory effects. One study investigated the inhibitory effects of cumin extract on lipoxygenase, a group of enzymes responsible for inflammation. The extract, in the form of cuminaldehyde, was found to inhibit the lipoxygenase, which shows cumin’s potential as an anti-inflammatory. (Source)
Cumin for Weight Loss and Metabolism
Research has found cumin to have a significant effect on metabolism and weight loss, as was discovered in one study. In the study, cumin consumption was investigated for its weight-loss and metabolism effects in overweight individuals, and it was found that cumin consumption resulted in significant weight loss and reduction in insulin levels. (Source) Another study found cumin consumption to reduce serum fasting cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL levels while increasing HDL levels in overweight and obese women. Cumin consumption was also found to decrease BMI, waist circumference, fat mass and weight. (Source)
Cumin for Digestive Health
Cumin has long been used in traditional medicine as a treatment for digestive ailments. One study investigated the anti-diarrheal effects of cumin seed on rats, and found the seed to significantly reduce the instance of diarrhea. (Source)
Cumin for Cholesterol Management
Due to their high content of flavanoids, which offer much antioxidant activity, cumin can improve cholesterol levels. One study investigated the effects of cumin extract on LDL levels, total cholesterol, triglycerides and other lipid levels in patients with hypercholesterolemia. The cumin extract was found to significantly reduce LDL levels in the patients while increasing paraoxonase and arylesterase activity. (Source)
Cumin for Reproductive Health
Cumin has also been found to aid in certain aspects of reproductive health. One study found cumin extract to exhibit spermicidal effects in rats, indicating cumin’s potential role in male contraception. (Source)
Cumin for Mental Health
Due to cumin’s highly antioxidative activity, it can also have positive effects on mental health. One study found cumin extract to boost memory and reduce stress in rats. (Source)
Cumin for Cancer Treatment
The antioxidative properties of cumin also have chemopreventive implications, according to research. One study found cumin-based diets to significantly reduce instances of stomach tumors and cervical carcinomas in rats. (Source)
NUTRITIONAL PROFILE
Cumin, 1 Tbsp (6g)
Calories: 22
Fat: 0g
Total Carbohydrate: 3g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Protein: 1g
Vitamin A: 2% Daily Value
Thiamin: 3%
Calcium: 6%
Iron: 22%
Magnesium: 5%
Phosphorous: 3%
Potassium: 3%
Copper: 3%
Manganese: 10%