Dorothy FarrarCumin (cumin)
Cumin belongs to the umbelliferae family and was already used in ancient Egypt as a medicinal and spice plant . The main growing areas today include India, Iran and China. Cumin is a traditional spice, especially in Arabic cuisine. In folk medicine, it is used to treat diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. It is also said to stimulate kidney and liver function.
Here’s what you should know about cumin
Already in ancient Egypt and the Roman Empire, cumin was used as a spice and also as a medicinal plant. Today, cumin is an important spice, especially in Arabic, North African, Latin American and Greek cuisine. It is part of the Indian spice mixture “Grand Marsala”. Its taste is fresh and slightly spicy. The intense aroma is due to the essential oils it contains.
The plant only grows in warm climates and can reach a height of 30 centimeters. The plant is native to the African and Arabian Mediterranean region. Cumin is sown directly outdoors. The months of March and April as well as July and August are suitable for sowing. It is important that cumin is watered regularly.
Harvesting takes place in two stages. When the flowers and leaves change color, the stems and fruit are cut off. The stems are then hung out to dry. When the plant parts are dry, the bunches are gently squeezed so that the seeds fall out. These seeds are ultimately used.
importance to health
Cumin was already considered a medicinal plant in ancient Egypt. However, its positive effects on health have not yet been scientifically substantiated. In folk medicine, cumin is used for problems of the gastrointestinal tract . It has an antispasmodic and digestive effect. Therefore, it can help with symptoms such as a feeling of fullness and diarrhea . As early as the Roman Empire, cumin was added to rich foods to make them easier to digest.
Furthermore, cumin stimulates the appetite and stimulates the metabolism. The essential oils contained have a positive effect against fungi and bacteria . They prevent the microorganisms from further growth and can thus make a contribution to disease control. When breastfeeding, cumin is said to have a milk-boosting power. It is also said to provide relief from headaches and toothaches .
Other medical indications include coughs , respiratory diseases and menstrual problems . In Ayurvedic medicine, cumin is considered a blood purifier. It is said to have a positive effect on liver and kidney activity .
Ingredients & nutritional values
Cumin contains vitamins from the B group as well as vitamin A and beta-carotene. Minerals such as calcium, magnesium and phosphorus are other ingredients. Cumin also contains trace elements such as iron, copper and manganese.
| Calories and nutrients (per 100g) | ||
| kilocalories/kilojoules | 408 kcal/ 1708 kj | |
| protein | 17,80 g | |
| carbohydrates | 34,00 g | |
| Fett | 22,27 g | |
| Water | 7,51 g | |
| fiber | 10,50 g | |
| beta-carotene | 760 µg | |
| Vitamin B3 | 3600 µg | |
intolerances
Food intolerances are hypersensitive reactions of the human body to certain allergens. The allergen cumin refers to the umbelliferae genus.
In the case of hypersensitivity reactions to this spice, caution should also be exercised when consuming fennel , aniseed , dill , carrots , celeriac and fennel . Cumin is hidden in many spice mixtures. Therefore, when purchasing these products, attention should be paid to the exact ingredients in order to avoid unwanted physical reactions.
Shopping and kitchen tips
Cumin seeds can be purchased in many Arabic and Turkish stores. They should be stored dry and airtight. If cumin is bought in bags, the broken goods should be placed in other containers. Screw-on jars, for example, are suitable for this.
In order to develop a particularly intense aroma of cumin, it is advisable to lightly toast the seeds beforehand. Cumin seeds are available as whole grains or ready-made powder. The coarse grains can be ground up with a mortar. Depending on your preference, cumin can be processed finely or rather coarsely.
preparation tips
Cumin is a traditional spice used in Arabic, Indian, North African and Latin American cuisine. It goes well with falafel, Indian chutneys, couscous or chili con carne. It is also suitable for seasoning meat and fish dishes. The spice can also be added to vegetarian and vegan dishes. Cumin can be used universally and refines various purees, cereals, rice , pasta and vegetables.
Hello and welcome to my Health Guide & Encyclopedia! My name is Dorothy Farrar, and I'm the founder and main author of this platform.
My passion for health and wellness started at a young age when I became interested in the connection between the food we eat and the way we feel. This fascination led me to study nutrition and dietetics in college, where I learned about the importance of a balanced diet and the impact of various nutrients on the body.