Cumin Seed whole organic

Also known as- Cuminum cyminum, Should not be confused with black cumin, the Chinese medicinal herb, or sweet cumin, better known as fennel, or caraway.

Introduction

Cumin is the seed of a small plant in the carrot family. Pungent, sharp, and slightly sweet, the greenish brown powder of this herb is an essential ingredient in Mexican cuisine.

Constituents

Cumin contains 2.5 to 4% essential oil. In the essential oil, cumin aldehyde (p-isopropyl-benzaldehyde , 25 to 35%) is dominant, but there are also perilla aldehyde, cumin alcohol, a- and b-pinene (21%), dipentene, p-cymene and b-phellandrene.
In toasted cumin fruits, a large number of pyrazines are known to serve as flavor compounds. Alkyl derivatives (particularly, 2,5- and 2,6-dimethyl pyrazine), 2-alkoxy-3-alkylpyrazines seem to be the key compounds (2-ethoxy-3-isopropyl pyrazine, 2-methoxy-3-sec-butyl pyrazine, 2-methoxy-3-methyl pyrazine). Also a sulfur compound, 2-methylthio-3-isopropyl pyrazine, was found. These compounds are also found in toasted (but not fresh) fennel or coriander seed.

Parts Used

The fruits ("seeds"), whole or ground, fresh or toasted.

Typical Preparations

Most often used in cooking, can be added to other herbs in teas, tinctures, or encapsulations.

Summary

In traditional herbal medicine, cumin is used as a diuretic and to treat stomach upset and flatulence. It stimulates menstruation, and also can be added to gargles to treat laryngitis. Poultices of cumin are used to treat swellings of the breasts or testicles. In Ayurvedic medicine, cumin with ghee is smoked to relieve hiccups.

Precautions

Ground cumin should be kept in an air-tight container. Add to cooking in moderation; the pungency of cumin can overwhelm other flavors in a dish. Be forewarned that cumin stimulates the appetite and may increase lactation in nursing mothers.

 

For educational purposes only
This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Return to Cumin Seed whole