Ajwain seeds, also known as carom seeds, are very beneficial to an individual’s overall health as even the seeds’ essential oil contains antioxidants, dietary fiber as well as compounds such as limonene, terpinene, thymol, and pinene. Ajwain seeds are also popular for their flavor– savory and a little bitter like anise seeds.
Let’s talk a bit more about the potential benefits of this seed.
Prevents Chronic Diseases
Certain antioxidants are present in Ajwain seeds, such as pinene and terpinene, are responsible for reducing oxidative stress in some parts of the body. Oxidative stress is often a result of the activities of free radicals and can cause the inflammation and mutation of otherwise, healthy cells. The implication of this is that it leads to chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, as well as autoimmune diseases. However, Ajwain seeds can play a major role in preventing these health conditions.
Aids Weight Loss
Ajwain seeds can stimulate appetite, contains laxative properties and accelerate the digestive process. When this happens, the body brings out the stored nutrients and curbs the excess accumulation of fat. These seeds can help to boost metabolism which, in turn, is effective in weight loss.
Boosts Immunity
The Ajwain seeds essential oils contain antiviral and antioxidant properties that help to boost the immune system. In fact, the limonene and thymol present in the seeds help to fight harmful pathogens and infections even before they occur.
Improves Digestion
Ajwain seeds are excellent for digestion, especially if consumed before or after meals. It is effective for improving the digestive health of the gut and induces the release of gastric juices. The seeds are also popular for wading off constipation, which is a leading cause of bloating and cramping.
Regulates Cholesterol Levels
With monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats in these seeds, you can maintain your cholesterol balance with regular consumption. The dietary fiber in Ajwain seeds will also help to scrape excess cholesterol, thus lowering your risk of atherosclerosis, heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular complications.
Treats Respiratory Problems
The active ingredient in carom seeds, thymol, has potent anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it an ideal solution for sore throats and other infections of the respiratory system. Crushing Ajwain seeds and then mixing them with water can be a quick and easy remedy to soothe your respiratory tract, treat coughs, and also promote the elimination of mucus and phlegm. It also helps prevent the condition of asthma.
Soothes Inflammation
The antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties of Ajwain seeds can help ease the discomfort and pain of arthritis, as well as other inflammatory conditions. Ranging from gout and psoriasis to joint pain or a recent injury, soaking the affected part of the body in water mixed with carom seeds can help reduce swelling.
Reduces Acidity
For generations, ajwain has been known to settle the stomach and reduce acidity in the gut, which can stop the excessive production of gas. Flatulence can be an embarrassing ailment, but consuming a handful of these seeds after a meal will show great results.
Treats Headaches
One of the most common uses of Ajwain seeds is in the prevention or treatment of headaches. In some cases, you don’t need to consume these seeds but simply crush them into a poultice and apply to the inflamed or affected area. In the case of migraines, when you apply the crushed seeds, your temples, it can provide rapid relief from the pain. The crushed seeds release thymol, which is an important component in reducing the pain.
Hair Health
For people who feel that their hair is turning gray a bit early, consuming carom seeds is a well-known traditional remedy. If you toss a few Ajwain seeds in a glass of warm water and drink it early in the morning, its high antioxidant and mineral content can help stimulate the health of the hair, keeping you looking young for years.
Prevent a Toothache
Ajwain seeds can help in easing toothache, by improving the overall gum and oral health. One can also inhale the fumes from burning these seeds, as this helps to give instant relief from a toothache.
Cleans Wounds
These seeds, having great germicide and fungicide properties can also be used for cleaning wounds, treating skin infections, and reducing the signs of marks or scars.
Skin Health
Carom seeds are beneficial in improving the overall skin health, by reducing the occurrence of boils, acne, and other skin eruptions. It also prevents acne scars and can be used in the treatment of eczema.
Prevents Kidney Stone
Ajwain seeds prevent the formation of kidney stones and thereby reducing the pain related to the condition.
Curbs Mosquito Bites
Mix mustard oil with carom seeds, apply it to pieces of cardboard and then place them in the corners of your house to prevent mosquito bites and attacks. This mixture also has a nice scent that can be felt and enjoyed in the room. It can also reduce the risk of acquiring mosquito-borne illnesses, like malaria.
Reduces Pain Caused by Piles
Ajwain seeds powder has also been shown to be effective in reducing pain related to piles. It can be taken with buttermilk and rock salt.
Treats Cold
By promoting smooth mucus discharge, Ajwain seeds prevent nasal blockage and reduce the chances of cold and cough. This also promotes respiratory health and prevents the risk of conditions like asthma, influenza, and bronchitis.
