8 Health Benefits of Ajwain (Carom Seeds)

Ajwain, native to Egypt, grows throughout India, Asia, and Europe. It offers numerous health benefits, including lower inflammation, improved heart health, and better digestion.

Also known as ajwain, bishop’s weed, jain, yamini, or carom seeds, ajwain is a plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It has two species names: Trachyspermum ammi and Carum copticum.

Ajwain, an annual herb, has white flowers resembling lace umbrellas. It thrives in hot, dry areas and produces a small fruit called a schizocarp, which ripens into single seeds.

Ajwain has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine to treat digestive and lung issues. Today, it is available as a spice, liquid extract, powder supplement, and essential oil.

Health benefits of ajwain

Ajwain offers several health benefits based on early studies.

Source of nutrients

Ajwain fruit and seeds are rich in carbohydrates, fiber, protein, fat, vitamins (including B vitamins), and minerals (such as iron, calcium, and phosphorus).

Rich in polyphenols

Ajwain contains polyphenols, including saponins, glycosides, flavonoids, and phenols. These plant chemicals have antioxidant activity, which can help protect against heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers.

Antimicrobial

Ajwain has antiparasitic and antifungal activity, which can help with intestinal worms and parasites. It also blocks the growth of various fungi.

Might ease coughs and colds

Ajwain essential oil has antitussive properties, meaning it can help reduce coughing.

Might lower inflammation

Ajwain extracts have shown potential in lowering swelling and inflammation by blocking inflammation-causing chemicals and increasing the release of GABA.

Might improve heart health

Ajwain extract can lower blood levels of fat, lipids, and triglycerides, while improving cholesterol levels.

Might help with bladder stones

Ajwain has shown promise in treating urinary stones, particularly calcium oxalate and uric acid stones.

Might help digestion

Ajwain seeds stimulate digestion, increase digestive enzyme activity and bile secretion, and have anti-ulcer activity.

Risks of ajwain

Ajwain is generally safe as a spice and food additive. However, precautions should be taken during pregnancy. Avoid ajwain tinctures and supplements during this time.

Skin irritation

Ajwain essential oil can cause skin irritation. Dilute it properly before applying it to the skin.

When to use ajwain

Ajwain is commonly used in curry and other dishes. Supplements, tinctures, and essential oils are also available. Consult your doctor before taking ajwain supplements.

QUESTION

Acta Veterinaria Brno: "Antihyperlipidaemic Efficacy of Trachyspermum ammi in Albino Rabbits."

BioMed Research International: "Carum copticum L.: A Herbal Medicine with Various Pharmacological Effects."

Cedars Sinai: "Bladder Stones."

Colorado State University: "What are Polyphenols? Another Great Reason to Eat Fruits and Veggies."

Journal of Ethnopharmacology: "Antitussive effect of Carum copticum in guinea pigs."

Journal of Pharmacy & BioAllied Sciences: "Evaluation and Comparison of Trachyspermum ammi Seed Extract for Its Anti-inflammatory Effect."

Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology: "Effects of Carvacrol, Thymol and essential oils containing such monoterpenes on wound healing: a systematic review."

Pharmaceuticals: "A Design of Experiment (DoE) Approach to Model the Yield and Chemical Composition of Ajowan (Trachyspermum ammi L.) Essential Oil Obtained by Microwave-Assisted Extraction."

Pharmacognosy Review: "Trachyspermum ammi."

Tisserand Institute: "A Beginner’s Guide to Essential Oils Part 2: How to Use Essential Oils."

Tisserand Institute: "A Beginner’s Guide to Essential Oils Part 2: How to Use Essential Oils."